New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation recently celebrated its first centennial. South Shore Long Island is fortunate to have six state parks, all within proximity, each with a unique vibe. Enjoy the experiences they offer.
Belmont Lake State Park
Belmont Lake State Park in West Babylon to celebrate Earth Month. Whether you admire the beauty of the 42-acre Belmont Lake or explore the park’s multi-use trails by hiking or biking, the expansive 463 acres offer a wealth of activities. You can picnic, birdwatch, or even take your little ones to the playground. During the summer months, kayaks and rowboats are available for rent. Formerly owned by August Belmont and established in 1926, this park has historically served as a site for equestrian activities. If you want to participate in some spring-filled events, mark your calendar for the 2025 Belmont Spring Fishing Festival on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information on upcoming events, visit parks.ny.gov/parks/belmontlake.
Gilgo Beach State Park
If you want to take your family and friends to see the memorable sights of the Atlantic Ocean and the Great South Bay frontage – all from Long Island’s South Shore – then visit Gilgo Beach State Park for breathtaking views and enjoyable activities during pre-season from Memorial Day weekend to late June, and summer season from late June to Labor Day weekend. Visitors can enjoy amenities like the Gilgo Beach Inn, which has an extensive menu featuring hamburgers, French fries, beer, and more. The park also offers access to playgrounds, restrooms, and showers. Gilgo Beach actively participates in the environmental preservation of seabeach amaranth, a plant found along the Atlantic Coast, and the piping plover, a migratory shorebird. Additionally, natural resources are monitored, and visitors receive education on habitat management. For more information, visit townofbabylonny.gov/438/Gilgo-Beach
Robert Moses State Park
Robert Moses State Park attracts nearly 3.8 million visitors each year. Located on the west end of Fire Island, this historic beach – founded in 1908 – features an extensive five-mile shoreline overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean, where patrons can enjoy various activities such as swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding. This beachfront destination provides a range of fun-filled activities. Starting in April, score a hole-in-one in a game of golf, compete in a volleyball tournament, or enjoy a picnic – all within Field Two. Fields Three and Four offer additional picnicking options and more. A nature trail in Field Five leads to the Fire Island Lighthouse, showcasing a memorable view. To learn more, visit parks.ny.gov/parks/robertmoses/details.aspx
Captree State Park
Are you yearning for sightseeing excursions, scuba diving, or even the chance to catch fish species like blackfish and seabass? Visit Captree State Park, New York’s largest fishing fleet, home to cruise, fishing, party, and tour boats. Located at the eastern tip of Jones Island, open charter and fishing vessels will welcome all aboard! Whether you sail on the Moon Chaser and enjoy your favorite drink at the bar while taking in the sights of the Great South Bay, or choose a family fishing trip, the Captree Fleet offers unforgettable experiences. Sailing begins in April 2025, and the striped bass season starts on April 15. For more information and to stay updated on upcoming events, visit captreefleet.com/home
Heckscher State Park
Heckscher State Park is the perfect place to experience the beauty of nature and wildlife while enjoying various recreational activities. Established in February 1929, thanks to a generous donation from philanthropist August Heckscher, this historic park is located on the South Shore of Long Island in East Islip, NY. It covers 1,600 acres and features 4 miles of multi-use trails for biking and walking. The park also includes spacious fields for sports like soccer and lacrosse and picnic areas in shaded locations. This site is home to many wildlife species, including rabbits, blue-claw crabs, osprey, and more. It is also known as the “home of the white-tailed deer,” attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to spot these beautiful animals.
For more information on amenities, hours of operation, and upcoming events, visit parks.ny.gov/parks/heckscher
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
April showers bring flowers, wildlife, and more! Come and visit the Connetquot River State Park Preserve in Oakdale, New York. Spanning 3,473 acres of water and terrain, this park offers much to explore and is home to various wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy 50 miles of trails for hiking and walking, perfect for appreciating nature. Amenities include boat rentals, equestrian trails, and more. The Long Island Environmental Interpretive Center, located within the park, provides environmental education classes. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for these upcoming April events: Tiny Tots Programs: Quack Quest on Wednesday, April 2, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.; 2025 Trout Unlimited Fly-Casting Clinics on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit parks.ny.gov/parks/connetquotriver
Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park
The Bayard Cutting Arboretum, situated along the Connetquot River in Great River, NY, is one of Long Island’s last remaining estates, with the original grounds designed by renowned landscape architect Fredric Law Olmstead. In 1936, Mrs. Olivia James and her mother, Mrs. William Bayard, expressed their vision for the estate: “to provide an oasis of beauty and quiet for the pleasure, rest, and refreshment of those who appreciate outdoor beauty; and to foster a greater understanding of the value and importance of informal planting,” as stated on the official Bayard Cutting Arboretum website. This estate is a tribute to James’ father, William Bayard Cutting. Reflecting this vision, the estate invites visitors to explore its stunning landscape and enjoy tea and brunch at the Hidden Oak Café, which overlooks the river. Spring events include the Manor House Tour on April 4, 5, 6, and 7 from 11 a.m. to noon. For more information, visit bayardcuttingarboretum.com.
