Heckscher State Park - East Islip, NY
Heckscher State Park – Dog-Friendly Fun in East Islip, NY
Discover one of Long Island’s most scenic escapes at Heckscher State Park, a top destination for pet-friendly trails and outdoor adventures in East Islip, New York. This expansive park features both open lakeside spaces and shaded areas, making it a popular spot for dog owners looking to walk, hike, or relax with their furry companions. Wheelchair accessible entrances and parking ensure everyone can enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Dog lovers will appreciate the allowance of dogs throughout the park and a designated dog park area, perfect for socializing and exercise. The park also boasts amenities such as playgrounds, picnic tables, sports fields, and public restrooms, making it an excellent choice for family outings or birthday gatherings. Enjoy the well-maintained grounds, stunning water views, and local wildlife on pet-friendly hikes—all a short drive from anywhere on Long Island.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed in the designated dog park area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? There is a dedicated dog park area, but it’s unclear if it is fully fenced.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Leashes are required except in designated off-leash areas.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are picnic tables and seating areas available throughout the park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available on-site.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there are wheelchair accessible entrances and parking lots.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground and a variety of sports fields including baseball, basketball, and volleyball.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, picnic tables and barbecue grills are provided.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviews note that the grounds and facilities are well cared for and maintained.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park offers pet-friendly trails and bike paths ideal for hiking with your dog.
- Are there staff or rangers present at the park? Yes, park staff are present and helpful according to visitor reviews.
- Where is the best place to park? Onsite parking is available throughout the park.
Reviews
It’s a beautiful spot for a relaxing day outdoors!
The park is spacious, peaceful, and perfect for walking, biking, or just enjoying nature. The beach area is really nice, offering great views of the water and a cool breeze on warm days.
There are plenty of ducks and geese around, which adds to the charm—especially if you’re visiting with kids or enjoy birdwatching. It’s clean, well-maintained, and a great place to escape the hustle of everyday life.
Highly recommend for families, couples, or solo visitors looking for a scenic getaway on Long Island.
We visited this beautiful, spacious park for my son’s soccer tournament. It has plenty of well-maintained fields for different sports and activities, which is great. The only downside is that there’s no cell service, which made it hard to communicate or navigate—especially in such a large area. Still, a great spot for events and outdoor fun!
I love Hecksher! Specifically for camping. The grounds are grassy and flat and very well maintained. Kind and helpful staff. I love the bike trail. So many different birds!! So many turkeys! Btw the showers are in the same facility as the bathrooms! Score.
He is her STATE Park- in Islip – Note: not to be confused with Heckscher park in Huntington NY. As I had made the error. GPS again is tricky with a few side streets and looping me back on to the highway. Finally found field 1 past field 2 with help of the girl at the podium enterance. The few young men staff that were there we’re helpful and gave me a map, once I got to the paring area. The park and beach do seem to have much to offer. The picnic I went had many people and a tent and DJ Set up. I do want to go back and explore the many things there.
Not a bad place to camp. Price was okay for what ya go. The sites are a little squished together. I personally think renting out fire pits at a campsite should be a sin. We’re camping, there should just be a fire pit. The bathrooms are decently clean and the grounds are well cared for.