Appalachian Mountain Club Membership Enables Access To Fire Island Cabin

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The Appalachian Mountain Club allows members access to a 24-person cabin on Fire Island during the summer, so long as they pull their weight with chores. NY1's Valarie D'Elia filed the following report.

It's not too late to score a house share on Fire Island this summer.

One of the perks of becoming a member of the Appalachian Mountain Club includes rights to a Fire Island cabin that sleeps 24 people in two rooms full of bunk beds.

"You do not feel anywhere near NY when you are out here," said Laurie Finch, a volunteer with the club. "It's a different space. You feel a real peace."

The no-frills cabin is situated on a one-acre plot on Great South Bay, a gift left it in trust by a former member.

Located in the town of Atlantique, the cabin is a half hour by ferry from Bay Shore, Long Island.

While the weekends are already booked up for the summer, it's easier to reserve a bunk during the middle of the week. It's possible to visit just for the day on any day except the Fourth of July. But whenever you visit, expect to pitch in.

"If you come on the weekends you do kitchen chores, prep or cleanup, you do a house chore, sweeping up the bunk room, sweeping out the decks," Finch says. "If you come weekdays, then you sign up for a single chore, a household chore."

In addition to the AMC membership fee, there is an extra charge of between $40 and $160 depending on when you stay. Guests of members are also allowed for an extra fee.

Summer stays are limited to one booking period a month. Kids ages six and older are welcome midweek and on designated family weekends.

The New York-New Jersey chapter of the AMC is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and is the founding chapter of 12 others that extend from Maine to Virginia.

Some of the other activities available within easy reach of New York city include local hikes and softball games.

To find out more info about the Appalachian Mountain Club you can log on to www.amc-ny.org.

As is common practice in the travel industry, Travel With Val often receives complimentary travel or reduced "media" rates at hotels, resorts and attractions, including those that may be featured in these reports. Such consideration is not taken in exchange for any express or implied promise or understanding of any nature, particularly regarding the content of these reports. These reports only feature travel providers personally recommended by Valarie D’Elia in the exercise of her independent editorial judgment, and do not represent the endorsement of Time Warner Cable or any third party.