i ~cannot~ believe you got away with this. i would've thought that the NYPD or Coast Guard would've given you a rude awakening at 2 am. impressed that this worked.
@@guaporeturns9472 I would say be careful when you're doing something like that.. I have been camping for years and I usually pick myself out a clean place
@@KarenLee-bs5ms Same here… but this is a little different kind of camping. Seems he does it just to make a video and be unique , not necessarily to have a nice , relaxing camping trip. I would never camp there but it’s cool if he wants to. I’d rather hike up to a high mountain lake in a roadless area and catch trout for dinner
When I was a younger man, decades ago, I would do these kinds of trips up and down the Missouri River. I miss those days deeply. Thank you for your virtual water trips. They've ignited many memories of my past.
Nothing like the freedom of getting on the water and having a getaway whether it's for a night or a week... glad I could help bring back some memories for you. I'm sure you had some incredible adventures! Thanks so much for watching
@@madibrown9609I’m from missouri and i always saw boats/people in the Mississippi River. It’s just kinda gross so people usually don’t want to go in that river, when they can choose a nicer cleaner deeper river. Maybe it’s illegal in New Orleans tho you’d have to check the specifics
@@madibrown9609he could be talking about the meramec river in missouri tho, that’s another popular river that a lot of people kayak in, but again nowadays it’s super gross. Even dirtier than the Mississippi
Steve Wallis is like “oh that security guard is really close, I hope he doesn’t see me” *pans to guard 200m away*. You set up a camp in direct view of literally thousands of apartments and office buildings 😂
I've camped all over N America, and 99.9% of the time it's one night stands...so to speak. The reason is, the rest of the day I'm riding my motorcycle, and I don't stop until after dark. I camp just to sleep, so my tent is my bedroom. Usually at State Parks, sometimes free sites, like parking lots at stock car tracks, which I attend. Stay safe out there.
Sounds like a real adventurous lifestyle!! I do something similar, but less hardcore (camper van). Do you ever go off roading on BLM land? Having a dual sport and doing what you're doing sounds like a ton of fun. Thanks for watching!
@@WesWherever It's been fun. I've stayed at BLM sites, but in my Ford Ranger. If I knew about about Adventure motorcycles back when I started (if they had them), I probably would be doing that now, but that was 47 years ago. I've really thought about still trying it, but the bones aren't what they used to be.
Paddling against changing tides and currents in ocean waterways is a killer workout at best and a nightmare of frustration at worst well done! I was wondering why you were so keen to go but someone mentioned the coast guard & I realized. Still you got a free night in NYC with a view that literally no one else has, I just wonder how many people spotted you and were like wtf
Yeah it was a killer workout for sure!! Needless to say I was a little sore the next day, but I enjoy that part. I did see people from boats looking my way, and I can only imagine some people had to have seen from the high rises! Thanks for watching!
@firebry2020 Thanks, I will have to research that! An idea I've had for awhile now is to sleep up in a tree canopy, which of course I will need a hammock for (or maybe even one of those beds climbers use on the sides of cliffs)
Hahaha thanks Nicole! Yeah there was no way I was gonna camp in NYC without having pizza!! Next time I'll have a bagel for breakfast 😋 I gotta try chopped cheese too
This camp was f'ing EPIC! Over 8 million people and you may have been the first to do that. The first of ANYTHING in that city is a damn miracle. Well played sir.
I know, they were so sweet! And I really appreciated their help too, no way I could carry the loaded kayak myself haha. Thanks again for watching, Amy!!
I've been working on improving my response to anxiety over the last couple of years, and I'm finally making some significant improvements. One of my triggering anxieties is/was leaving home and sleeping someplace different or unknown. Watching stealth camping videos has helped calm my nerves, but your videos, in particular, have really pushed me. I don't think I'm ready to paddle to a rocky "island" in the East River, but you inspire me to go outside my comfort zone. Thanks for these entertaining and inspiring videos, Wes!
What ever you do, do not camp on an island full of birds. The smell will destroy your adventures for a life time. I have no idea how Wes could have eaten that pizza. I am starting to get flash backs.
That is so inspiring to hear, Biff. So glad I can contribute to help you overcome that in any way! I have struggled with anxiety since my childhood and making these has really helped me come out of my shell. Means so much to hear the same is true with you, and hopefully others. Let's keep it pushing!! 💪
@@biffbouse I think life in America creates anxiety and panic. I live in Liechtenstein 🇱🇮 a small country in Europe /Monaco It’s peaceful and I don’t know a single person who is anxious. It makes me feel slightly uncomfortable seeing how life has unraveled in your countries.
Also, there is the Roosevelt Island Tramway from Manhattan and then cruise down to U Thant Island, instead of paddling against the tide. Your path was more exciting! Can’t imagine the smell.
Depression is a state of mind. All Thoughts, are All Lies, All the Time. It’s a spiritual issue this no medicine or therapy will cure. Listen to Jesse Lee Peterson.
Looked like a fun trip. Manhattan is not the kind of place i think of when i think about a solo kayaking campout trip. Goes to show you, even in the busiest most populated places, you can still find a tiny place of peace and solitude. Great video and ill definitely subscribe.
Wes, Thank you so much for taking us along to the tine island in the east river...The views at various times are so wonderful and ones we would have never seen with out your camping trip to the island! THANK YOU again and be safe
You are doing stuff that many of us, your subscribers , would always like to do. I'm glad you're enjoying it. I'm a doctor here in Brazil and I have very little time to do outdoor activities. Anyway, I am very enthusiastic about camping, stealth camping, remote camping. Cheers man.
