Hidden Pond Park

For those living in and around New York, especially on Long Island, finding a versatile outdoor space that caters to a wide range of interests can feel like hitting the jackpot. Look no further than Hidden Pond Park in Hauppauge, NY – a true local treasure that provides a welcome escape from the daily grind and a fantastic hub for recreation and relaxation. This extensive park, as its name suggests, offers a sense of discovery with its varied landscapes and amenities, making it a perfect destination for individuals, couples, and families alike. Whether you're an avid hiker, a dedicated mountain biker, a parent looking for a fun day out with the kids, or simply seeking a tranquil spot to unwind, Hidden Pond Park delivers. Its blend of serene natural beauty and well-maintained recreational facilities truly sets it apart as a premier local destination.

Hidden Pond Park is more than just a patch of green; it’s a comprehensive recreational area managed by the Town of Islip Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs, ensuring it’s well-maintained and offers a diverse array of activities. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in nature one moment and enjoy active sports the next, all within the convenient bounds of Hauppauge. The park's commitment to providing a high-quality experience for all visitors is evident in its meticulously cared-for grounds and the broad spectrum of facilities available. This dedication makes Hidden Pond Park a consistently enjoyable and reliable option for anyone looking to spend quality time outdoors in the Long Island area.

Hidden Pond Park is conveniently located at Hauppauge, NY 11788, USA. Its central Long Island location makes it easily accessible for residents across Suffolk County and beyond. The park boasts ample parking, with a large lot near the ball fields at the front of the park and another parking area towards the back, closer to The Rinx ice skating facility, tennis courts, and an entrance to some of the camping areas and trails. This dual access point ensures that regardless of your intended activity, you’ll find a convenient place to park.

Navigating to the park is straightforward, whether you're coming from nearby towns or further afield in New York. Its proximity to major roadways in Hauppauge means a smooth drive for most visitors. The park's layout is also designed for ease of access, with clear signage guiding you to different sections and facilities. This thoughtful approach to accessibility contributes significantly to the overall positive experience visitors have at Hidden Pond Park, making it a stress-free outing from start to finish.

Services Offered:

• Public Swimming Pools: Hidden Pond Park features a fantastic public pool complex at The Rinx, including a 50-meter main pool, a diving pool with two one-meter diving boards, and a kiddy pool with interactive water toys. Lounge chairs and pool chairs are available for comfort, alongside the Time Out Cafe for refreshments. Locker rooms and showers are also provided. Please note that there are specific hours and admission fees, with discounted rates for Town of Islip Recreation Card holders.
• Ice Skating: The Rinx, located within the park, offers public skating sessions year-round on NHL-sized ice skating rinks. They also provide programs and activities for various ages and skill levels in both hockey and figure skating.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous designated picnic spots are available throughout the park, perfect for family gatherings or a relaxed outdoor meal.
• Public Restrooms: Facilities are maintained for visitor convenience.
• Ball Fields: The park includes well-maintained baseball and softball fields, popular for local leagues and casual play.
• Tennis Courts: Courts are available for public use, offering a great way to stay active.
• Handball Courts: Additional courts provide another option for sports enthusiasts.
• Day Camp Programs: Hidden Pond Day Camp at The Rinx offers flexible enrollment options for summer, including 3-day, 4-day, or 5-day programs ranging from 1 to 8 weeks.

Features / Highlights:

• Extensive Nature Trails: Hidden Pond Park boasts a network of trails, offering varied experiences. One trail, accessible by The Rinx, is described as a "biking trail on a steep hill," popular for mountain biking. Another, closer to the ball fields, is a "more forest trail" preferred for its calming atmosphere, unique dead trees, and a path that leads towards a golf course, providing picturesque views. These trails are considered quite extensive and peaceful, providing a wilderness experience.
• Mountain Biking Opportunities: With dedicated trails, the park is a fantastic spot for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering challenging terrain and scenic rides.
• Hidden Pond: As the name implies, the park features a charming hidden pond, which adds to its allure and provides a serene setting for relaxation and reflection. While some guidebooks note that these ponds can be dry part of the year, they are visible on terrain maps and are a delightful discovery for visitors.
• Diverse Wildlife: The park is home to various wildlife, including birds like cardinals, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and photography.
• Lush Greenery: The park is characterized by its lush greenery, providing a refreshing natural environment.
• Scenic Views: Elevated points within the park offer admirable views, hinting at the Long Island Sound in the distance.
• Playgrounds: There are playground facilities available, making it a family-friendly destination for those with younger children.
• Camping Areas: Some areas within the park are suitable for camping, offering an immersive outdoor experience.

While Hidden Pond Park itself does not typically advertise ongoing public promotions, the facilities within its bounds, particularly The Rinx, often have special offers for their services. For example, The Rinx, which houses the Hidden Pond Park Pool and ice skating rinks, provides different pricing tiers for pool admission: residents with a valid Town of Islip Recreation Card receive discounted rates, while non-residents pay a higher fee. Senior residents also enjoy a significantly reduced admission price. Children under 3 are admitted free, and those aged 3 and up are admitted under a parent or guardian's recreation card at the resident admission rate.

Additionally, Hidden Pond Day Camp at The Rinx, offered during the summer months, provides flexible enrollment options (3-day, 4-day, or 5-day enrollment ranging from 1 week to 8 weeks), catering to various family schedules and preferences. While not a direct promotion for the park itself, these offerings from the co-located facilities enhance the value and appeal of visiting Hidden Pond Park. It's always advisable to check The Rinx’s official website or contact them directly for the most current information on pricing, seasonal passes, or any special deals they may be running for their ice skating or pool services, especially if you are a Town of Islip resident looking to maximize savings.

Hidden Pond Park
Address: Hauppauge, NY 11788, USA
For inquiries related to the park's general facilities and maintenance, you may contact the Town of Islip Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department. While a direct phone number for the park specifically isn't widely publicized, The Rinx, a key facility within the park, can be reached for pool and ice skating inquiries.
The Rinx (for pool and ice skating information):
Phone: (631) 232-3222 (for Hidden Pond Pool inquiries)

Hidden Pond Park truly stands out as an ideal destination for locals in the New York region, particularly those on Long Island. Its multifaceted offerings cater to a wide array of interests and age groups, making it a consistently appealing choice for spontaneous outings and planned activities alike. For nature enthusiasts, the extensive and tranquil trails provide a much-needed escape, whether for a brisk walk, a calming jog, or an invigorating mountain bike ride. The natural beauty, from the "unique dead trees" to the hidden pond and diverse wildlife, offers a refreshing contrast to the urban landscape.

Families will find the park exceptionally suitable, thanks to its well-equipped playground, picnic areas, and especially the public swimming pool complex at The Rinx. This combination ensures that children have ample opportunities for play and recreation, while adults can relax or engage in their preferred activities. The ice-skating rink further expands the seasonal appeal, offering year-round fun regardless of the weather. The presence of sports fields, including baseball, softball, tennis, and handball courts, provides excellent venues for organized sports and casual games, fostering community engagement and active lifestyles.

The accessibility of Hidden Pond Park, with its convenient location in Hauppauge and ample parking, removes much of the logistical stress associated with visiting public spaces. The community reviews highlight the park’s positive energy and calming atmosphere, reinforcing its role as a local sanctuary. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on a mountain bike trail, enjoy a leisurely picnic by the pond, cool off in the summer, or simply find a peaceful spot to reconnect with nature, Hidden Pond Park provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience right in your backyard. It's a place where memories are made, and local well-being is genuinely enhanced, solidifying its status as a vital community asset for New Yorkers.

Hidden Pond Park

Hauppauge, NY 11788, USA