It is thought the first building was erected in 1853, serving as a base for volunteer life savers who would walk/patrol the beach and observe ships in distress.

For some years later, it stood unused until Robert Moses negotiated with the federal government to include it in his Long Island Parks Region.

[3] The terms of this transfer are still being explored,[citation needed] though it appears, the parties agreed that this land would be forever wild and available to all residents for their wholesome recreation.

Due to its undeveloped nature, visitors are required to haul out what they bring in with them, and there is no bathroom or garbage cans.

[4] The park also serves as a wildlife reserve, aiming to preserve habitat for the piping plover and the sea beach amaranth.