Why would you put into the water downwind of your destination, with the tide running against you? Wouldn’t it have made much more sense to put in upwind of the island?
Was hard to find a spot to leave my vehicle parked safely overnight, so I had to make it happen from here. Also, I actually prefer going against a reasonable amount of wind/tide for the workout! But yes if you want it easy, then of course it's better to put in upcurrent/upwind.
@@sonnylambert4893 Given that he was probably leaving the island about twelve hours later, the tide would have been running against him on his return trip as well. The direction of the wind could have been with him, or against him.
@@WesWherever this was probably one of the best places for you to sleep for your situation paddling the boat way to go. I saw a video that this is restricted 🚫 island 🏝️
Great adventure! My hero, John A. Keel lived in NYC until his death in 2009. He was a great researcher/writer who dealt with the paranormal. He wrote "The Mothman Prophecies" and many other fine books. He lived on the upper west side of NYC.
Why he is not staying on the island longer is probably because he did get permission to camp overnight, it is considered a sanctuary for migrating birds.
@@hgodtx It was an exciting video. Im so glad it all worked out for him. I dont advise anyone else doing this because he traveled in a kayak in the middle of shipping lanes making it very dangerous and going against the tides and whirlpools. The island is prohibited from the public. It is also an environmental area because of nesting birds. If he was caught he would have been issued a ticket or pay fines or community service.
Awesome video and great view! I love the idea of short no-hassle camping trips like this. You didn't have to pack a car with tons of gear and spend a long time setting everything up once you finally got to camp. You and Small Plots with Kevin (not to mention Camping with Steve) inspired me to get out and start small camps like this. It satisfies the itch to camp and can be done during any day of the week.
Yeah, I love how quick & simple (yet fulfilling) camping trips can be. Some people think you have to drive hours away and spend a whole weekend out to camp, but you really don't have to. Thanks Justin, glad you enjoyed!!
Hi Wes, nice adventure. I've paddled all the NYC waters, but I don't think I have the stomach to camp around rat carcasses. You might look into bike-rafting, with a packraft and bike, especially a folding bike. I used to bike down to Coney Island, put in, paddle under the Verrazzano, take out in Red Hook, and bike home. The raft rolls down to the size of a large tent and fits on a bike rack. And the bike, especially a folding bike, sits nicely atop the raft. Keep adventuring. Look forward to your next video.
That sounds like a such a dynamic way to camp with a lot of capability! I do actually have a Brompton folding bike already, so I guess I'm just a packraft away! My Sea Eagles folds down suitcase-sized, but tent-sized sounds way better for bikepacking, of course. I left my bike back on the west coast, so now I have something to look forward to!! Thanks for the cool idea and thanks for watching 🙏
Reminds me of the time l spent in a park that overlooks the Hudson River. West Point was right across from me. I climbed up a hill and slept on a ledge in the open and watched the boats go up and down the river. It was pretty cool! Stealth camping is awesome.
I'll suggest Pollepel Island in the Hudson River. It has the ruins of a faux castle, built by the arms dealer Bannerman. I paddled to it several times in the 1980's, and explored it. That would be an interesting one to camp on I think, and spooky. I never spent the night, myself, and I'm not sure if others have.
@@RainyMcGthe island that hosts a movie theater and has guided tours is "snake infested" and "precarious beyond belief" for some reason i just don't really believe you at all
I'm from the Steve Wallis side as well, first time seeing this and really like this episode. I just last week finished a 40 day adventure which took me up to northwest Ontario, from down near Toronto. Stealth camping frequently, I had one nice realization one day; that the big rock cutaways on the highway, when they present a ramp, are natural camping access spots. You just have to look for the right taper of the rock mass, and there's your entrance. Once up, there are many possibilities for invisibility and great views. Happy adventures mate
Sounds like an incredible adventure!! I'm a bit jealous, as most of my adventures are single overnighters. I am thinking of doing a multi-day trip on some islands up in Maine though 🤔 That's a great insight about using the rock cutouts to access some potential spots!! I will have to keep that in mind... it gives me something else to look out for! Appreciate you watching and commenting 👊
The water is not that bad. There is so much current that it is about as safe as ocean water. To minimize current, hug the shore when going against the current. There are a few groups that kayak around Manhattan, especially Yonkers YPRC. A great site to see how to kayak around NYC is Wind Against Current. Look at NOAA for tide/current tables. Well done!
@@RMWeinberg Born and raised in NY, I was warned not to enter those waters. But the advice you just gave is pretty good. Then again you do the kayaking and all I do is look. lol
@@RMWeinberg ehhh.... years ago, my lifeguard boyfriend jumped in the East River to save someone who was drowning. The NYPD , ambulance etc etc.. came and did their thing and they took my BF to the hospital and the doctors stuck him in a special shower that drenched him in disinfectants and he had to get vaccines too. Then the doctors made him come back a week or two later for checkups.
@@WesWherever I think it is safer to walk it down the sidewalk where pedestrians are at less risk of an accident. That bike path in particular gets a ton of traffic with a lot of unpredictable riders due to speed differences of tourists on mechanical bikes and delivery workers on electric bikes, and everything in between. I can tell it wasn't rush hour and I can appreciate you being considerate about how much space you would take up on the sidewalk, but you'll find bikers in NY are extremely protective of the few bike lanes they give us as they are constantly blocked by anything from ubers and delivery trucks, to cops cars and apparently kayaks. All this aside, I loved the vid and what you had to show me about the place I've lived for my entire adult life. Thank you.
