Willson’s Woods Park

For New York families seeking the perfect blend of refreshing aquatic fun, expansive green spaces for picnics, and a welcoming environment for all ages, look no further than Willson’s Woods Park in Mount Vernon. Nestled within Westchester County, this historic park stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning and dedication to community recreation. It's much more than just a park; it's a cherished local institution, especially during the warmer months when its unique wave pool and water attractions become the epicenter of family enjoyment. As countless delighted visitors attest, Willson’s Woods Park is an "amazing place if you want to have a wonderful time with your family," promising a "good day" that's "💯 recommended."

Willson's Woods Park holds a special place in the history of Westchester County's park system, being one of its oldest and most enduring assets. Acquired in 1924, it was named after Charles Hill Willson of the Willson & Adams Lumber Co., the land's former owner. The park's development was ambitious for its time, culminating in 1928 with the completion of its iconic bathhouse and a one million-gallon pool. The two-story bathhouse itself is a notable feature, designed in an elegant English Tudor revival style, featuring a striking combination of brick, stone, wood, and stucco. This historic architectural gem adds a unique character to the park, blending recreational modernity with timeless charm.

Today, Willson's Woods Park continues to serve generations of families, evolving with the times while retaining its core appeal. Its reputation as a "clean really great family park" is well-earned, offering not just a place to swim but a comprehensive outdoor experience. With facilities for picnicking, barbecuing, and its famous aquatic attraction, Willson’s Waves, the park provides a versatile outdoor escape for New Yorkers looking to cool off, relax, and create lasting family memories. It’s a quintessential summer destination that embodies the joy of community and outdoor leisure.

Willson’s Woods Park is conveniently located in Mount Vernon, a vibrant city within Westchester County, New York. Its address is 8 Bradford Rd, Mt Vernon, NY 10553, USA. This placement makes it easily accessible for residents of Mount Vernon, neighboring Bronx communities, and other parts of Westchester. The park’s location in the 10553 Zip Code places it within a well-established residential area, contributing to its local appeal as a convenient family destination.

Accessibility by public transportation is a key advantage for visitors to Willson’s Woods Park. While specific bus routes directly to the park entrance may vary, Mount Vernon is well-connected by the Bee-Line bus system, which operates extensively throughout Westchester County and connects to parts of the Bronx. Key bus lines likely pass near or within a reasonable walking distance of the park, making it feasible for those without personal vehicles to reach the facilities. Furthermore, Mount Vernon is served by Metro-North Railroad, with stations like Mount Vernon East and Mount Vernon West offering train service to Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. For visitors coming from New York City, a combination of Metro-North and a short bus or taxi ride would typically provide a straightforward route to the park.

For those driving, Willson’s Woods Park is easily reachable from major roadways in Westchester County, including the Hutchinson River Parkway and Cross County Parkway, which provide efficient routes from various parts of the Bronx and other suburbs. The park offers a well-sized parking lot for visitors, although it's important to note that a Westchester County Park Pass may be required for parking, especially during peak seasons. This combination of robust public transit options and convenient road access ensures that Willson’s Woods Park is a highly accessible destination for families seeking recreation and fun in the New York metropolitan area.

• Willson's Waves Waterpark: The park's main attraction, featuring a one-million-gallon wave pool that generates three-foot waves for a dynamic swimming experience. It also includes two 18-foot-high water slides for thrilling splashdowns.

• Interactive Water Playground: A dedicated area for younger children, equipped with sprays, fountains, cascades, and water "curtains" for engaging water play.

• Spray Deck: A level surface with 57 different spray heads, offering an ideal and accessible spot for all ages to cool off without deep water.

• Picnic Areas: Abundant "plenty of spaces" for picnicking are available, making it perfect for family outings, group gatherings, and birthday parties.

• BBQ Facilities: Guests are welcome to barbecue, adding to the enjoyment of picnics and outdoor gatherings.

• Historic Bathhouse: A beautifully designed English Tudor revival style bathhouse provides convenient changing facilities and restrooms for pool users.

• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available for park visitors.

• Fishing and Birding Opportunities: Pelham Lake within the park offers a serene spot for fishing and observing local birdlife, including mallards and Canada geese.

• Walking Paths: A network of paths provides opportunities for tranquil walks and nature study throughout the park.

• Leashed Dog Access: The park is a favored spot for locals to bring leashed dogs for a stroll, contributing to its community-friendly atmosphere.

• Willson's Waves Aquatic Attraction: This is arguably the most prominent feature. The "wave pool" with its "three-foot waves so enjoyable for your kids" and the "18-foot high water slide" provide a unique and thrilling aquatic experience not commonly found in local parks. It transforms a typical pool day into a mini-waterpark adventure.

• Historic and Architectural Significance: As one of the oldest parks in the Westchester County system (acquired in 1924), Willson's Woods boasts a "beautiful bathhouse set along the local road." Completed in 1928 and designed in an English Tudor revival style, this striking structure of brick, stone, wood, and stucco adds a significant historical and aesthetic dimension to the park.

