Brookhaven State Park

Tucked into the pine barrens of Long Island’s Suffolk County, Brookhaven State Park spreads across 1,638 acres of surprisingly wild terrain just a short drive from New York City. Established in 1971, the park preserves one of the largest undeveloped tracts on Long Island — a landscape of pitch pine forests, sandy trails, and kettle ponds shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago.

The park is a favorite among mountain bikers, with miles of singletrack winding through dense woodland. Hikers and trail runners share the network of interconnected paths, which range from easy loops to more rugged stretches through hilly terrain. Horseback riding is permitted on designated trails, and the quiet interior attracts birders looking for species that thrive in the pine barrens ecosystem, including eastern towhees and pine warblers.

Hunting is allowed in season with proper permits, making Brookhaven one of the few accessible public hunting grounds on Long Island. In winter, the trails see cross-country skiers and snowshoers when conditions allow.

The park does not currently have developed campground facilities, so plan for day-use visits. There are no concessions on-site either — bring water and supplies with you.

The best time to visit is spring through fall, when the trails are dry and the forest canopy provides welcome shade on hot summer days. Autumn brings particularly striking color to the oak and pine mix.

Brookhaven State Park is a genuine retreat — proof that even on Long Island, real wilderness endures.

Explore Nearby

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• Stratford Shoal Light — Lighthouse in Connecticut
• Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails — Public Land
• Comstock’s Bridge — Covered Bridge in Connecticut
• Ogden River Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Utah