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Paul T Given Town Park

W Main St, Smithtown, NY 11787, USA

4.0
This is a small park with access to Nissequogue River. There is river fishing off an old bridge and my favorite kayak launch.The river can be as shallow as 6 inches so if setting out to kayak upstream to State park. It is crucial to check the tide charts. It is about a 2.5 to 3 hr kayak ride to Nissequogue State Park. Kayak launching from up river to this park is also possible for a parking fee.Check tide schedules!!This river is full of wildlife. Turtles, fish, cranes, and other fowl. So peaceful.Kayak rentals are available from 3rd party private outfitters down the road. - John H.
Paul T Given Town Park Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Paul T Given Town Park Introduce

For New Yorkers on Long Island, the desire to connect with nature, engage in outdoor activities, and find serene escapes is a constant pursuit. Paul T. Given Town Park in Smithtown, NY, stands out as a unique and invaluable local park that caters specifically to those seeking an authentic river experience. Unlike typical neighborhood parks, Paul T. Given Town Park serves as a premier access point to the beautiful Nissequogue River, making it a beloved destination for paddlers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. It's a testament to the fact that some of the most fulfilling outdoor adventures are found right in our own backyard.

This small yet mighty park offers a gateway to a vibrant ecosystem teeming with local wildlife. Visitors often speak of the peaceful encounters with turtles, various fish, majestic cranes, and other fowl that call the Nissequogue River home. It's a place where the gentle flow of the river and the rustling of the leaves create a calming symphony, allowing locals to truly "forget about the world for a minute" and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Long Island. The park’s focus on river access and its intimate scale contribute to a more personal and tranquil experience, setting it apart from larger, more active recreational areas.

What truly sets Paul T. Given Town Park apart is its unparalleled access to the Nissequogue River, making it a crucial hub for those looking to explore this vital waterway. Whether you're an experienced kayaker planning a multi-hour trip upstream to the Nissequogue State Park, or a novice eager to try canoeing for the first time, this park provides the essential starting point. Its reputation as a "great canoe/kayak rental place" through third-party outfitters nearby further solidifies its role as a key player in local outdoor recreation. For anyone in the New York area seeking a genuine river adventure, Paul T. Given Town Park is an essential destination.

Location and Accessibility

Paul T. Given Town Park is conveniently located at W Main St, Smithtown, NY 11787, USA. This address places it directly along the Nissequogue River, highlighting its primary function as a water access point. Smithtown is a well-established community on Long Island, making the park easily discoverable for local residents and visitors to the area.

Accessibility to the park is generally straightforward for those traveling by car. W Main Street is a significant thoroughfare in Smithtown, connecting various parts of the town. While the park itself is described as "small," it provides dedicated parking for visitors, which is crucial for those bringing kayaks, canoes, or fishing gear. Reviews mention the possibility of a "parking fee" for launching from upstream and paddling down to this park, indicating that parking is a structured amenity for river access users. This structured parking helps manage traffic and ensures space for those utilizing the river.

For those relying on public transportation, accessing Paul T. Given Town Park might require a combination of bus routes and a short walk. Suffolk County Transit operates in the Smithtown area, and while a direct stop at the park’s entrance isn't guaranteed, key bus routes run along main roads in Smithtown, such as West Main Street, within reasonable walking distance. However, given the nature of the park's activities (kayaking, fishing), most visitors typically arrive by personal vehicle, which accommodates their equipment.

The park's location is also advantageous due to its proximity to other local services and amenities in Smithtown. This means visitors can easily combine their park visit with other errands or outings in the town, such as grabbing a meal or supplies. The overall accessibility makes Paul T. Given Town Park a convenient and practical destination for anyone in the New York region looking to enjoy the unique recreational opportunities offered by the Nissequogue River. Its specific placement on West Main Street makes it a recognizable landmark for locals.

Services Offered
  • Kayak Launch: The park provides a primary and popular launch point for kayaks, allowing paddlers easy access to the Nissequogue River. This is a key service for recreational enthusiasts.
  • Canoe Launch: Similar to kayaks, canoes can also be launched from this park, catering to a wider range of paddling interests.
  • River Fishing Access: An old bridge within the park serves as an excellent spot for river fishing, offering locals a convenient place to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful activity.
  • Parking: The park offers dedicated parking facilities for visitors, essential for those transporting kayaks, canoes, or fishing equipment. Note that some river access scenarios may involve a parking fee.
  • Wildlife Viewing: While not a structured "service," the park's location on the Nissequogue River inherently offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing, including turtles, fish, cranes, and various fowl.
  • Access to Nissequogue River: The fundamental service offered is unparalleled access to the Nissequogue River for various recreational activities.
Features / Highlights
  • Direct Nissequogue River Access: The standout feature of Paul T. Given Town Park is its prime access to the Nissequogue River. It's renowned as a fantastic launch point for kayaks and canoes, enabling paddlers to explore the river's unique ecosystem. This direct access is a significant draw for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • Excellent for Kayaking and Canoeing: Described by visitors as a "great canoe/kayak rental place" (referring to nearby outfitters that utilize this access point), the park serves as the starting or ending point for popular 6-mile river trips. The ability to paddle upstream to Nissequogue State Park (about 2.5-3 hours) or downstream to this park is a major highlight, offering varied trip lengths and experiences.
  • Rich Wildlife Observation: The Nissequogue River, accessible from the park, is teeming with diverse wildlife. Visitors frequently observe turtles, various fish species, majestic cranes, and other fowl, making it a peaceful and engaging spot for nature photography and birdwatching.
  • River Fishing Opportunities: The presence of an "old bridge" within the park offers a unique and convenient spot for river fishing. This provides a tranquil angling experience, allowing locals to enjoy their hobby amidst natural surroundings.
  • Tidal River Experience: The Nissequogue River is a tidal river, which is a significant feature impacting paddling. The park highlights the crucial need to "check the tide charts" due to potential shallow conditions (as little as 6 inches deep). This adds an element of planning and adventure, unique to tidal waterways.
  • Tranquil and Peaceful Setting: Despite its popularity as a launch point, the park maintains a peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, offering a serene escape from the everyday, perfect for unwinding and connecting with the environment.
Promotions or Special Offers

