Yorktown

For New Yorkers seeking a refreshing escape into nature without venturing too far from home, Yorktown State Park offers an inviting and accessible destination. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Yorktown, NY, this expansive state park provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and connecting with the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley. Formerly known as Mohansic State Park, it’s a true local gem, offering a wide array of activities for individuals, families, and groups looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Yorktown State Park is more than just a green space; it's a vibrant hub of activity and tranquility. With its diverse terrain, including lush woodlands, open fields, and two significant bodies of water – Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond – the park presents a picturesque backdrop for all sorts of adventures. Whether you're looking for an invigorating hike, a peaceful day by the water, or a lively picnic with friends and family, Yorktown State Park caters to all preferences. Its history, dating back to acquisitions in the early 20th century and its transformation into the beloved Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in 1982, speaks to its enduring value as a community resource. This park truly embodies the spirit of accessible outdoor enjoyment for residents throughout the New York region.

Yorktown State Park, officially known as Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, is conveniently located at 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA. Situated approximately 40 miles north of New York City, it offers an easy and manageable drive for city dwellers and suburban residents alike. The park's strategic location in Westchester County makes it a prime spot for weekend getaways or even a spontaneous afternoon outing. For those relying on public transportation, options may involve a combination of train and local bus services, though driving is generally the most straightforward way to reach the park, with ample parking available on site.

The park is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that a broad range of visitors can enjoy its offerings. Many of the picnic shelters and designated picnic areas, such as 1D, 5D, and 6F, are compliant with ADA guidelines. The park's prominent swimming pool also features a chair lift to enhance accessibility, allowing more individuals to partake in aquatic activities. Furthermore, the Town of Yorktown is actively developing an adaptive playground at Granite Knolls, which will feature accessible play gear for children of all abilities, furthering the commitment to inclusivity within the local park system. While some natural trails may have varied terrain, efforts are continuously made to provide accessible paths and facilities where possible, making Yorktown State Park a welcoming destination for everyone.

Yorktown State Park provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities to enhance the visitor experience. These include:

• Picnic Areas and Pavilions: The park boasts numerous spacious picnic areas capable of accommodating hundreds of people, perfect for family gatherings, company picnics, or simply a casual outdoor meal. Many areas feature picnic shelters and grilling facilities.
• Swimming Pool: A mammoth swimming pool with the capacity for several thousand bathers offers a refreshing escape during warmer months. Accessible features, like a chair lift, are available.
• Boating: Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond provide excellent opportunities for boating. Rowboat rentals are available during the season, and privately owned boats can be launched with a permit purchased at the park office.
• Fishing: Both Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond are popular spots for fishing, offering a tranquil pastime for anglers.
• Playing Fields and Playgrounds: Dedicated playing fields cater to various sports, while well-maintained playgrounds provide a safe and fun environment for children.
• Hiking and Walking Trails: A network of trails, including connections to the Mohansic Trailway and other local trail systems, provides opportunities for hiking, jogging, and leisurely walks amidst scenic natural surroundings.
• Disc Golf: The park features a disc golf course for enthusiasts of this growing sport.
• Food Concession: A food concession stand is available on-site, offering refreshments and snacks for visitors.
• Recreation Programs: The park and the Town of Yorktown Parks & Recreation Department often host various recreation programs and events throughout the year, catering to diverse interests and age groups.

Yorktown State Park's unique features and highlights contribute to its widespread appeal:

• Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond: These two beautiful bodies of water are central to the park's appeal, offering not only opportunities for boating and fishing but also picturesque views and a serene atmosphere.
• Extensive Picnic Facilities: The sheer scale and number of picnic areas, many with shelters and grills, make it an ideal location for large group gatherings and events, a rarity in many urban-adjacent parks.
• Large Swimming Pool: The park's massive pool is a significant draw, especially during the summer, providing ample space for thousands to cool off and enjoy aquatic recreation.
• Connective Trail Systems: The park serves as a nexus for several local trailways, including the Mohansic Trailway, which connects to the North County Trailway, part of the larger Empire State Trail. This offers extended opportunities for walking, biking, and exploring the region's natural beauty.
• Historic Significance: The park's land has historical roots, formerly hosting institutions and featuring remnants from a Civilian Conservation Corps camp during the Great Depression, adding a layer of historical interest for visitors.
• Natural Habitat: Beyond recreational facilities, the park preserves native woodlands and open fields, providing a habitat for various wildlife, including birds and butterflies, offering opportunities for nature observation and photography.

While Yorktown State Park itself may not always have ongoing "promotions" in the commercial sense, New York State Parks and Westchester County Parks offer various passes and programs that can significantly reduce costs for frequent visitors. For instance, the Empire Pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most New York State Parks and facilities, including Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park. Similarly, Westchester County Park Passes offer discounts on golf, pool and beach admissions, parking, camping, and boat launching at various county-owned facilities. Specific events, such as free outdoor concerts or special recreational programs, are often announced through the Town of Yorktown's Parks & Recreation Department. It’s always advisable for locals to check the official New York State Parks website and the Yorktown Parks & Recreation website for the latest information on passes, events, and any seasonal offers that might be available.

For more information on Yorktown State Park (Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park), you can contact them directly:

Address: Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA

Phone: (914) 245-4434

For general inquiries or information regarding programs and facilities managed by the Town of Yorktown Parks & Recreation, you can also reach out to:

Parks & Recreation Department: Albert A. Capellini Community and Cultural Center, Rooms 122 & 123, 1974 Commerce Street, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598

Phone: (914) 245-4650

Email: ypr@yorktownny.gov

Official Websites: It is highly recommended to visit the New York State Parks website (parks.ny.gov) and the Town of Yorktown website (yorktownny.gov/parksandrecreation) for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, permits, events, and any specific guidelines.

Yorktown State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for New York locals for several compelling reasons. Its close proximity to the metropolitan area, yet its ability to deliver a genuine sense of natural escape, makes it an unparalleled convenience. For those seeking respite from the urban bustle, the park offers a vast expanse of green space where one can breathe fresh air, engage in invigorating physical activity, or simply unwind amidst serene surroundings. The diverse range of activities, from competitive sports and lively group picnics to tranquil fishing and immersive nature walks, ensures that there's something to appeal to every age and interest within a family or friend group.

Moreover, the park's commitment to accessibility, with ADA-compliant facilities and ongoing initiatives like the adaptive playground, ensures that it truly serves as an inclusive community resource. It's a place where children can freely explore, where families can bond over shared outdoor experiences, and where individuals can find their personal slice of peace. The continuous efforts by the Town of Yorktown to enhance and maintain the park, along with the availability of various passes and programs, underscore its value as a cherished local asset. Yorktown State Park isn't just a destination; it's an integral part of the local lifestyle, offering a vibrant, accessible, and endlessly enjoyable natural retreat right in New York's backyard.

Yorktown

Yorktown, NY 10598, USA