Edgewood Preserves

For New Yorkers seeking a unique and immersive natural experience on Long Island, the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest, often simply referred to as Edgewood Preserve, stands as an invaluable ecological treasure. Located in Commack, NY, this expansive 813-acre property offers a distinct departure from more manicured parks, providing a "rugged" and authentic wilderness feel that is increasingly rare in the region. This preserve is not just another park; it's a critical component of New York's State Nature and Historic Preserve, dedicated to protecting a globally rare pitch pine-scrub oak barrens habitat.

Originally part of a much larger property acquired by the State of New York in the 1930s for psychiatric hospital facilities, a significant portion of this land was transferred to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in 1983 and dedicated to conservation in 1987. Today, Edgewood is dominated by dense shrub thickets of pitch pine-scrub oak barrens, interspersed with stands of bigtooth aspen and grasslands. This unique ecosystem occurs in only three places on Long Island and six in the entire state, underscoring its ecological significance and making it a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in environmental preservation.

With over 23.5 miles of trails and paved/unpaved roads, Edgewood Preserve provides an extensive network for various passive recreational activities. It's a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and dog walkers alike, offering a diverse range of trails from easy, flat loops to more challenging singletracks. The trails wind through the unique pine barren forest and spacious fields, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the property. Customer reviews often highlight its peaceful atmosphere, describing it as a "nice walking spot" that feels "less popular," which translates to fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with nature. While some find it "a little spooky but not in the bad way," this merely adds to its adventurous charm, inviting visitors to see where each turn leads.

Edgewood Preserve is also home to rich populations of common animal species, including various types of warblers, red-tailed hawks, eastern cottontail, and red fox, as well as rare invertebrates like the coastal barrens buckmoth. Interestingly, it's noted for having no resident deer, which contributes to the health of its unique plant communities. The collaborative efforts of the DEC and local groups like the Friends of the Edgewood Preserve and Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists (CLIMB) ensure the continuous maintenance and preservation of this vital natural resource for present and future generations of New Yorkers.

Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest is centrally located in Commack, NY 11725, USA, on Long Island. This positioning makes it a highly accessible natural retreat for New Yorkers across Suffolk County and even those venturing from further west. The main entrance and parking areas are typically found off Commack Road, although specific access points may vary.

For visitors arriving by car, the preserve is conveniently situated near major Long Island thoroughfares, including the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and the Northern State Parkway. This allows for straightforward vehicular access from various parts of Long Island and beyond. While some older reviews might mention "parking to go in is a little difficult," this generally refers to the rustic nature of the parking facilities rather than a severe limitation. There is usually nearby parking available, making it feasible for most visitors to access the trailheads.

Public transportation to Edgewood Preserve can be more challenging, as is common for large natural preserves that prioritize ecological integrity over commercial accessibility. While direct bus routes might not lead right to the trailheads, Suffolk County Transit offers services to areas in Commack. From relevant bus stops, a short taxi, rideshare, or a longer walk might be necessary to reach the preserve. For detailed public transit information, it is always best to consult Suffolk County Transit schedules.

Within the preserve, the trails vary in accessibility. The main unpaved and paved roads are generally flat and suitable for easy walking, and even some adaptive mountain biking, especially the "old paved road" which is perfect for families with small kids. However, many of the mountain bike and hiking trails are singletrack and can be more rugged, with varying levels of difficulty (marked with white, yellow, blue, and red discs). Visitors are encouraged to check trail maps and descriptions for their preferred activity and difficulty level. A free DEC permit is required for access, which can be obtained online, demonstrating a commitment to regulated and sustainable use of this valuable preserve.

• Hiking: Over 23.5 miles of trails, including a 2.7-mile easy Blue Hiking Trail loop and extensive paved/unpaved roads suitable for walking and nature exploration.

• Mountain Biking: Approximately 12.3 miles of dedicated, maintained bike-specific trails by C.L.I.M.B. (Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists), ranging from beginner (white markers) to intermediate (yellow), difficult (blue), and advanced (red) skill levels.

• Dog Walking: Designated dog-friendly trails allow for on-leash dog walking, providing a welcoming environment for pet owners (bring water and supplies as amenities like fountains may not be confirmed).

• Wildlife Observation & Bird Watching: Opportunity to observe diverse animal species, including warblers, red-tailed hawks, and red fox, within the unique pitch pine-scrub oak barrens habitat.

• Nature Study: A prime location for studying a globally rare ecological community, offering insights into Long Island's unique flora and fauna.

• Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing: Allowed within the property during winter months, though there are no designated or maintained trails specifically for these activities.

• Historical Exploration: Remnants of the former psychiatric hospital facilities (e.g., old rail spur, fire hydrants) can be found, adding a historical dimension to exploration.

• Environmental Education Programs: Periodically, "Friends of the Edgewood Preserve" and other groups host free events like bird walks and history hikes, offering guided educational experiences.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Local groups often organize clean-up events and maintenance activities (e.g., invasive species removal), providing opportunities for community involvement.

• Globally Rare Habitat: Edgewood Preserve protects one of only a few pitch pine-scrub oak barrens ecosystems on Long Island and in New York State, making it an ecologically significant and unique natural attraction.

• Extensive Multi-Use Trail System: With over 23.5 miles of trails and roads, the preserve offers a wide variety of routes for hiking, walking, and mountain biking, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

• Dedicated Mountain Biking Trails: A major highlight is the extensive network of bike-specific trails, meticulously maintained by C.L.I.M.B., offering diverse singletrack experiences from beginner to advanced.

