🌤 Weather at Sunken Meadow State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31–70 °F | 60–83 °F | 39–74 °F | 24–43 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Centerport, 6 mi away, elevation 30 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Sunken Meadow State Park (officially Governor Alfred E. Smith State Park) is a 1,287-acre coastal gem on Long Island’s north shore, where three miles of beach meet the calm waters of the Long Island Sound, glacier-formed bluffs rise 70 feet above the shore, and a lush salt marsh gives the park its evocative name. Just an hour from New York City, Sunken Meadow is one of Long Island’s most beloved parks — and the northern starting point of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail.
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Location | Smithtown, Suffolk County, Long Island, NY |
| Park Size | 1,287 acres |
| Beach | 3 miles along Long Island Sound |
| Boardwalk | 3/4 mile along the beach |
| Trails | ~6 miles (hiking, cycling, mountain biking) |
| Long Trail | Northern trailhead of Long Island Greenbelt Trail |
| Key Features | Sunken Meadow salt marsh, glacier bluffs, Sound views |
| Views | Connecticut visible across the Sound on clear days |
| Nearest City | Smithtown / Kings Park, NY |
Beach & Boardwalk
Three miles of beach front the calm, family-friendly waters of the Long Island Sound. The 3/4-mile boardwalk is perfect for measured walks with Sound views. At the western end, the shoreline meets dramatic glacier-formed bluffs — remnants of the last Ice Age.
- Kayaking, windsurfing, SUP, canoeing — launch from Field 3 (eastern portion)
- Swimming — calm Sound waters, family-friendly
- On clear days, Connecticut is visible across the Sound
Trails & Hiking
| Trail | Distance | Highlights |
| Nissequogue River Loop | 4.2 mi | River and wooded paths |
| Wetland Trail | 3.3 mi | Boardwalks, marsh views, wildlife |
| Sunken Meadow Creek Marsh Trail | 3.3 mi | Wetlands exploration |
| Long Island Greenbelt Trail | Thru-hike | Extends to LI’s south shore |
The park’s varied terrain — wooded hills, salt marshes, bluffs, shoreline — creates surprisingly diverse hiking for Long Island. The famous “Cardiac Hill” is a notable incline used in high school cross-country races.
The Sunken Meadow
The park’s namesake sunken meadow is a picturesque salt marsh where Sunken Meadow Creek meets the Sound. Bridges cross the creek, and the marsh habitat supports diverse birdlife including herons, egrets, and shorebirds.
Insider Tips
- Walk the boardwalk at sunset — Long Island Sound sunsets are spectacular
- Start the Long Island Greenbelt Trail here — a multi-day thru-hike option across LI
- The Wetland Trail is excellent for birding in spring and fall migration
- Arrive early on summer weekends — parking fills fast at this popular beach park
- Explore the glacier bluffs at the western end of the beach for geology and views
Explore More New York State Parks
Discover more in our Best State Parks in New York guide, or use our Park Finder.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Nissequogue River State Park (a short drive away) and Caleb Smith State Park Preserve (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Sunken Meadow State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 ft required, pet under control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on guarded beaches, boardwalks, pools or spray-grounds
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- No uniform statewide rule — pets are prohibited in buildings and most cabins, but some parks designate pet-friendly cabin areas (e.g. Letchworth Cabin Area C); check with the individual park
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Proof of rabies vaccination required upon request; maximum two pets per campsite; some parks (e.g. Wildwood State Park) do not allow pets at all
Are dogs allowed at Sunken Meadow State Park?
Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ny.gov. More: New York state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Sunken Meadow State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
