Connetquot River State Park Preserve

questrian trails are available, and the park provides a unique opportunity for riders to experience Long Island’s preserved landscapes.
Visitors enjoying horseback riding along one of Connetquot River State Park Preserve’s many wooded trails in Oakdale, New York. questrian trails are available, and the park provides a unique opportunity for riders to experience Long Island’s preserved landscapes. File photo: Joe Trentacosti, licensed.

Connetquot River State Park Preserve is one of Long Island’s most treasured natural landscapes, spanning more than 3,400 acres of protected woodlands, wetlands, and the scenic Connetquot River. Known for its pristine fly fishing waters, historic sites, and miles of hiking and equestrian trails, the preserve offers visitors an authentic glimpse of Long Island’s natural heritage.

Snapshot: Quick Facts

  • Location: Oakdale, Suffolk County, Long Island, NY
  • Size: ~3,473 acres
  • Established: 1963 (designated as a state park preserve in 1978)
  • Notable Features: Connetquot River, South Side Sportsmen’s Club Historic District, extensive hiking and bridle trails
  • Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, fly fishing (by permit only), historic tours
  • Managed by: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

History

The preserve has deep roots in Long Island history. It was once the private domain of the South Side Sportsmen’s Club, a 19th-century retreat for wealthy industrialists and politicians who came for its trout-filled river and rustic seclusion. In 1963, New York State acquired the land, and in 1978 it became Long Island’s first state-designated park preserve, emphasizing conservation and low-impact recreation.

The South Side Sportsmen’s Club Historic District — including club buildings, cottages, and a grist mill — is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving the legacy of this elite recreational era.

Natural Environment

Connetquot River State Park Preserve is a sanctuary for both people and wildlife. The preserve protects the headwaters of the Connetquot River, Long Island’s largest freshwater river system.

Habitats include:

  • Pine-oak woodlands
  • Freshwater wetlands and ponds
  • Grasslands that attract migratory birds

The preserve is home to species such as osprey, red-tailed hawks, wild turkey, and white-tailed deer. Birdwatchers often visit in spring and fall for peak migration activity.

Activities & Recreation

  • Hiking & Trails: Over 50 miles of marked trails wind through the preserve, accommodating hikers, birdwatchers, and horseback riders. The flat terrain makes it suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
  • Horseback Riding: Equestrian trails are available, and the park provides a unique opportunity for riders to experience Long Island’s preserved landscapes.
  • Fly Fishing: The Connetquot River is legendary for its trout fishing. Access requires a special permit, and fishing is strictly catch-and-release to protect the ecosystem. Anglers must reserve time slots in advance.
  • Winter Recreation: In snowy conditions, the preserve’s trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Visitor Information

  • Address: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Oakdale, NY 11769
  • Hours: Open year-round, typically sunrise to sunset (check seasonal hours).
  • Admission: Vehicle use fee applies (usually charged in peak season).
  • Fishing Permits: Required and available by reservation only.
  • Accessibility: Trails are mostly natural, with limited paved access.

Nearby Attractions

  • Bayard Cutting Arboretum – Another Oakdale gem, offering curated gardens and scenic riverfront views.
  • Heckscher State Park – A short drive south, with picnic areas, sports fields, and Great South Bay access.
  • Fire Island – Reachable from nearby ferry terminals for a day trip to the barrier island’s beaches and villages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Connetquot River open year-round?
Yes, the preserve is open in all seasons, with activities ranging from hiking to cross-country skiing.

Can I fish without a permit?
No. Fishing is strictly regulated; you must have a valid reservation and permit.

Are pets allowed?
No. To protect the preserve’s sensitive ecosystems, pets are not permitted.

Is biking allowed?
No, bicycles are not allowed on the preserve’s trails to maintain a natural environment.

What wildlife can I see?
Birds of prey, songbirds, wild turkeys, deer, and other native Long Island species.

Connetquot River State Park Preserve Snapshot

  • Location: Oakdale, Suffolk County, Long Island, NY
  • Size: ~3,473 acres
  • Established: 1963 (designated preserve in 1978)
  • Main Features: Connetquot River, South Side Sportsmen’s Club Historic District
  • Activities: Hiking, Birdwatching, Horseback Riding, Fly Fishing (permit only), Cross-Country Skiing
  • Wildlife: Osprey, Red-Tailed Hawks, Wild Turkey, White-Tailed Deer
  • Managed by: NY State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation