Blydenburgh Park

For outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike in the New York region, Blydenburgh Park in Smithtown, NY, stands as a true testament to Long Island's natural beauty and rich past. More than just a hiking area, this sprawling 627-acre county park is a multifaceted destination nestled at the headwaters of the scenic Nissequogue River. It boasts panoramic views of Stump Pond, an iconic body of water formed over two centuries ago, and offers a diverse landscape of richly forested hills, valleys, and wetlands. Blydenburgh Park seamlessly combines opportunities for invigorating physical activity with chances for peaceful contemplation and educational exploration of local history.

Whether you're looking to challenge yourself on a lengthy trail, immerse yourself in nature's tranquility, or step back in time to witness historic structures, Blydenburgh Park delivers. Its trails are celebrated for their beauty and accessibility, providing a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels. Beyond the paths, the park's historical significance, particularly with the Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District, offers a unique window into Long Island's pre-industrial era. It's a place where the fresh air, stunning vistas, and echoes of history converge to create an unforgettable outdoor experience right here on Long Island, making it a cornerstone for recreation and cultural appreciation in the New York area.

Blydenburgh Park is located in Smithtown, NY 11787, USA, with its main entrance conveniently situated off NYS Route 454 (Veterans Memorial Highway) in Hauppauge, directly across from the Denison Building. Another accessible entrance is found off New Mill Road, just south of Jericho Turnpike (NYS Route 25). This dual access makes it remarkably easy to reach the park from various points across Long Island.

The park's integration into the extensive Long Island Greenbelt Trail system is a key accessibility feature. The Greenbelt Trail Conference even has its headquarters within the park, underscoring its importance as a nexus for regional hiking. For those arriving by car, there are ample parking facilities, including a large gravel lot near the main entrance that provides easy access to the historic district and boat rental area.

Beyond vehicular access, Blydenburgh Park is highly amenable to visitors arriving on foot or by bicycle, directly connecting to significant regional trails. This connectivity encourages sustainable transportation and allows for seamless integration into longer outdoor excursions. While some reviews mention that certain sections of the park roads might have rough patches or low branches, the overall accessibility for visitors of all types—from dedicated hikers to casual families—is well-regarded. Its location makes it a true oasis of nature and history, readily available to anyone in the New York metropolitan area looking for an outdoor escape.

Services Offered:

• Hiking Trails: Over a dozen miles of trails, including the popular 6.2-mile (10K) loop around Stump Pond. Trails are generally mellow, shaded, and suitable for all ages and skill levels, with new boardwalks in swampy areas.
• Freshwater Fishing: Permitted from sunrise to sunset in Stump Pond, which is known for largemouth bass, perch, crappie, and bluegill. Anglers can fish from the shore or from non-motorized boats.
• Boating and Kayaking: Rowboat rentals are available seasonally (typically mid-May to Labor Day). Personal kayaks and canoes can also be launched at designated areas.
• Camping: Offers RV and tent sites from April 1 to November 11. Sites include amenities like water, electrical hookups, grills, and campfire rings. Reservations are required.
• Horseback Riding: Features an extensive bridle path system and a practice ring. Trailer parking is available at the north entrance, and a Suffolk County Horseback Riding Permit is necessary.
• Picnic Areas: Designated areas for picnics are available throughout the park. Groups of ten or more require a permit.
• Dog Run: A two-acre fenced dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs, offering water, shade, benches, and waste bags. Leashed dogs are also welcome on all park trails.
• Playground: An interactive playground provides a fun space for children.
• Historic Tours: Guided tours of the Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District, including the 1798 New Mill and 1802 Miller's House, are offered on Saturdays at 1:00 PM.
• Educational Programs: The Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference, headquartered in the park, periodically organizes guided hikes and other educational events.
• Restrooms and Showers: Available, particularly beneficial for campers.

