Calverton, New York
Calverton, a rural hamlet straddling the towns of Riverhead and Brookhaven in Suffolk County, is a unique blend of agriculture, aviation history, woodlands, and fast-growing commercial development. Known for its open space, farms, and former Grumman test facilities, Calverton sits at the crossroads of Long Island’s North Fork and South Shore, making it both a quiet residential community and a strategic gateway to the East End.
With preserved natural areas, recreation sites, wineries within minutes, and proximity to Riverhead’s major shopping and attractions, Calverton has become a desirable location for residents seeking space, affordability, and access to everything the East End has to offer.
History of Calverton
Calverton’s roots trace back to farmland and pine barrens, but its most defining role came in the mid-20th century when it became home to Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation’s Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP). The facility was central to the testing and completion of military aircraft- most famously the F-14 Tomcat – until operations wound down in the 1990s.
After the plant’s closure, thousands of acres were transferred for mixed use, including parks, nature preserves, industrial development, and what is now the Enterprise Park at Calverton (EPCAL). Today, Calverton continues to balance preservation with innovation as new proposals and projects shape the region’s economic future.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Calverton
Splish Splash Water Park (Nearby in Riverhead)
A major seasonal attraction with:
- Dozens of water slides
- Wave pools & lazy rivers
- Family and thrill rides
- Dining areas and cabanas
While technically in Riverhead, it is widely associated with the Calverton area.
Calverton National Cemetery
One of the nation’s largest national cemeteries, known for:
- Beautiful, expansive grounds
- Veteran memorial events
- Quiet, respectful environment
Long Island Sports Park
Known for unique outdoor events such as:
- Mud runs
- Obstacle races
- Festivals and family events
Calverton Ponds Preserve
A rare ecological area featuring:
- Pine barrens habitat
- Hiking trails
- Endangered plant species
- A unique ecosystem protected by The Nature Conservancy
Farms, Wineries & Outdoor Recreation
Calverton is surrounded by:
- Local farm stands
- Pick-your-own fields
- Vineyards and wine tasting rooms (minutes away)
- Kayaking and nature viewing in the Peconic River area
Community & Lifestyle
Calverton offers:
- Quiet residential streets
- Larger property sizes than western Suffolk
- A mix of single-family homes, condos, and manufactured home communities
- Quick access to major shopping in Riverhead
- Natural and agricultural landscapes rarely found in more densely populated parts of Long Island
The vibe is rural-suburban—slower paced, spacious, and community-focused.
Schools Serving Calverton
Calverton is served primarily by the Riverhead Central School District, which includes:
- Riley Avenue Elementary School (located in Calverton)
- Riverhead Middle School
- Riverhead High School
Some sections of Calverton may fall within neighboring districts depending on exact location.
Transportation
Calverton is well-positioned for East End travel.
Major Roads
- Long Island Expressway (I-495)
- Route 25
- Route 25A (nearby)
- William Floyd Parkway
Airport
- Calverton Executive Airpark (EPCAL Runways) – Not open to commercial travel but frequently discussed in redevelopment proposals.
- Long Island MacArthur Airport (about 35 minutes west)
Parks & Natural Areas
Calverton offers easy access to outdoor recreation including:
- Calverton Ponds Preserve
- Grumman Memorial Park
- Peconic River canoeing and kayaking launch sites
- Nearby Pine Barrens trails
- Local farms and nature viewing areas
Shopping, Dining & Nearby Destinations
While Calverton itself is more rural, it borders the commercial center of Riverhead, offering:
- Tanger Outlets
- Big box stores
- Restaurants, breweries, and cafés
- Entertainment, hotels, and nightlife
- Riverhead Aquarium (Long Island Aquarium)
This makes Calverton a quiet community with quick access to busy hubs.
Real Estate Overview
Calverton’s real estate is diverse, with:
- Traditional single-family homes
- Condos and 55+ communities
- Manufactured home developments
- Acreage and agricultural land
- Residential streets close to Riverhead commerce
- Rural pockets surrounded by woods and farmland
Homes tend to be more affordable compared to Hamptons and North Fork markets.
Vicinity of Calverton, NY
Key Facts & Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Split between the Towns of Riverhead & Brookhaven, Suffolk County |
| ZIP Codes | 11933, 11901 (some overlap) |
| Known For | EPCAL/Grumman history, farms, preserves, proximity to East End |
| Major Parks | Calverton Ponds Preserve, Grumman Memorial Park |
| School District | Riverhead Central School District |
| Nearby Attractions | Splish Splash, Long Island Aquarium, Tanger Outlets |
| Population | Approx. 6,000–8,000 (hamlet estimate) |
Calverton offers a distinctive blend of open landscapes, historical significance, and modern convenience, making it one of Suffolk County’s most interesting East End communities. Its combination of preserved natural areas, agricultural roots, and ongoing redevelopment at EPCAL gives the hamlet both character and future potential. Whether you’re exploring its parks, visiting nearby attractions, or considering a place to live with more space and quiet, Calverton provides a unique gateway to the East End of Long Island.