• Authentic "Rugged" Experience: Unlike highly manicured parks, Edgewood maintains a more natural, untamed feel, which is appreciated by visitors seeking a less crowded and more adventurous outdoor experience.

• Historical Remnants: The property holds remnants of its past as a former psychiatric hospital, providing a subtle historical intrigue for curious explorers.

• Wildlife Viewing: The preserve is home to a rich variety of common and rare animal species, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and bird watching in a natural setting.

• Community-Supported Preservation: Active involvement from groups like "Friends of the Edgewood Preserve" and "CLIMB" ensures ongoing conservation efforts, making it a well-cared-for local gem.

• Quiet Escape: Its "less popular" status often means fewer crowds, allowing for a peaceful and immersive experience in nature, perfect for solitude or quiet reflection.

As a New York State Forest Preserve managed by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest primarily offers free public access for passive recreation. Therefore, it does not typically run commercial "promotions" in the same way a retail business might. However, there are several "special offers" or benefits that New Yorkers can take advantage of:

• Free Access (with permit): The most significant offer is the free entry for hiking, walking, and mountain biking. A free DEC permit is required for access, which can be easily obtained online from the NYSDEC website. This permit ensures sustainable use and access to a valuable natural resource without charge.

• Free Educational Events: The "Friends of the Edgewood Preserve" group frequently organizes free educational programs, such as "Late Bloomers and Local Birds Hike" or "Spring History Hike" events. These offer guided tours and learning opportunities about the preserve's ecology and history at no cost.

• Volunteer Opportunities: For those looking to give back, various groups (like the Friends of the Edgewood Preserve and ReWild Long Island) host volunteer clean-up and maintenance events (e.g., rain garden maintenance, invasive species removal). Participating in these events is a way to contribute to the preserve's health and engage with the community.

• Season-Specific Activities: While not a promotion, the availability of activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter offers seasonal "offers" for varied outdoor recreation, allowing New Yorkers to enjoy the park year-round as conditions permit.

• Community Collaboration: The preserve benefits from partnerships with organizations like CLIMB (Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists) who maintain the bike trails, ensuring high-quality recreational infrastructure for free use.

New Yorkers are highly encouraged to check the official NYSDEC website for Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest and the "Friends of the Edgewood Preserve" website (often linked from the DEC site or found via search) for the most current information on permits, upcoming free events, and volunteer opportunities.

For information regarding the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest (Edgewood Preserve) in Commack, New Yorkers should direct their inquiries to the managing authority and supporting organizations.

Address: Commack, NY 11725, USA (Note: Specific entrances are typically off Commack Road, with an exact mailing address often for the DEC regional office or Friends group rather than the physical park entrance).

General Inquiries (NYSDEC Region 1, which manages the preserve):Phone: (631) 444-0279 (This is a common contact number for DEC State Land Access Permits and general inquiries for this region).

For more specific information, especially concerning events or local initiatives:

• Friends of the Edgewood Preserve: This dedicated volunteer group often has the most up-to-date information on local events, historical aspects, and detailed trail conditions.Mailing Address: P.O. Box 162, Deer Park, NY 11729Phone: (631) 242-7402Email: info@friendsofedgewoodpreserve.orgWebsite: (Search for "Friends of the Edgewood Preserve" or "Save The Oak Brush Plains" - their advocacy website)

• NYSDEC Official Website: The most authoritative source for rules, regulations, permits, and general information about Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest. Search "Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest NYSDEC".

• CLIMB (Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists): For detailed information specifically on mountain biking trails and conditions. Their website often provides extensive maps and trail reports.

It is always advisable to check the official websites or call the relevant organizations before visiting, especially to confirm permit requirements, current trail conditions, or event schedules.

Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest in Commack is an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for New Yorkers seeking an authentic, diverse, and less-crowded outdoor experience on Long Island. Its unique characteristics make it a true asset for local residents.

First and foremost, its identity as a State Forest Preserve dedicated to a globally rare pitch pine-scrub oak barrens habitat offers an unparalleled opportunity for ecological education and appreciation. For locals, this means access to a living laboratory where they can witness and learn about a unique ecosystem right in their backyard. This commitment to preservation ensures that the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the area are maintained for generations to come.

The extensive network of over 23.5 miles of trails caters to a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you're a casual walker, a serious hiker, or a passionate mountain biker, Edgewood has something to offer. The diverse terrain, from easy wide paths to challenging singletracks, ensures that every visit can be a new adventure. The dedicated mountain biking trails, maintained by CLIMB, are a particular highlight for the local cycling community, providing top-tier riding opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere on Long Island.

Crucially, Edgewood's reputation as a "less popular" park means that New Yorkers can often find solitude and peace here, a welcome respite from the crowds that sometimes gather at more well-known recreational spots. This quiet atmosphere fosters a deeper connection with nature, allowing for reflection, wildlife observation, and a genuine escape from the daily grind. The subtle historical remnants also add a layer of intrigue, inviting locals to explore the past as they traverse the landscape.

In essence, Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest is more than just a place to walk; it's a vital natural sanctuary, a recreational playground, and a historical canvas. Its accessibility, diverse recreational offerings, and unique ecological significance make it an indispensable resource for New Yorkers who value rugged natural beauty, active outdoor pursuits, and a quiet connection to Long Island's wild heart. It truly is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by those who call New York home.

Edgewood Preserves

Commack, NY 11725, USA