Anthony Wayne Recreation Area - Bear Mountain, NY
Anthony Wayne Recreation Area – Dog-Friendly Outdoor Space in Bear Mountain, New York
If you’re seeking a spot to enjoy the great outdoors with your pup, Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, located near Bear Mountain, New York, offers expansive grounds and trail access in a scenic parkway setting. While not a dedicated, fenced dog park, this open recreation area is hugely popular for hiking, events, and seasonal festivities, and features ample parking and picnic spots. Pet owners appreciate the large gravel lot and easy access to the renowned Harriman and Bear Mountain trails—making it ideal for dog-friendly hiking and pet-friendly walks through nature.
This park shines during events, like Oktoberfest and Native American powwows, which transform the space into a hub with food vendors, picnic tables, and family activities. Water, seating, and shelter are available during special events, but bringing your own supplies is still recommended for daily visits. Anthony Wayne Recreation Area is a great place to start exploring with your four-legged friend, offering both accessibility and room to roam.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the best place to park? The park features a very large (mostly gravel) parking lot with easy access to trailheads and event areas.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are plenty of picnic tables around the fields, especially during major events.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Shade is provided by trees and covered areas, particularly during events, but bringing your own chairs or shelter is a good idea for regular visits.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Anthony Wayne Recreation Area connects directly to hiking trails throughout Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Entry to the park is free; however, there is a parking fee for vehicles, which is often reduced if purchased online for special events.
- Are there any special events or classes offered? The park frequently hosts large events like Oktoberfest and Native American powwows, featuring food vendors and family-friendly activities.
Reviews
I went for Native American PowWow. It was well organized with food and crafts vendors.
The only issue was getting to the parkway northbound to go home.
I went for Native American PowWow. It was well organized with food and crafts vendors.
The only issue was getting to the parkway northbound to go home.
I went for Native American PowWow. It was well organized with food and crafts vendors.
The only issue was getting to the parkway northbound to go home.
This is a great place to start a hike! The lot is huge and has good access to Harriman and Bear Mountain Trails
This is a great place to start a hike! The lot is huge and has good access to Harriman and Bear Mountain Trails
This is a great place to start a hike! The lot is huge and has good access to Harriman and Bear Mountain Trails
Attended 2024’s Oktoberfest, which was held on four (4) consecutive weeks in September through October in the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area near Bear Mountain State Park.
Admission was free and there was a NULL (NULL online) fee for parking.
There was a short parking lot entry wait when I arrived at around 2pm on a Saturday. After scanning your parking pass, you are then directed to park on the (mostly gravel) parking lot. From there, it is a short walk across the parking lot to the entrance.
Security does a quick check on bags before allowing you in.
Lots to eat and drink here with a variety of food trucks on site, as well as lots of beer as expected. The food prices range from NULL snacks to NULL meals. Beer ranged from a NULL cup to NULL refillable mug to NULL+ refillable stein. The lines can be long at times so plan ahead. I’d expect earlier visits would shorten those wait times significantly.
One worker did mention that due to a weak wifi signal in that area, the credit card readers were taking very long to complete transactions. It took me about 3 tries and 5 minutes to pay for my beer.
There were a few activities like cornhole, jenga, axe throwing (fee) and live music. There were also some kids activities (bouncy house)…not sure if there was a fee for that.
Attended 2024’s Oktoberfest, which was held on four (4) consecutive weeks in September through October in the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area near Bear Mountain State Park.
Admission was free and there was a NULL (NULL online) fee for parking.
There was a short parking lot entry wait when I arrived at around 2pm on a Saturday. After scanning your parking pass, you are then directed to park on the (mostly gravel) parking lot. From there, it is a short walk across the parking lot to the entrance.
Security does a quick check on bags before allowing you in.
Lots to eat and drink here with a variety of food trucks on site, as well as lots of beer as expected. The food prices range from NULL snacks to NULL meals. Beer ranged from a NULL cup to NULL refillable mug to NULL+ refillable stein. The lines can be long at times so plan ahead. I’d expect earlier visits would shorten those wait times significantly.
One worker did mention that due to a weak wifi signal in that area, the credit card readers were taking very long to complete transactions. It took me about 3 tries and 5 minutes to pay for my beer.
There were a few activities like cornhole, jenga, axe throwing (fee) and live music. There were also some kids activities (bouncy house)…not sure if there was a fee for that.
Attended 2024’s Oktoberfest, which was held on four (4) consecutive weeks in September through October in the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area near Bear Mountain State Park.
Admission was free and there was a NULL (NULL online) fee for parking.
There was a short parking lot entry wait when I arrived at around 2pm on a Saturday. After scanning your parking pass, you are then directed to park on the (mostly gravel) parking lot. From there, it is a short walk across the parking lot to the entrance.
Security does a quick check on bags before allowing you in.
Lots to eat and drink here with a variety of food trucks on site, as well as lots of beer as expected. The food prices range from NULL snacks to NULL meals. Beer ranged from a NULL cup to NULL refillable mug to NULL+ refillable stein. The lines can be long at times so plan ahead. I’d expect earlier visits would shorten those wait times significantly.
One worker did mention that due to a weak wifi signal in that area, the credit card readers were taking very long to complete transactions. It took me about 3 tries and 5 minutes to pay for my beer.
There were a few activities like cornhole, jenga, axe throwing (fee) and live music. There were also some kids activities (bouncy house)…not sure if there was a fee for that.
Was so happy to see Bear Mountain Native American Celebration on July 13,2024. Worth visiting with the whole family. Very inspiring to talk to native Americans and see their way of living.