Features / Highlights:

• Stump Pond: The centerpiece of the park, this 100-acre pond (also known as Blydenburgh Lake) offers beautiful views and excellent fishing. Its name comes from the visible tree stumps from when the area was dammed in 1798.
• Extensive and Scenic Hiking Trails: Known for its "awesome trail" that circles the pond, offering beautiful views and minimal elevation change, making it enjoyable for various fitness levels. Trails are well-marked with white or blue arrows.
• Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District: A significant historical feature, this complex includes the 1798 New Mill, 1802 Miller's House, and 1820 Blydenburgh Farmhouse, representing a unique preserved farm-to-mill-to-market cycle.
• Headwaters of the Nissequogue River: The park's location at the source of this important Long Island river contributes to its diverse aquatic and wetland ecosystems.
• Rich Biodiversity: Home to a variety of native wildlife and wildflowers, including Northeastern Box Turtles, Pink Lady’s Slipper Orchid, finches, terns, owls, hawks, ospreys, and cold streams supporting indicator fish species like Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout.
• Long Island Greenbelt Trail Connection: A crucial segment of the 32-mile Long Island Greenbelt Trail runs through the park, offering extended hiking and nature exploration opportunities.
• Camping Facilities: Provides a well-equipped campground for both RVs and tents, allowing for immersive overnight stays in nature.
• Designated Dog Park: A well-appointed off-leash area, popular with dog owners, complementing the park's dog-friendly trails.
• Seasonal Beauty: Reviews highlight the park's beauty in different seasons, such as the vibrant colors of "the fall," making it a year-round destination.
• Community Value: Often cited as a "gem of a park" and "an oasis of nature" on a densely populated island, it's highly valued by locals.

As a Suffolk County Park, Blydenburgh Park operates primarily for public recreation and conservation, and therefore, it does not typically offer traditional commercial "promotions or special offers" in the same way a retail business would. Its inherent value lies in providing accessible natural and historical resources.

The most significant and consistent "special offer" for New Yorkers, particularly Suffolk County residents, is the access to diverse activities at minimal or no cost. While an entrance fee of $4 per vehicle on weekdays and $7 on weekends/holidays is standard for Suffolk County Parks, this fee grants access to miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. For those holding a valid Green Key (Suffolk County Parks' resident ID), discounted rates may apply for specific activities like camping or boat rentals, providing direct savings for locals.

The free guided tours of the Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District offered on Saturdays at 1:00 PM are another invaluable "promotion," providing a rich educational experience without an additional charge for the tour itself (standard park entrance fees may still apply). Similarly, periodic guided hikes organized by the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference often provide free or low-cost opportunities to explore the park with expert guidance. For the most up-to-date information on any specific programs, seasonal events, or potential fee waivers (e.g., for certain holidays or community days), it is always best to check the official Suffolk County Parks website or contact the park directly. This ensures that locals can maximize their enjoyment and engagement with this invaluable natural and historical asset.

Blydenburgh Park
Address: Greenbelt Trail, Smithtown, NY 11787, USA (Main entrances off NYS Route 454/Veterans Memorial Highway in Hauppauge and New Mill Road in Smithtown)
General Park Information Phone: (631) 854-3712
Mobile Phone: +1 631-854-3712
For Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference (for guided hikes/historic tours, and general trail information):
Phone: (631) 360-0753
Website: www.ligreenbelt.org
For camping reservations and comprehensive park rules, please refer to the official Suffolk County Parks website (search for Blydenburgh County Park).

It is always advisable to contact the park or relevant managing bodies directly for the most current information regarding hours, seasonal offerings, and any changes to facilities or access.

Blydenburgh Park is ideally suited for locals in the New York region, especially those residing on Long Island, due to its diverse offerings that cater to a wide array of interests and its convenient accessibility. For avid hikers and casual walkers alike, the "awesome trail" around Stump Pond provides a perfectly measured 6.2-mile loop (exactly 10K) with "beautiful views" and manageable terrain, making it a go-to for regular exercise and immersion in nature. The availability of a new boardwalk through swampland ensures that the full loop is accessible and enjoyable, regardless of conditions.

Beyond hiking, the park's multi-faceted recreational opportunities—including freshwater fishing for species like catfish, bass, and perch, seasonal boating, horseback riding on dedicated bridle paths, and even camping—offer something for every member of the family. Dog owners particularly appreciate the dedicated two-acre dog park and the allowance of leashed dogs on all trails, fostering a truly inclusive outdoor experience.

What truly elevates Blydenburgh Park for locals is its deep historical roots. The preserved 19th-century mill and farm complex, combined with guided tours, offers a tangible connection to Long Island's past, transforming a simple outing into an educational journey. This blend of active recreation, natural beauty, and historical enlightenment makes Blydenburgh Park an invaluable community asset. It’s a place where New Yorkers can connect with nature, stay active, learn about their heritage, and simply enjoy a high quality of outdoor life right in their own backyard, making it a cherished and indispensable part of the Long Island landscape.

Blydenburgh Park

Smithtown, NY 11787, USA