Connetquot River State Park Preserve

Connetquot River State Park Preserve is a 3,473-acre conservation area with woodlands, wetlands, and a river running through it, all connected by over 50 miles of marked trails. The landscape includes different habitats that visitors can explore on foot or by bike.

The land was owned by Frederick A. O. Schwarz in the 1800s before it became a protected state park in 1969. This change allowed the natural habitats to be preserved for the future.

The Long Island Environmental Interpretive Center helps visitors understand how the local natural world works and why it matters for the area. Through its programs, people learn about the plants, animals, and water systems that make this place distinctive.

The park opens Tuesday through Sunday with a vehicle fee, but pedestrians can enter free through gates around the perimeter. Bring proper footwear and clothing since trails pass through wet areas and wooded sections.

Within the park sits the Southside Sportsmens Club District, which features a historic lodge offering tours about the area's social past. Many visitors miss this spot even though it shows an interesting connection to how people once used these grounds.

Location: Islip

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/connetquotriver/details.aspx

GPS coordinates: 40.75030,-73.15050

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49