As a municipal town park, Paul T. Given Town Park does not offer commercial promotions, discounts, or special offers in the typical business sense. Its primary function is to provide free public access to recreational facilities and natural resources for the community. The inherent "special offer" of Paul T. Given Town Park is its consistent availability and the invaluable recreational opportunities it provides at little to no cost.

However, it's important to note the mention of "Kayak rentals are available from 3rd party private outfitters down the road" and "Kayak launching from up river to this park is also possible for a parking fee." These points suggest that while the park itself is free to access for general enjoyment, there might be fees associated with specific activities or services facilitated by external entities that utilize the park's access points. These third-party outfitters may offer their own promotions or packages for kayak and canoe rentals, and it would be advisable to contact them directly for current pricing or deals.

Any "promotions" related to the park itself would likely come in the form of community events, environmental programs, or free public workshops organized by the Town of Smithtown Parks Department. These types of initiatives, while not monetary discounts, offer added value and opportunities for residents to engage with the park and learn more about its ecosystem. Information on such events would typically be disseminated through the Town of Smithtown's official website, local community centers, or public announcements. We encourage locals to regularly check these resources for any updates or special activities at Paul T. Given Town Park, ensuring they can take full advantage of its offerings and any associated community programs.

Contact Information

For general inquiries about Paul T. Given Town Park, including park facilities, river access rules, or maintenance concerns, the best point of contact is the Town of Smithtown Parks Department. As a municipal park, it falls under their management and oversight.

Address: W Main St, Smithtown, NY 11787, USA

While a direct phone number specific to Paul T. Given Town Park is not typically available, you can usually reach the Town of Smithtown Parks Department for assistance. Their general contact information is readily available on the Town of Smithtown's official website. It is recommended to visit the "Parks" or "Recreation" section of the Town of Smithtown website for the most up-to-date contact details, including departmental phone numbers and email addresses for administrative offices. This ensures you are connecting with the appropriate personnel who can provide accurate information regarding park facilities, hours, or any planned maintenance.

For information regarding kayak and canoe rentals, or guided trips on the Nissequogue River, it is advised to contact the "3rd party private outfitters down the road" directly, as mentioned in customer reviews. These are independent businesses, and their contact details would be separate from the Town of Smithtown. A quick local search for "kayak rentals Nissequogue River Smithtown" should help you find their contact information.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Paul T. Given Town Park is exceptionally suitable for locals in the New York region, particularly those in Smithtown and surrounding Long Island communities, primarily due to its unique focus on river-based recreation and its tranquil natural setting. For New Yorkers seeking authentic outdoor experiences that extend beyond typical playgrounds and ballfields, this park offers a distinct and enriching alternative. Its designation as a premier access point to the Nissequogue River makes it an invaluable resource for paddlers, whether they own their equipment or utilize the services of nearby third-party outfitters. The ability to launch kayaks and canoes directly into the river provides an immediate opportunity for adventure and exploration, catering to both casual outings and longer, more ambitious trips upstream to Nissequogue State Park.

Beyond paddling, the park caters to the desire for peaceful immersion in nature. The "old bridge" offers a unique spot for river fishing, providing a calm activity for anglers of all skill levels. Wildlife enthusiasts will be particularly drawn to the abundant opportunities for observing turtles, various fish, majestic cranes, and other fowl in their natural habitat. This rich biodiversity creates a serene and educational environment, perfect for a quiet stroll or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature. The park's emphasis on wildlife and natural beauty makes it a welcome respite from the usual urban clamor.

Furthermore, the practical accessibility of the park, with its convenient location on W Main Street and dedicated parking, ensures that locals can easily visit and utilize its facilities without significant hassle. While checking tide charts is crucial for river activities, this detail adds an element of informed engagement with nature, appealing to those who appreciate planning their outdoor excursions. Paul T. Given Town Park is more than just a park; it's a gateway to the unique natural heritage of Long Island, offering a blend of active recreation and serene contemplation that perfectly aligns with the interests of New York locals seeking genuine outdoor connection and a valuable community resource.

Paul T Given Town Park Photos

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Paul T Given Town Park Location

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