Brookhaven State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NY

Brookhaven State Park

Brookhaven State Park offers extensive natural spaces on Long Island, featuring diverse habitats and a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

State Park1,4754+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,475

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Brookhaven State Park

Brookhaven State Park offers extensive natural spaces on Long Island, featuring diverse habitats and a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Brookhaven State Park is located on the central South Shore of Long Island, New York, occupying a large tract of land in Suffolk County. The park encompasses a variety of ecosystems including forested areas, wetlands, ponds, and open fields, providing habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals, and other wildlife. Established to preserve a portion of Long Island's natural environment, the park is integral in maintaining the ecological health of the region. It serves as a natural buffer zone against urban and suburban development and offers residents and visitors an extensive area for outdoor recreation. The park’s expansive trail system allows for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, with scenic views of freshwater ponds and diverse flora. Brookhaven State Park is situated near other protected areas, creating green corridors important for wildlife movement and biodiversity. Additionally, the park supports fishing and seasonal birdwatching, making it a favored destination for nature enthusiasts. Facilities within the park are minimal, preserving its quiet and wild character, and encouraging visitors to engage in low-impact activities. Its accessibility from surrounding towns attracts families, casual hikers, and outdoor adventurers looking for a peaceful natural setting close to Long Island’s populated areas.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Brookhaven State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Long, wooded multi-use trail network ideal for hiking and equestrian use✦ Freshwater ponds supporting local fish species and seasonal waterfowl✦ Large contiguous natural area on Long Island supporting protected habitats✦ Quiet, off-the-beaten-path areas ideal for concentrated wildlife observation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Brookhaven State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Horseback Riding

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Brookhaven State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Brookhaven State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Brookhaven State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required for day use

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Brookhaven State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Brookhaven, New York
⌖ 1.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brookhaven, New York

Brookhaven offers coastal and forest adventures from hiking and biking to paddling peaceful bays. Its diversity of parks, waterways, and beaches makes it a versatile outdoor destination on Long Island’s South Shore.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Bellport, New York
⌖ 3.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellport, New York

Bellport, New York, is a quiet coastal village perfect for paddling, fishing, and bird watching along Long Island’s Great South Bay. Enjoy gentle hikes, biking routes, and tranquil water adventures in a scenic, laid-back setting.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Shirley, New York
⌖ 3.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shirley, New York

Shirley, NY offers quiet beach walks, peaceful paddling spots, and access to the Long Island Pine Barrens. This coastal town is perfect for travelers seeking nature hikes, birdwatching, and fishing away from busy tourist hubs.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Patchogue, New York
⌖ 5.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Patchogue, New York

Patchogue, New York offers coastal outdoor fun with paddling, biking, and fishing along Long Island’s south shore. Enjoy waterfront parks, birdwatching, and local trails in a lively village setting perfect for casual adventure.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Mastic Beach, New York
⌖ 5.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mastic Beach, New York

Mastic Beach offers peaceful coastal recreation with gentle beaches, paddling in Great South Bay, and nature-rich hiking nearby. Ideal for travelers seeking relaxed outdoor adventure on Long Island’s south shore.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Ridge, New York
⌖ 6.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridge, New York

Ridge is a peaceful Long Island town offering easy hiking, cycling, and kayaking near protected pine barrens and coastal parks. It’s ideal for travelers seeking relaxed outdoor activities close to nature.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Brookhaven State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.