We enjoy watching your one night adventures, one night is plenty of time to explore, and like you said make some excellent memories. Looking forward to your next adventure!
Only trouble i have with camping is carrying 20 cans of beer per night. Basically im limmited to whererver i can take a wheelbarrow, which is a good few places in cornwall.
the people waving at you were actually asking if you were okay :) a big O formed with both arms above the head is common fairly amongst divers to check on someone's wellbeing from a distance
There are a bunch of cool uninhabited islands in the lower Colombia river you should check out. From Biggs Jct. down to the mouth where it dumps into the Pacific.. lots of cool islands
So cool, I bet I could make a whole epic weeklong trip riding it out to the ocean or something... sounds like a dream! I will be heading through the PNW, so I will look into it 🔎 Thanks again for watching, Guapo
I lived in FRoosevelt Island in the 1980s and used to spend time on the south end of the island. I always wanted to go to that little island! Very cool accomplishment!
So cool, I bet you could really appreciate this having been a local and being so familiar with this little island! Thanks so much for watching and sharing your connection
That is probably one of the most safest places to camp or sleep in New York City and you got all pretty beautiful lights and nighttime but what a beautiful view❤
As soon as I saw the video thumbnail I wondered, "How did Wes obtain permission to visit NYC's tiniest island when it's not allowed?" Be cautious about posting this video like Travis Pastrana was found guilty as a result of filming himself doing the illegal jump and abandonment of his airplane.
@@zorinlynx Wes's video is insightful because it gives a real experience without sensationalism, but what if people start making it a regular place to visit? What if people turn it into "their" shelter to overtake with squatters rights and it takes years to resolve the problem and throw them out? A year or two ago I saw a UK gent document a "seemingly-abandoned" 19th century gothic stone mini chapel in a graveyard with a crypt below. Within a few months, thieves discovered it and tore off some of the beautiful tile floors. Urban explorers should never disclose the location or any GPS details of places they explore.
Well camping on a island is NOTHING compared to intentionally crashing (and then resistinf the investigation of the crash of) your aeroplane which is a severe FAA violation
Back in the late 70s a couple of my buddies rode a rubber raft from the Hoboken ferry terminal to the World Trade Center, where they proceeded to place the raft in the fountain between the twin towers. Nobody cared. Nobody noticed we even called local news teams.
Manhattan and a larger area was our colony for a while. We sent an English captain to find a passage to Asia. Henry Hudson was his name. Halve Maen was the name of the ship. He first sailed in the direction of Nova Zemla, turned around and sailed to your country. Have a nice day.
Just earlier I was (again) looking at greater New York on Google Maps and found this exact little island and thought that it would be cool to stay there overnight. Thanks Wes, now I know how it is without having to jump on a plane to fly to the other side of the world.
A shallow draft kayak helps, a little. But you were near, just south of, one of the most dangerous clusters of currents on the East Coast, Hell Gate, the confluence of the East River, The Harlem River and Long Island Sound. Hell Gate has sunk tourist boats and tugs, back before they added some artificial shoaling. But that is what makes the whole effort way cool. Well done!
@@patrickheath5011 It is at Charlotte Beach in Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Brooklyn. There is also the “Hunter’s Point South kayak ramp” near 2nd St & 56th Ave in Queens. Have fun and be safe!!
Hi Patrick, sorry if my reply is finding you too late, just now seeing your message. I parked on Kent Ave between 12th & 13th St. It was free street parking, but it can fill up when it gets busy.
@@WesWherever No problem. Thanks for getting back to me. I’m going to work my way up there from Florida tomorrow. I’m going to check out your other videos for more ideas (I have to watch the video from the small island in RI near all the wealthy homes too.) They’re all great. Keep them coming.
To those detractors of landing, and coastguard checks, the island would appear to display no “No Landing” signs at all. If the island was that important for wildlife (or even the security of the UN!) signs would have been erected.
Glad to see you having fun. I used to canoe down streams with my tent, sleeping gear and a bicycle chained down in case I flipped. Finally upon reaching final destination I'd chain lock my canoe, assemble the bike, and pedal all the way back to my truck. Then... go back and get the boat. Such freedom!
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
The safest place to sleep in the open in NYC
So Long as A Ship or Boat, Doesn't Run Aground, Slept Better not thinking This😮
As long as no flood
@@KappetanCope harder. NYC is over. Austin and Miami are what New York used to be.
@@MakerInMotionyou don’t get out much do you?
@@kylejohn44 When I do get out, my local stores don't have to lock everything behind plexiglass.
i ~cannot~ believe you got away with this. i would've thought that the NYPD or Coast Guard would've given you a rude awakening at 2 am. impressed that this worked.
@@guyfawkes9789 Ah yes the Coast Guard worries about people coming by water from South America to New York. They are very close together.
@@guyfawkes9789 Scooter gangs from Venezuela robbing people seem to be keeping them busy at the moment. Not sure if they all have brown skin though.
@@owenwillard5409yeah, they have other small fry to harass on dry land.
@@owenwillard5409 No, they really don't
@@daggers101 WTF does that mean?
Those innocent children asking you if you needed help oh so beautiful😂😂 nice video
How do you know they are innocent?
@@guaporeturns9472 well I'm hoping they are innocent.. cool video not too sure if I would want to do that with all that bird poop around..
