Captree State Park

For those of us living in New York, especially on Long Island, the call of the ocean and the promise of a peaceful escape from the city's hustle are ever-present. Captree State Park, located at 3500 Ocean Pkwy, Bay Shore, NY 11706, answers that call with remarkable flair. This isn't just any state park; it's a jewel on the south shore of Long Island, renowned as a premier destination for saltwater fishing, crabbing, and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Captree State Park is a truly versatile spot, making it an excellent choice for a wide array of activities. As one local visitor perfectly put it, it's "Honestly a great area for families, fishing, crabbing, and just to spend a day getting away from the city. It’s clean and relatively quiet." This sentiment is echoed by many who have cherished memories of the park, including a long-time visitor who fondly remembers "Always peaceful always a good sunset been a favorite spot since I was a kid. Maybe days spend fishing and crabbing." The park's ability to recover and thrive after events like Hurricane Sandy also speaks to its enduring resilience and the commitment to maintaining this valuable public space.

Whether you're an avid angler hoping for a big catch, a family looking for a relaxing day by the water, or simply someone seeking a stunning sunset view, Captree State Park delivers. It serves as a gateway to some of the finest fishing grounds in the region, boasting a fleet of charter and open boats ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure. Beyond fishing, its clean environment and tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply unwinding amidst nature. We're here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to Captree State Park, ensuring you have all the information needed to make the most of your visit to this beloved Long Island treasure.

Captree State Park is strategically located at the eastern end of the Ocean Parkway, at 3500 Ocean Pkwy, Bay Shore, NY 11706, USA. This prime waterfront position makes it exceptionally accessible for visitors from across Long Island and the greater New York metropolitan area.

Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Captree State Park. The Ocean Parkway itself is a scenic route that directly leads to the park. It is easily accessible from major Long Island highways such as the Southern State Parkway and the Heckscher State Parkway. Once you arrive at the park, ample parking is available. As a previous visitor noted, "Parking is $8 per car after 9am so I would recommend having cash ready on hand." This indicates that while there's a parking fee during peak hours, space is generally plentiful, making arrival hassle-free. The vast parking lots are designed to accommodate numerous vehicles, including those towing boats.

While direct public transportation to Captree State Park can be limited due to its somewhat isolated waterfront location, local bus services might connect to areas near the park, from which a taxi or ride-sharing service would be necessary. For those coming from further away, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides service to nearby towns like Bay Shore or Babylon, after which a local taxi or ride-share would be the best option to complete the journey to the park. However, for most New Yorkers on Long Island, driving remains the most practical and efficient way to experience all that Captree State Park has to offer, particularly given the large amount of gear often associated with fishing and boating activities. The park's location at the end of a scenic parkway also means that bikers often utilize the road for recreational rides, adding another dimension of accessibility for cyclists.

Captree State Park provides a comprehensive array of services tailored to its identity as a premier fishing and recreational waterfront destination:

• Fishing and Crabbing Piers: Extensive public piers are available, offering excellent opportunities for both fishing and crabbing directly from the shore. These are widely utilized by individuals and families.
• Charter and Open Boat Fishing: The park is home to a large fleet of charter and open (party) boats. These vessels offer daily trips for various types of fishing (e.g., fluke, stripers, tuna, cod) with professional captains and crews, catering to both experienced anglers and novices.
• Bait and Tackle Shop: A dedicated bait and tackle shop, as mentioned by a long-time visitor ("Captree bait shop right there as well"), provides essential supplies, including bait, fishing rods, tackle, and other fishing accessories.
• Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained public restroom facilities are available for visitors' convenience.
• Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas with tables are typically present, allowing families and groups to enjoy meals outdoors with scenic views.
• Food Concessions: Seasonal food concessions or snack bars are often available, offering refreshments, snacks, and light meals.
• Boat Launch Ramps: While primarily known for its charter fleet, some state parks offer boat launch facilities for private vessels, though it's best to confirm specific availability for private boat launches at Captree.
• Access to Fire Island Inlet: The park serves as a gateway to the Fire Island Inlet, providing direct access to both the Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, making it ideal for various water-based activities.
• Air Station for 4x4 Vehicles: As noted in a review, there is an "air station for those of us who 4x4 on the point," indicating support for specific recreational activities popular in the area.

