Meroke Preserve - Bellmore, NY
Meroke Preserve — Dog-Friendly Trail in Bellmore, NY
Meroke Preserve, located at the intersection of Orange Street and Farmers Avenue in Bellmore, NY, offers dog owners a natural and rugged hiking experience. This dog-friendly preserve is ideal for pet owners seeking untamed pet-friendly trails, providing a more wild escape compared to manicured parks. Unlike more maintained dog parks in Bellmore or the nearby Massapequa Preserve, Meroke feels untouched and raw, offering a closer look at Nassau County’s natural woodlands.
However, those planning to visit should be aware that Meroke Preserve is not regularly maintained. The trails can be overgrown, with some blocked by fallen trees and underbrush. There may be litter and some hazards such as broken glass, so extra caution is advised when walking your dog. While the preserve’s ruggedness may appeal to adventurous hikers, families and those seeking clean open spaces may prefer other nearby options. Trail conditions change with the seasons, so plan accordingly if walking after rain or during overgrowth periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Meroke Preserve consists of hiking trails through natural woodland, though they may be overgrown or blocked in places.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? No, the preserve is not regularly maintained; visitors report overgrown paths, litter, and fallen trees.
- Are there other dog parks or trails nearby? Yes, the Massapequa Preserve and a bike path next to Wantagh State Parkway offer alternative, more maintained hiking experiences.
Reviews
I found this preserve to be overgrown and full of garbage. It’s not kept, there’s graffiti all over the trees, evidence of open fires and drinking (which is prohibited). Not family friendly because there’s broken glass.
Yes, the preserve is not maintained. There is no money for that. Sorry. But if you are truly interest in seeing nature without man’s intrusion, this place is as close as it gets here in Nassau county.
This is one of the worst preserves in Nassau County. If you’re looking for forest, there is a bike path next to the Wantagh State Parkway between Jerusalem Ave and Sunrise Highway that is infinitely better. So is the Massapequa Preserve. This is a tangled, overgrown mess, with garbage everywhere. The forest itself is not that old or interesting either. The parks I cited actually have some old growth, too (which has never been logged).
I agree with the other reviews here. This preserve isn’t bad, but it needs a ton of maintenance work. Some paths are way too tight and others are completely blocked off by fallen trees.
Couldn’t walk very far. It was overgrown and difficult to find a decent path. Was really hoping to finish this one.