@@KarenLee-bs5ms Just clowning.. they are adorable… and yeah , bird poop combined with rat and fish carcasses sounds kinda unhealthy
@@guaporeturns9472 I would say be careful when you're doing something like that.. I have been camping for years and I usually pick myself out a clean place
@@KarenLee-bs5ms Same here… but this is a little different kind of camping. Seems he does it just to make a video and be unique , not necessarily to have a nice , relaxing camping trip. I would never camp there but it’s cool if he wants to.
I’d rather hike up to a high mountain lake in a roadless area and catch trout for dinner
Sir, with that location, view and all around scenery, you’ve topped every RUclips “stealth”camping I’ve ever scene! Great job!
Appreciate that bro... and go Giants!!
@@WesWherever 👍⚾️👍!
No way dude! I can't believe you got away with this! I've always loved how the birds made it THEIR island. I'm suprised they were so quiet.
I live to see another day 😉 Thanks for watching!!
Yeah, I would’ve thought the birds would’ve given him a hard time
@@pyootchnich him having to sleep in their ps would be tuff enough . good to bring hand sanitizer! view was great!
It's a technically a protected sanctuary for birds.
@jimmy22334 Yeah that's why I'm suprised no police or coast guard boats showed up. It's not technically legal to go to this island.
Those cormorants are like wtf is this dude doing here
Lol they eventually accepted me into their flock 🙏 They were great neighbors
you never see them on any borough. I lived in NY for 46 years and this is the first time I've seen them in NY.
@@AT-sd9qq Just like me, They wouldn't be caught dead in NYC.
When I was a younger man, decades ago, I would do these kinds of trips up and down the Missouri River. I miss those days deeply. Thank you for your virtual water trips. They've ignited many memories of my past.
Nothing like the freedom of getting on the water and having a getaway whether it's for a night or a week... glad I could help bring back some memories for you. I'm sure you had some incredible adventures! Thanks so much for watching
write a few down in story form b4 theyre lost
Wait you can kayak up and down the Mississippi??? Serious question. I live in New Orleans and really wanna do this without getting in trouble
@@madibrown9609I’m from missouri and i always saw boats/people in the Mississippi River. It’s just kinda gross so people usually don’t want to go in that river, when they can choose a nicer cleaner deeper river. Maybe it’s illegal in New Orleans tho you’d have to check the specifics
@@madibrown9609he could be talking about the meramec river in missouri tho, that’s another popular river that a lot of people kayak in, but again nowadays it’s super gross. Even dirtier than the Mississippi
Steve Wallis is like “oh that security guard is really close, I hope he doesn’t see me” *pans to guard 200m away*. You set up a camp in direct view of literally thousands of apartments and office buildings 😂
Lol ...legit comment!!!
Lol I'm a shameless camper!! And gotta love Steve, he is one of my greatest inspirations 💙
😂😂😂 you had me cracking but steve is in another country. i'd like to see if he visits nyc just to stealth camping though.
How dare you take Steve's name in vain????? STEVE IS THE MAN RESPECT STEVE
Steve is the best of the best. Meanwhile this guy is camping in the middle of untreated sewage.
I like the sentiment that it doesnt take much time to have a trip you will never forget. So true.
Now that the tent is set up, let’s do a hike around the island
*15 seconds later* “Well, I’m back”
Like the MTV cribs jail edition lol,just spin in a circle, that's it.
😂😂
I've camped all over N America, and 99.9% of the time it's one night stands...so to speak. The reason is, the rest of the day I'm riding my motorcycle, and I don't stop until after dark. I camp just to sleep, so my tent is my bedroom. Usually at State Parks, sometimes free sites, like parking lots at stock car tracks, which I attend. Stay safe out there.
Sounds like a real adventurous lifestyle!! I do something similar, but less hardcore (camper van). Do you ever go off roading on BLM land? Having a dual sport and doing what you're doing sounds like a ton of fun. Thanks for watching!
@@WesWherever It's been fun. I've stayed at BLM sites, but in my Ford Ranger. If I knew about about Adventure motorcycles back when I started (if they had them), I probably would be doing that now, but that was 47 years ago. I've really thought about still trying it, but the bones aren't what they used to be.
@@stevegabbert9626 so many homeless people in America. I hope you get a permanent shelter one day ♥️
@@atmakali9599 My camping was just on motorcycle trips, I've always had a roof over my head.
Reno Raines?? is it you??
Having a small island all to yourself, eating ny pizza, and having beautiful views of the skyline. Sounds like a dream
Camping on an island in the middle of a huge city....how cool is that
Those kids really made me smile, pure souls
True....the world needs more souls like that!! DD
Very rare for a miserable place like NY. Nice to see
7:36 That Skyline Princess boat looks VERY familiar. :) And yes, they had an awesome time!
Hahaha sweet, I shazamed Memories - Frankey & Sandrino and now I listen to it all the time!
Paddling against changing tides and currents in ocean waterways is a killer workout at best and a nightmare of frustration at worst well done! I was wondering why you were so keen to go but someone mentioned the coast guard & I realized. Still you got a free night in NYC with a view that literally no one else has, I just wonder how many people spotted you and were like wtf
Yeah it was a killer workout for sure!! Needless to say I was a little sore the next day, but I enjoy that part. I did see people from boats looking my way, and I can only imagine some people had to have seen from the high rises! Thanks for watching!
@@WesWherever I'm wondering so you could start from the opposite side from the island and swim with the water flow?
@@elorenelorenelorenelorenelorenNo. Don’t swim there.
I live in NYC thats a thought tide small boat can have problems
@@SalyLuz-hc6heKramer did
This is the perfect example of when a hammock is a superior equipment.
