New York
Heckscher State Park
🌅 Trusted Guide to Long Island’s Bayfront Park – Updated 2025
Where Long Island Meets the Great South Bay
On the south shore of Long Island near East Islip, Heckscher State Park encompasses 1,657 acres along the Great South Bay with stunning views of Fire Island across the water. The park combines calm bayfront swimming, seasonal camping with beachfront cottages, four miles of paved multi-use trails, and vast open fields for sports and picnicking. As the southern terminus of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail (31 miles from Sunken Meadow), Heckscher is both a destination beach park and a connector to Long Island’s expansive trail network.
Bay Swimming & Water Sports
- Bay beach: Calm Great South Bay waters — family-friendly swimming with Fire Island views
- Boat launch: Ramp access to the Great South Bay for powerboats and sailboats
- Kayaking & Canoeing: Sheltered bay waters perfect for paddling
- Saltwater fishing: Surf casting and boat-based fishing in the bay
Camping & Trails
- Seasonal campsites: Tent and trailer sites, some with electric hookups
- Beachfront cottages: Three-season units directly on the bay
- 4 miles of paved trails: Walking, jogging, cycling, and nature observation
- Greenbelt Trail: Southern terminus of the 31-mile Long Island Greenbelt from Sunken Meadow
- Open fields: Soccer, cricket, lacrosse, and large group picnic areas
Practical Tips
- From NYC (45 miles): Take Southern State Parkway to Heckscher State Parkway South to the park
- Entry fee: $8 per vehicle (seasonal — weekends April-November, daily Memorial Day-Labor Day)
- Parking fills fast on summer weekends — arrive early or visit midweek
- The bay water is warmer and calmer than ocean beaches — excellent for young children
- Winter cross-country skiing on park trails when conditions allow
- Combine with a Fire Island ferry from nearby Bay Shore for a barrier island day trip
Last updated: February 20, 2026