Captree State Park boasts several standout features and highlights that firmly establish it as a favorite among New Yorkers:

• Unparalleled Fishing Access: This is arguably its greatest highlight. Captree is renowned as one of the best fishing hubs on Long Island, offering both ample pier fishing opportunities and an extensive fleet of party boats for offshore and bay fishing excursions.
• Spectacular Sunset Views: Many visitors rave about the breathtaking sunsets visible from the park, making it a popular spot for an evening stroll or quiet contemplation. As one reviewer stated, "Always peaceful always a good sunset."
• Family-Friendly Environment: The park's clean, relatively quiet, and safe atmosphere makes it an "Honestly a great area for families," providing opportunities for crabbing, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors together.
• Gateway to the Ocean Parkway and Fire Island: Its location at the eastern end of the iconic Ocean Parkway makes it a scenic drive destination and a direct access point to Fire Island, with connections to ferries for those wishing to explore further.
• Resilience and Ongoing Maintenance: The park's successful recovery and sustained quality, even after significant events like Hurricane Sandy, demonstrate the commitment to its upkeep and continued enjoyment for the public.
• Full-Service Amenities for Anglers: The presence of charter boats, an open boat fleet, and a well-stocked bait and tackle shop ("Captree bait shop right there as well") means anglers have everything they need for a successful day on the water.
• Scenic Biking Opportunities: The adjacent Ocean Parkway offers long stretches for cycling, allowing bikers to enjoy the coastal scenery, as observed by a visitor: "You can also see bikers biking back and forth on the road."

As a New York State Park, Captree State Park's "promotions" often come in the form of accessible pricing and special events designed for public enjoyment rather than commercial sales.

• Affordable Parking: The primary fee is the vehicle use fee, which is $8 per car after 9 AM during peak season (mid-May to mid-October). This is a standard and relatively affordable rate for state park access, especially considering the amenities and opportunities available. Having cash ready is recommended.
• Empire Pass: For frequent visitors to New York State Parks, the Empire Pass is an excellent "special offer." This annual pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most New York State Parks and DEC forest preserve facilities, offering significant savings for those who visit multiple parks throughout the year.
• Free Fishing Days: New York State often designates "Free Fishing Days" throughout the year, during which the fishing license requirement is waived. While the park itself doesn't control licenses, these state-level promotions directly benefit visitors to Captree's piers and boats.
• Special Events and Programs: The New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation department occasionally hosts free or low-cost educational programs, environmental workshops, or seasonal events at state parks. While specific to Captree, these could include fishing clinics, nature walks, or family festivals. Check the NYS Parks website for a schedule.
• Support for Local Charter Businesses: As one review notes, "Don't forget to go on down and give the charter guys some business." While not a park "promotion," supporting the local charter fleet at Captree directly contributes to the park's vibrant atmosphere and offers unique fishing experiences.

For the most up-to-date information on fees, Empire Pass details, and any scheduled events, it is always best to consult the official New York State Parks website for Captree State Park.

For inquiries regarding Captree State Park, including information about park hours, fishing conditions, boat charters, or any other amenities, you can reach out directly to the park management.

Address: 3500 Ocean Pkwy, Bay Shore, NY 11706, USA

Phone: (631) 669-0449

Mobile Phone: +1 631-669-0449 (This is the same number, often listed for international dialing or clarity)

It is always recommended to call during regular business hours for specific questions. For more comprehensive information, including current conditions, specific event schedules, and details on fishing regulations or boat charters, it is advisable to visit the official New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation website and search for Captree State Park. This website is the authoritative source for state park information.

For New Yorkers, particularly those on Long Island, Captree State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished local destination. Its suitability is rooted in its unique position as a premier waterfront hub that caters to a diverse range of recreational interests, offering something for almost everyone seeking an escape or activity near the water.

Firstly, its unparalleled access to fishing and crabbing opportunities is a major draw. Whether you're an experienced angler chartering a boat or a family introducing kids to crabbing from the pier, Captree provides the facilities and environment for a successful and enjoyable day. This direct access to marine life makes it an ideal spot for hands-on outdoor education and family bonding. The ample parking, though with a fee, ensures that accessing these activities is convenient, a crucial factor for busy New Yorkers.

Beyond fishing, the park offers a tranquil and beautiful setting for general relaxation. The consistently praised "peaceful" atmosphere and "good sunset" views provide a much-needed respite from urban life. It’s a clean and well-maintained environment, as noted by visitors, fostering a pleasant experience for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the coastal breeze. The presence of nearby bike paths on the Ocean Parkway also caters to active individuals, adding another layer of recreational appeal.

Captree's resilience and enduring popularity, even after significant weather events, speak volumes about its integral role in the community. It’s a place where generations have made memories, from childhood fishing trips to serene evening strolls. Its comprehensive services, including the bait shop and support for charter businesses, ensure that visitors have everything they need for a full day of enjoyment. In essence, Captree State Park is more than just a park; it's a vibrant, accessible, and historically cherished piece of Long Island's coastline, making it a perfect and enduring destination for all New Yorkers.

Captree State Park

3500 Ocean Pkwy, Bay Shore, NY 11706, USA