I really need to get one! Do you have a particular brand/type would you recommend?
@@WesWherever Kammock with a Zenbivy bedding/quilt system!
@firebry2020 Thanks, I will have to research that! An idea I've had for awhile now is to sleep up in a tree canopy, which of course I will need a hammock for (or maybe even one of those beds climbers use on the sides of cliffs)
Yeap
@@WesWhereverit’s expensive but the Amok hammocks - Draumer I think. Appears to have it figured out as far as hammock camping.
When you took that whole pizza out of the dry bag 😂😂😂😂
I subscribed.
Hahaha thanks Nicole! Yeah there was no way I was gonna camp in NYC without having pizza!! Next time I'll have a bagel for breakfast 😋 I gotta try chopped cheese too
the pizza looked bereft of tomato sauce, dry, and pepperoni contains known carcinagens. if the boxtop isnt wet and red, not enuff sause.
I grew up around a mile from that pizzeria, and there's no way I would ever let a drop of East River water touch any part of my body lol 😃
4:04 lol I could recognize the hand motions for “HOT TO GO!” anywhere
I was just thinking that! The very quick O G O gave it away
Ah yes I too was coming to comment this. 😂
Very much this,
This camp was f'ing EPIC! Over 8 million people and you may have been the first to do that. The first of ANYTHING in that city is a damn miracle. Well played sir.
Next person to do it will be there with 10 others, attract attention, and ruin it.
No where near the first. Used to do it all the time. Just no videos then. We did things to do them, not show off.
The last Red Owl grocery store in the world is in Green Bay. I go there almost every day. Run by two brothers.
there's probably a content creator going there a few times per week
Aww the kids helping you push the kayak into the ocean was too cute 😊
I know, they were so sweet! And I really appreciated their help too, no way I could carry the loaded kayak myself haha. Thanks again for watching, Amy!!
The sped up kayaking footage reminds me of old Sega genesis racing games where the 2-D backdrop or skyline never gets closer
I've been working on improving my response to anxiety over the last couple of years, and I'm finally making some significant improvements. One of my triggering anxieties is/was leaving home and sleeping someplace different or unknown. Watching stealth camping videos has helped calm my nerves, but your videos, in particular, have really pushed me. I don't think I'm ready to paddle to a rocky "island" in the East River, but you inspire me to go outside my comfort zone. Thanks for these entertaining and inspiring videos, Wes!
What ever you do, do not camp on an island full of birds. The smell will destroy your adventures for a life time. I have no idea how Wes could have eaten that pizza. I am starting to get flash backs.
That is so inspiring to hear, Biff. So glad I can contribute to help you overcome that in any way! I have struggled with anxiety since my childhood and making these has really helped me come out of my shell. Means so much to hear the same is true with you, and hopefully others. Let's keep it pushing!! 💪
And get killed by some gangs seeing you on that private island.
@@biffbouse I think life in America creates anxiety and panic. I live in Liechtenstein 🇱🇮 a small country in Europe /Monaco It’s peaceful and I don’t know a single person who is anxious. It makes me feel slightly uncomfortable seeing how life has unraveled in your countries.
@@atmakali9599 bro atma Kali is a Hindu deity and why you have videos of north korea in your channel
Surprising authorities didn't chase you off.
The kids helping was so wholesome!
Very cool! I live on Roosevelt Island a can look out at that tiny island everyday. It certainly is a beautiful view!
“Those cormorants are much quieter birds than the one’s I’m used to sleeping around” gained you a subscriber my friend. Safe travels!
Also, there is the Roosevelt Island Tramway from Manhattan and then cruise down to U Thant Island, instead of paddling against the tide. Your path was more exciting! Can’t imagine the smell.
True, imagine me taking my kayak on the tramway lol. I'm glad my nose eventually got used to the smell 💀
Bird nesting sites can be pretty noxious.
Looks like you are on UThant island.
those kids asking to help so adorable, being raised right
What an amazing view of the nighttime Manhattan skyline! Looks like you had a blast, thanks for sharing!😎
It was indeed a ton of fun! Thanks for watching, Corinne!!
I'm usually not thinking much about sleeping out in cities BUT THIS CHANGED EVERYTHING! I would be SO into a night out in NYC now like this!
Dad grew up in Brooklyn in the 1930s and used to talk about going crabbing on the east river. Great video, thanks.
So cool, especially now that they've really cleaned the waterway up I would consider doing that myself! Thanks for watching
I went crabbing in Westchester Creek in the Bronx in the 90s
Last time I have heard about go crabbing from Russian movie called: Брат 2 (Brother 2). Timestamp 1:40:15 in that movie, if someone that curious.
I struggle with depression and i'm amazed at your zest for life. Be well.
Depression is a state of mind. All Thoughts, are All Lies, All the Time. It’s a spiritual issue this no medicine or therapy will cure. Listen to Jesse Lee Peterson.
Looked like a fun trip. Manhattan is not the kind of place i think of when i think about a solo kayaking campout trip. Goes to show you, even in the busiest most populated places, you can still find a tiny place of peace and solitude. Great video and ill definitely subscribe.
Wes, Thank you so much for taking us along to the tine island in the east river...The views at various times are so wonderful and ones we would have never seen with out your camping trip to the island! THANK YOU again and be safe
Thanks again for coming along, Dom! Glad to be able to share these adventures 🏕️ I will stay safe 👍👍
You are doing stuff that many of us, your subscribers , would always like to do. I'm glad you're enjoying it. I'm a doctor here in Brazil and I have very little time to do outdoor activities. Anyway, I am very enthusiastic about camping, stealth camping, remote camping. Cheers man.
