Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park

Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, a gem in the midst of New York’s sprawling suburbs, is as beloved by visitors and day-trippers alike as it was on its opening day in 1922. Boasting a convenient location in Westchester just off the Taconic State Parkway, coupled with year-round activities for the whole family to enjoy, its not hard to see why the park is so popular.

Jones Beach State Park

Over 6 million visitors each year come to Jones Beach State Park to enjoy the 10 mile stretch of beach. Located on a barrier Island in the town of Wantagh, New York, the park is a favorite destination for just about everyone living in the NYC metropolitan area as well as those living on Long Island. During the summer, the beach fills up with people looking for some fun and sun on the shores of the Atlanticd Ocean.

Lake Erie State Park

Lake Erie State Park is a great place for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature and explore its rich diversity. With most of the park open from May through October, there is much to do and explore at this magnificent park. As the name implies, the park borders Lake Erie, the shallowest of the Great Lakes. During the summer months, visitors can spend time playing and swimming in the water of this gorgeous natural lake. At other times during the year, visitors can practice their cross-country skiing and camp at one of the 97 campsites or one of the ten cabins available throughout the year. Others may enjoy bird watching and learning about the local fauna of this region. No matter what you’re looking for, Lake Erie State Park in New York is sure to have something you will enjoy. Below you will find more information about the park, activities, hours of operation and more to help you plan your trip today.

Catharine Valley Trail

If you live in New York, your idea of “nature” may be different than that of most park-goers. Central Park isn’t really considered a national forest by the standards of the average US citizen. Finding real nature in New York State is tricky if you live in the city, but if you have the time to venture out of the city limits, you may find Catharine Valley Trail to be everything you’re looking for in an outdoors experience.

Bear Mountain State Park: the Hiker’s Mecca

Drive just an hour and a half from midtown Manhattan you can be hiking atop mountains chock full of volcanic rock formed over a billion years ago, take the trail to a ghost town, or grab a hot dog from a cart on the path to the docks at Hessian Lake, where you can rent rowboats. Bear Mountain State Park, perhaps the flagship recreation destination within New York’s Hudson Highland region, is a Mecca for those who love the outdoors, whether that means a ride though the zoo in the stroller or a challenging hike to catch a glimpse of wintering bald eagles.