Cathedral Pines County Park

Welcome to Cathedral Pines County Park, a picturesque and expansive scenic spot located at 116 Yaphank Middle Island Rd, Middle Island, NY 11953, USA. Managed by Suffolk County Parks, this natural gem offers a diverse range of environments, services, and features that make it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and campers alike. For any inquiries, you can reach the park staff at (631) 852-5502 or +1 631-852-5502.

Cathedral Pines County Park spans 320 acres, providing a tranquil and immersive woodland atmosphere. The park is characterized by towering pine trees that line its paths and campsites, contributing to its namesake "Cathedral Pines." This forested landscape is part of the larger pine barrens preserve, offering a unique ecological setting. Visitors will find a mix of wooded sites and open fields, creating varied backdrops for different activities. The park is notably situated along the headwaters of the Carmans River, one of Long Island's four largest rivers, which adds to its scenic beauty and offers opportunities for water-based recreation. Adjacent to Cathedral Pines is the Prosser Pines Nature Preserve, a popular site for hikers and photographers, featuring a majestic stand of white pines planted as early as 1812. The natural environment is home to various wildlife, including white-tailed deer and an array of beautiful birds, adding to the allure of the park. While exploring, visitors should be aware of natural elements like ticks, as with any natural outdoor setting.

Cathedral Pines County Park prides itself on providing a wide array of services and amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience, especially for campers. The park offers comprehensive camping facilities, including sites for individual campers, youth groups, and club camping (for 10 or more units), all available on a reservation basis. Recently, the park underwent extensive renovations, particularly in Camping Field B, which reopened in May 2024. These upgrades have transformed it into a state-of-the-art RV/trailer park. The modernized RV pads are now equipped with water and electric hookups, a significant improvement lauded by recent visitors. Many sites are pull-through, offering convenience for larger vehicles. Each campsite includes paved access drives, concrete pads with picnic tables, barbeque grills, and fire rings, with native, deciduous trees providing natural shade. Seven of the campsites meet ADA accessibility requirements, ensuring inclusivity. While older reviews mentioned the need for bathroom remodels, ongoing improvements suggest this is a priority, and guests generally find the existing restrooms plentiful.

Beyond camping, the park offers flush toilets and hot showers, laundry facilities, and a central dumping station for RVs. A George Broome Memorial Activity Building and picnic sites are also available for gatherings. For those needing to stay connected, internet access is provided. Recreational amenities have also seen updates, with new horseshoe courts, bocce courts, and a sand volleyball court. Future plans based on the 2015 Park Master Plan include a new bathhouse, a new maintenance building, and an update to the park recreation core, which will feature a children's playground, paved play courts for basketball, volleyball, and pickleball.

Cathedral Pines County Park is a hub for diverse outdoor activities. Its extensive trail system is a major draw, offering opportunities for hiking, walking, and mountain biking. The park features a six-mile mountain bike trail maintained by CLIMB (Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists), with sections catering to beginner to intermediate riders, including a beginner loop and optional advanced hill climbs. A newer three-mile loop, "Out Of Bounds," has added even more mileage for bikers. These trails wind through the impressive pine trees, offering a peaceful and immersive experience, often described as walking through a "pine tree paradise." The park also provides access to the Carmans River, allowing for activities like kayaking and canoeing. While not explicitly listed as a service for sale, these water activities are a prominent feature. Fishing is permitted in the park's waterways, offering a relaxing pastime. For those interested in a unique outdoor pursuit, hunting is also available during specific seasons, with Suffolk County Parks offering deer hunting access to residents with proper permits and licenses. Cross-country skiing is an option when weather permits, adding to the park's year-round appeal. Pets are welcome at the park but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

Cathedral Pines County Park is promoted as one of Suffolk County's prime locations for multi-day outdoor adventures. Its recent renovations, particularly to the RV camping area, aim to attract a broader range of visitors seeking comfortable and modern amenities within a natural setting. The park regularly hosts events; for instance, a concert featuring The Electrix is scheduled for August 2, 2025. Promotional materials emphasize the park's peaceful atmosphere and spacious sites, making it ideal for relaxing with family or friends. Reviews from real customers consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, the spaciousness, and the quiet ambiance. Many appreciate the recent upgrades, noting the new electric and water hookups, paved sites, and included fire rings and charcoal BBQs. While some older feedback mentioned the bathrooms, the ongoing renovation efforts suggest continuous improvement. The ease of access, located just off Yaphank Middle Island Road, makes it a convenient escape. The park encourages visitors to make reservations for campsites, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer, as spots tend to fill quickly. Information regarding green key cards (for Suffolk County residents, potentially offering reduced rates) and general rules and regulations are available through Suffolk County Parks. The park serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Long Island area, with nearby attractions and communities.

Cathedral Pines County Park

116 Yaphank Middle Island Rd, Middle Island, NY 11953, USA