So glad I can share it with those who have the same love for the outdoors & camping. Thanks again for watching, Luiz!!
Thanks!
I really appreciate that, Paul!! That is the very first super thanks I’ve ever received… very honored 🙏 Glad you are enjoying the content!
Watching the city run is beautiful. Im not a city person but you just have to admire it.
Metal Gear Solid 2 vibes when you opened up the tent in the morning. Gorgeous.
Why would you put into the water downwind of your destination, with the tide running against you? Wouldn’t it have made much more sense to put in upwind of the island?
Was hard to find a spot to leave my vehicle parked safely overnight, so I had to make it happen from here. Also, I actually prefer going against a reasonable amount of wind/tide for the workout! But yes if you want it easy, then of course it's better to put in upcurrent/upwind.
@@WesWherever It ain't an adventure if it's easy, is my motto.
And the paddle back was on the tide w the wind and EAY. That’s called a complete thought or FORWARD THINKING…
@@sonnylambert4893 Given that he was probably leaving the island about twelve hours later, the tide would have been running against him on his return trip as well. The direction of the wind could have been with him, or against him.
I think back in 68, the fantastic four camped there waiting for galactus. 🤪
Issue 75. Heh.
Seriously?! I gotta check that out, what a cool coincidence!!
@@WesWherever
To be fair, the name was never mentioned. Just a tiny island away from the populace.
@@WesWherever What do you have to do to camp out at North Brother island on Halloween?
You wanna go to north brother, island?@williamfulgham2010
Did you spot Kramer swimming?
🤣🤣that's stealth camping taken to the extreme with the whole of the lower east side & brooklyn looking over you lol
What a beautiful video. Those amazing views of the skyline at night were really something. Safe travels, friend.
Thanks Ed, glad you enjoyed!!
What a classic way to spend a night in New York.Great views and camp for free.And wake up to a nice sunrise as well.How very unique.Bravo.!
Appreciate it man, thanks for watching!!
@@WesWherever this was probably one of the best places for you to sleep for your situation paddling the boat way to go. I saw a video that this is restricted 🚫 island 🏝️
Those kids helping at the beginning were too cute.
Great adventure! My hero, John A. Keel lived in NYC until his death in 2009. He was a great researcher/writer who dealt with the paranormal. He wrote "The Mothman Prophecies" and many other fine books. He lived on the upper west side of NYC.
Why he is not staying on the island longer is probably because he did get permission to camp overnight, it is considered a sanctuary for migrating birds.
Holy cow you really camped there! You have incredible courage. Good thing you werent spotted by the Coast Guard! They do regular patrols.
I guess I was stealthy enough (or they were too busy on a Saturday night?) Either way, I'm glad it worked out 🙏 Thanks for watching!
Why is that a good thing? Are you saying it's illegal and they would have incarcerated him?
@@GuthrieSafari Do the Coast Guard concern themselves with such trivial matters?
@@hgodtx It was an exciting video. Im so glad it all worked out for him. I dont advise anyone else doing this because he traveled in a kayak in the middle of shipping lanes making it very dangerous and going against the tides and whirlpools. The island is prohibited from the public. It is also an environmental area because of nesting birds. If he was caught he would have been issued a ticket or pay fines or community service.
@@JG-tt4sz Yes, nothing is trivial to the Coast Guard.
Awesome video and great view! I love the idea of short no-hassle camping trips like this. You didn't have to pack a car with tons of gear and spend a long time setting everything up once you finally got to camp. You and Small Plots with Kevin (not to mention Camping with Steve) inspired me to get out and start small camps like this. It satisfies the itch to camp and can be done during any day of the week.
Yeah, I love how quick & simple (yet fulfilling) camping trips can be. Some people think you have to drive hours away and spend a whole weekend out to camp, but you really don't have to. Thanks Justin, glad you enjoyed!!
Hi Wes, nice adventure. I've paddled all the NYC waters, but I don't think I have the stomach to camp around rat carcasses. You might look into bike-rafting, with a packraft and bike, especially a folding bike. I used to bike down to Coney Island, put in, paddle under the Verrazzano, take out in Red Hook, and bike home. The raft rolls down to the size of a large tent and fits on a bike rack. And the bike, especially a folding bike, sits nicely atop the raft. Keep adventuring. Look forward to your next video.
That sounds like a such a dynamic way to camp with a lot of capability! I do actually have a Brompton folding bike already, so I guess I'm just a packraft away! My Sea Eagles folds down suitcase-sized, but tent-sized sounds way better for bikepacking, of course. I left my bike back on the west coast, so now I have something to look forward to!! Thanks for the cool idea and thanks for watching 🙏
Did you see Kramer while you were paddling out there?
Nnnnnn giddy up!
Reminds me of the time l spent in a park that overlooks the Hudson River. West Point was right across from me. I climbed up a hill and slept on a ledge in the open and watched the boats go up and down the river. It was pretty cool! Stealth camping is awesome.
I’m a pilot for Southwest I just over-flew New York and spotted the island from the air. It looked little for sure. Very cool!
Sweet man, and a fellow Wesley... represent!!
Wow. Amazing. What a great piece of New York history!
I'll suggest Pollepel Island in the Hudson River. It has the ruins of a faux castle, built by the arms dealer Bannerman. I paddled to it several times in the 1980's, and explored it. That would be an interesting one to camp on I think, and spooky. I never spent the night, myself, and I'm not sure if others have.
