The Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve in Huntington, New York, offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
Entrance fees are typically around $8 per vehicle for New York residents. Parking is available, but spaces can fill up quickly on weekends.
From Manhattan, take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) east, merging onto Northern State Parkway. Continue until you reach the exit for Route 25A, then follow the signs to your destination, where nature’s serenity awaits just beyond the urban hustle.
Caumsett State Park offers designated RV and motorcycle parking, along with accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities. Cyclists can conveniently use bike racks located throughout the park.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Discover breathtaking coastal views and lush trails in this Long Island gem.
Caumsett State Park, a hidden gem on Long Island’s North Shore, invites discerning travelers to experience its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Spanning over 1,500 acres, this former estate of the wealthy Marshall Field III offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore miles of picturesque trails that wind through lush woodlands, expansive meadows, and scenic waterfronts, each step revealing the park’s diverse ecosystems.
The park’s coastal views are nothing short of spectacular, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Kayaking, birdwatching, and horseback riding present exhilarating ways to engage with the stunning surroundings. As the sun sets over the Long Island Sound, the tranquil ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
History lovers will appreciate the remnants of the estate, including the elegant stone mansion and charming outbuildings that echo a bygone era. Caumsett State Park is not just a retreat for nature lovers; it is a sanctuary where history and beauty converge, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its serene splendor.
Top 3 Facts about Caumsett State Park
During certain migration seasons, rare species such as the American oystercatcher and the endangered piping plover can be spotted along the coastal habitats, showcasing the unique biodiversity and providing a vital stopover for migratory birds navigating the Atlantic Flyway.
In a unique microclimate, this park experiences a phenomenon where its coastal location can lead to sudden temperature shifts, with recorded extremes showing a 30-degree difference between sheltered areas and exposed ones, creating diverse habitats and affecting local flora and fauna significantly.
Known for its unique trails like the “Horse Trail of Mystery,” this park prohibits activities like metal detecting and overnight camping, ensuring preservation of its natural beauty while offering a variety of outdoor sports that attract record-setting athletes and adventurers seeking unusual experiences.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
When visiting this scenic gem on Long Island, plan ahead to maximize your experience. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends, and consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning landscapes. Layer your clothing for changing weather and don comfortable shoes for hiking the diverse trails. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views and abundant wildlife.
Pack Appropriately
When packing for your visit, consider bringing binoculars to fully appreciate the diverse birdlife along the coastal trails. The unique blend of habitats, from salt marshes to woodlands, attracts a variety of species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during migration seasons. A lightweight backpack can also help you navigate the park’s scenic paths comfortably.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the diverse wildlife by observing animals from a distance and avoiding any direct interaction. Keep your pets leashed to prevent disturbances, and never feed wildlife, as this can disrupt their natural foraging habits. Enjoy the beauty of nature while ensuring that these creatures thrive in their natural habitat.
Stay Informed
Before your visit, stay informed by checking the weather forecast, current temperatures, and any fire bans or notices. Make sure to share your plans with someone, including your destination and expected return time, and keep emergency contact information handy for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Seasons
In spring, Caumsett State Park’s blooming wildflowers and returning migratory birds create a picturesque setting for hiking, biking, and birdwatching along its diverse trails.
In summer, the park’s trails wind through woodlands, meadows, and salt marshes, offering a serene escape; June, July, and August provide ideal weather for hiking, biking, and nature programs.
As autumn paints the landscape with vibrant hues, the park’s diverse habitats offer a serene backdrop for hiking, birding, and photography, making September through November an ideal time to visit.
Winter’s embrace transforms the park into a serene haven where visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing along snow-dusted trails and witness migratory birds in their natural habitat.
Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Caumsett State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Caumsett State Park offers a variety of activities including hiking, birdwatching, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The park features several trails that wind through diverse landscapes, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Visitors can also explore the historic estate and enjoy scenic views of Long Island Sound.
-
Pets are allowed in Caumsett State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets to maintain the park’s cleanliness and natural beauty.
-
Caumsett State Park operates from 8 AM to 4 PM during the winter months, and from 8 AM to 6 PM in the spring and fall. In the summer, the park is open from 8 AM to 8 PM. Always check the official website for any seasonal changes to the hours.
-
Fishing is permitted at Caumsett State Park, specifically in designated areas. Anglers must possess a valid New York State fishing license and adhere to local regulations regarding catch limits and fishing seasons.
-
There are no entrance fees for Caumsett State Park, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. However, there may be fees for specific activities or events, so it’s advisable to check ahead for any updates.
