Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Wheatley Hills Preserve is located in the Town of North Hempstead in Nassau County, New York, on the western part of Long Island. This preserve covers 242 acres of forests, wetlands, ponds, and rolling hills, providing a natural escape from the suburban landscape surrounding it. The terrain features a mix of hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory, alongside open meadows and freshwater ponds that support a wide variety of birds, amphibians, and small mammals. Historically, the preserve was part of a larger estate owned by the Wheatley family prior to becoming protected as a public nature preserve.
Visitors to Wheatley Hills Preserve can enjoy about 5 miles of maintained walking trails with moderate elevation changes, offering opportunities for hiking, trail running, and nature observation. The area is particularly well known for its rich bird population, including warblers, woodpeckers, and raptors visible during migration seasons. The preserve’s ponds and wetland areas provide habitat for amphibians and dragonflies, attracting naturalists and photographers. In winter, the trails remain accessible and offer peaceful snowshoeing opportunities.
Key landmarks include the overlook points offering views across the surrounding neighborhoods and open water areas, as well as old stone walls and foundations that hint at the land's agricultural past. The preserve is valued as an educational resource for nearby schools and conservation groups focused on native ecology and environmental stewardship. It continues to attract local residents and visitors interested in quiet outdoor experiences close to Long Island’s densely populated communities.