Such a cool idea, appreciate the tip!! 🙏
@@WesWherever- Bannerman's Island is snake infested and precarious beyond belief.
@@RainyMcGthe island that hosts a movie theater and has guided tours is "snake infested" and "precarious beyond belief"
for some reason i just don't really believe you at all
They also host expensive dinner parties on the island
nyc is my favorite vacation place. 4.45am and its bright out, i love that city dude!
Somewhere free to sleep in the heart of the city. Excellent. Peace and quiet I'd bet.
Very cool. It plays like the getaway fantasy I feel whenever going past a tiny Island. Have fun!
True, gotta seize the moment!! Glad you enjoyed brother!
I'm from the Steve Wallis side as well, first time seeing this and really like this episode.
I just last week finished a 40 day adventure which took me up to northwest Ontario, from down near Toronto.
Stealth camping frequently, I had one nice realization one day; that the big rock cutaways on the highway, when they present a ramp, are natural camping access spots. You just have to look for the right taper of the rock mass, and there's your entrance. Once up, there are many possibilities for invisibility and great views.
Happy adventures mate
Sounds like an incredible adventure!! I'm a bit jealous, as most of my adventures are single overnighters. I am thinking of doing a multi-day trip on some islands up in Maine though 🤔 That's a great insight about using the rock cutouts to access some potential spots!! I will have to keep that in mind... it gives me something else to look out for! Appreciate you watching and commenting 👊
So cozy. This is like a crazy dream.
I love stealth camping. This one was epic. Best places to camp are in plain sight just slightly concealed. I love under lit billboards!
True, that's a good idea!! Thanks for watching
Beautiful! Thank you for taking us along.
That tide is horrible. I'm surprised you're still alive. those waters are dangerous man. awesome video!
Was definitely a good workout!!
It is the stuff in the water that is dangerous. A tetanus shot would be a good investment.
The water is not that bad. There is so much current that it is about as safe as ocean water. To minimize current, hug the shore when going against the current. There are a few groups that kayak around Manhattan, especially Yonkers YPRC. A great site to see how to kayak around NYC is Wind Against Current. Look at NOAA for tide/current tables. Well done!
@@RMWeinberg Born and raised in NY, I was warned not to enter those waters. But the advice you just gave is pretty good. Then again you do the kayaking and all I do is look. lol
@@RMWeinberg ehhh.... years ago, my lifeguard boyfriend jumped in the East River to save someone who was drowning. The NYPD , ambulance etc etc.. came and did their thing and they took my BF to the hospital and the doctors stuck him in a special shower that drenched him in disinfectants and he had to get vaccines too. Then the doctors made him come back a week or two later for checkups.
when singling a kayak or canoe I prefer sitting aft. does it work better for you to be forward?
This kayak has 3 positions, and I prefer the one in the middle when solo - tends to feel more balance for me 👍
And you're folding the pizza like a true NY'er!
Got to!!
Yeah, because only Newyorkers do that :D Murricans... smh
@vankroj it’s common knowledge that New Yorkers fold pizza like that. He never said that they are the ONLY ones
@@vankrojnew york style pizza is made specifically to be folded. That is why he mentions it.
@@vankrojI got family in Connecticut but I know for a fact that NYC fold that pizza off of that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie in the 90s
It's called creativity!!! You are great!!! I am sending to my cousin the kayaker.
I walked my kayak down the bike lane this weekend...off the Mississippi though lol.
Really the best place to walk a kayak, much to the dismay of bikers though lol
@@WesWherever I think it is safer to walk it down the sidewalk where pedestrians are at less risk of an accident. That bike path in particular gets a ton of traffic with a lot of unpredictable riders due to speed differences of tourists on mechanical bikes and delivery workers on electric bikes, and everything in between. I can tell it wasn't rush hour and I can appreciate you being considerate about how much space you would take up on the sidewalk, but you'll find bikers in NY are extremely protective of the few bike lanes they give us as they are constantly blocked by anything from ubers and delivery trucks, to cops cars and apparently kayaks. All this aside, I loved the vid and what you had to show me about the place I've lived for my entire adult life. Thank you.
kids are the same wherever you go. How sweet.
i just realized that the people on the boat in 4:03 were dancing to Hot to go by Chappell Roan 😭😭
We enjoy watching your one night adventures, one night is plenty of time to explore, and like you said make some excellent memories. Looking forward to your next adventure!
Glad you have been enjoying!! Thanks again for watching 😊
Love it! Dinner with a view good stuff
Is that Belmont island, also known as Utant island?
Only trouble i have with camping is carrying 20 cans of beer per night.
Basically im limmited to whererver i can take a wheelbarrow, which is a good few places in cornwall.
Gotta bring the 9%ers to cut down on weight 😉
thanks for that perspective of Ney York I enjoyed it!
This is the type of stuff I want to see on RUclips! What an adventure!
Thanks Braydon, glad you appreciate the content :)
That view at sunrise is pretty awesome!
Dude… every time I look at the East River, I look at this tiny Island and think of this video. You’re an absolute legend for doing this. Hahaha! 😂
the people waving at you were actually asking if you were okay :) a big O formed with both arms above the head is common fairly amongst divers to check on someone's wellbeing from a distance
Bro I was watching the video drinking whiskey, and after I saw you eating that pizza, I had to order one hahahaha Coamo Puerto Rico Great video! 👍
Good choice my friend hahaha
There are a bunch of cool uninhabited islands in the lower Colombia river you should check out. From Biggs Jct. down to the mouth where it dumps into the Pacific.. lots of cool islands
So cool, I bet I could make a whole epic weeklong trip riding it out to the ocean or something... sounds like a dream! I will be heading through the PNW, so I will look into it 🔎 Thanks again for watching, Guapo
@@WesWherever Hell yeah! Let me know when you’re in the neighborhood , I’ll wave at ya as you paddle by. (White Salmon Washington)
I lived in FRoosevelt Island in the 1980s and used to spend time on the south end of the island. I always wanted to go to that little island! Very cool accomplishment!