• Ample Picnic and BBQ Space: Reviewers consistently highlight the "plenty of spaces if you want a picnic" and the ability to "BBQ." This makes the park an ideal destination for large family gatherings, birthday parties, or simply a relaxed outdoor meal, offering flexibility and convenience that many urban green spaces lack.

• Cleanliness and Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Praised as a "clean really great family park," Willson’s Woods consistently receives positive feedback on its upkeep. This dedication to cleanliness, combined with its diverse amenities, fosters a welcoming and safe environment for families with children, making it a reliable choice for a day out.

• Versatile Recreation for All Ages: Beyond the waterpark, the park offers something for everyone. From active fun on the water slides and wave pool to serene activities like fishing and birding at Pelham Lake, and tranquil walking paths, it caters to a wide range of interests, ensuring a fulfilling visit for various family members.

• Accessibility for Westchester Residents: The requirement for a Westchester County Park Pass for parking, or a valid NY State driver's license showing Westchester address for the water park, emphasizes its focus on serving local county residents, making it a true community resource for those living in the area.

As a public park operated by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Willson’s Woods Park does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the same way a private business might. Its core "offer" is public access to its extensive facilities, often at a nominal fee or with specific passes for county residents.

However, there are several "special offers" or benefits related to its operation and access for local users:

• Season Swimming Pass: For frequent visitors, purchasing a season swimming pass for Willson's Waves offers a cost-effective way to enjoy unlimited access to the wave pool and water attractions throughout the summer months. This is a significant "promotion" for families planning multiple visits.

• Westchester County Park Pass Benefits: While parking may require a county park pass, this pass itself can be seen as an "offer" for Westchester residents, providing discounted or free access to various county parks and facilities, including Willson's Woods. A valid New York State driver's license showing a Westchester address can also grant access to the water park, offering a convenient alternative to a separate park pass for county residents.

• Free Community Events: Although not specifically advertised, county parks often host free community events, environmental programs, or recreational activities throughout the year. Visitors should check the Westchester County Parks official website or local listings for any such "special offers" that might take place at Willson’s Woods Park.

• Group Permit Office: For larger gatherings, the availability of a Group Permit Office at DeMatteo Terrace (associated with Westchester County Parks) allows for organized events and ensures proper arrangements for picnics and parties, which can be seen as a valuable "service offer" for community groups and families.

For the most accurate and current information on passes, fees, and any specific seasonal programs, it is highly recommended to visit the official Westchester County Parks website (parks.westchestergov.com) or contact Willson’s Woods Park directly.

For any inquiries regarding Willson’s Woods Park, including details about Willson’s Waves, picnic area reservations, hours of operation, or park passes, you can contact the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, which manages the park.

Address: 8 Bradford Rd, Mt Vernon, NY 10553, USA

Phone: (914) 813-6990

Mobile Phone: +1 914-813-6990

These phone numbers connect to the general information line for Westchester County Parks, which can direct your query to the appropriate department or provide direct answers. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information, including seasonal operating hours (which vary significantly for the waterpark), specific amenity availability, and rules regarding barbecuing or group events, visiting the official Westchester County Parks website (parks.westchestergov.com) is highly recommended. The website often has detailed pages for individual parks, including Willson's Woods, providing current alerts and event schedules.

Willson’s Woods Park is exceptionally suitable for locals in the New York region, particularly those in Westchester County and the Bronx, offering a multifaceted recreational experience that caters directly to the needs of urban and suburban families. Its suitability is grounded in several key aspects that make it a cherished community asset.

Firstly, its primary appeal, Willson's Waves, provides an unparalleled summer escape right in the backyard of Mount Vernon. The wave pool, water slides, and interactive water playground offer thrilling and refreshing entertainment that rivals larger, more distant waterparks, all within easy reach. For New York families looking to beat the summer heat without extensive travel or exorbitant costs, this aquatic feature is a major draw and a significant convenience.

Secondly, beyond the water, the park's extensive picnic areas and BBQ facilities make it an ideal venue for family gatherings, celebrations, and casual outdoor meals. The abundance of space, as highlighted by reviewers, means locals can enjoy a relaxed day out with friends and family, a valuable commodity in densely populated areas. The ability to "BBQ" adds a personal touch to outdoor recreation that many appreciate.

Furthermore, the park's status as a "clean really great family park" and its historic charm, exemplified by the beautiful Tudor-style bathhouse, contribute to a pleasant and aesthetically pleasing environment. This attention to maintenance and preservation ensures a high-quality experience. The provision for activities like fishing, birding, and walking paths caters to a broader range of interests, allowing families to enjoy diverse forms of recreation.

Finally, its accessibility via both public transportation and major roadways, coupled with parking options (even if a county pass is required), makes it a practical choice for day trips. The focus on serving Westchester residents, as indicated by pass requirements, reinforces its role as a dedicated community resource. Willson’s Woods Park is more than just a public space; it's a vibrant hub where locals can connect with nature, enjoy active recreation, and create cherished memories, making it an indispensable part of the New York metropolitan area's recreational landscape.

Willson’s Woods Park

8 Bradford Rd, Mt Vernon, NY 10553, USA