So cool, I bet you could really appreciate this having been a local and being so familiar with this little island! Thanks so much for watching and sharing your connection
I've seen that island before, going by on the ferry. Pretty cool you stayed a night on it!
That is probably one of the most safest places to camp or sleep in New York City and you got all pretty beautiful lights and nighttime but what a beautiful view❤
love the city night views from that little island
Right! They were beautiful!!
As soon as I saw the video thumbnail I wondered, "How did Wes obtain permission to visit NYC's tiniest island when it's not allowed?" Be cautious about posting this video like Travis Pastrana was found guilty as a result of filming himself doing the illegal jump and abandonment of his airplane.
Thanks man, appreciate your concern and words of caution!
Is it actually illegal to camp there? I figure as long as you're not bothering anybody nobody should really care, right?
@@zorinlynx Wes's video is insightful because it gives a real experience without sensationalism, but what if people start making it a regular place to visit? What if people turn it into "their" shelter to overtake with squatters rights and it takes years to resolve the problem and throw them out? A year or two ago I saw a UK gent document a "seemingly-abandoned" 19th century gothic stone mini chapel in a graveyard with a crypt below. Within a few months, thieves discovered it and tore off some of the beautiful tile floors. Urban explorers should never disclose the location or any GPS details of places they explore.
Well camping on a island is NOTHING compared to intentionally crashing (and then resistinf the investigation of the crash of) your aeroplane which is a severe FAA violation
Back in the late 70s a couple of my buddies rode a rubber raft from the Hoboken ferry terminal to the World Trade Center, where they proceeded to place the raft in the fountain between the twin towers. Nobody cared. Nobody noticed we even called local news teams.
Wow lol crossing the Hudson on the raft is impressive alone, but then chilling in the corporate pond 💀💀 Your friends sound rad lol
Manhattan and a larger area was our colony for a while. We sent an English captain to find a passage to Asia. Henry Hudson was his name. Halve Maen was the name of the ship. He first sailed in the direction of Nova Zemla, turned around and sailed to your country. Have a nice day.
Just earlier I was (again) looking at greater New York on Google Maps and found this exact little island and thought that it would be cool to stay there overnight. Thanks Wes, now I know how it is without having to jump on a plane to fly to the other side of the world.
Such gorgeous views!!!! Thank you for sharing this with us ✨️
9:09 sounds like new challenge?
True lol
Another great video Wes. Me and wife love your videos and always get so excited when you release them. Thank you Wes and God bless you..😊
Glad you two have been enjoying them, so nice to hear!! Thanks again for watching 😊
A shallow draft kayak helps, a little. But you were near, just south of, one of the most dangerous clusters of currents on the East Coast, Hell Gate, the confluence of the East River, The Harlem River and Long Island Sound. Hell Gate has sunk tourist boats and tugs, back before they added some artificial shoaling. But that is what makes the whole effort way cool. Well done!
Where is that ramp? I'm on my way to NY and looking for kayak access. A few years ago we put in at Liberty Park in New Jersey.
@@patrickheath5011 It is at Charlotte Beach in Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Brooklyn. There is also the “Hunter’s Point South kayak ramp” near 2nd St & 56th Ave in Queens. Have fun and be safe!!
@@WesWherever Great! Thank you. I'm following you now
Can I ask where you parked overnight?
Hi Patrick, sorry if my reply is finding you too late, just now seeing your message. I parked on Kent Ave between 12th & 13th St. It was free street parking, but it can fill up when it gets busy.
@@WesWherever No problem. Thanks for getting back to me. I’m going to work my way up there from Florida tomorrow.
I’m going to check out your other videos for more ideas
(I have to watch the video from the small island in RI near all the wealthy homes too.)
They’re all great. Keep them coming.
To those detractors of landing, and coastguard checks, the island would appear to display no “No Landing” signs at all. If the island was that important for wildlife (or even the security of the UN!) signs would have been erected.
It's Public Land. It's part of the Parks system.
@@myradioon .i never knew ..and im a native ..i just assumed all these islands esp here would be off limits ,,,,now I know
@@BxCortez2050 thats incorrect, the island is a bird sanctuary that is illegal to disturb
Glad to see you having fun. I used to canoe down streams with my tent, sleeping gear and a bicycle chained down in case I flipped. Finally upon reaching final destination I'd chain lock my canoe, assemble the bike, and pedal all the way back to my truck. Then... go back and get the boat. Such freedom!
That's a great method!! I've called uber/lyft to get back to my vehicle before but your way is so much more self-sufficient!
Great video dude. I watched til end too! Subscribed....hope the channel works out for you!!!
Appreciate it bro!!
Isn’t this the island where the siren brought Colin Robinson and lazslo to on what we do in the shadows?
Item #1 in my toolkit for sleeping rough is a good pair of baffled earplugs. If you can't control the surroundings, at least you can shut them out.
Can you rate the sleep you got from 1 to 10 in every video please
That's a really good idea... I think I will start doing that! Thanks again for watching