West Hills County Park
West Hills County Park is a 1,654-acre park located in West Hills in the Town of Huntington, Suffolk County. As one of the largest and most diverse parks on Long Island, it is known for its extensive trail network, horseback riding facilities, fishing ponds, scenic woodlands, and the summit of Jayne’s Hill, the island’s highest natural point.
The park attracts hikers, equestrians, birdwatchers, photographers, anglers, and families seeking a peaceful outdoor escape. Its rolling terrain, mature forests, and protected open space make it one of Suffolk County’s premier destinations for year-round recreation.
History
West Hills County Park preserves a significant portion of Long Island’s historic glacial landscape and hardwood forests. The property was assembled over many years by Suffolk County to protect open space while providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Today, the park remains one of the county’s most important natural preserves.
The park is also closely associated with nearby Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, reflecting the area’s long cultural and historical significance.
Things to Do
Visitors enjoy miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, wetlands, meadows, and rolling hills. The park’s trail system connects several scenic overlooks and natural features, including Jayne’s Hill, where visitors can reach the highest elevation on Long Island.
Fishing is permitted in the park’s freshwater ponds, while designated picnic areas provide places to relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Wildlife viewing is popular throughout the year, with deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, hawks, and other native species frequently seen throughout the park.
Horseback Riding
West Hills County Park is one of Long Island’s premier equestrian destinations. The park contains extensive bridle trails that wind through wooded terrain, along with riding facilities operated by DDR Farm, where visitors can participate in horseback riding lessons, guided trail rides, boarding, and equestrian programs.
The combination of wooded trails and dedicated equestrian facilities makes the park a favorite destination for riders throughout the region.
Nature and Wildlife
The park protects hundreds of acres of mature hardwood forest, wetlands, open meadows, and freshwater habitats. Seasonal wildflowers, migrating birds, native mammals, and diverse plant communities provide excellent opportunities for nature photography, birdwatching, and environmental education.
Its protected landscape also contributes to groundwater recharge and wildlife conservation while preserving one of the largest remaining natural areas in western Suffolk County.
Facilities
West Hills County Park offers hiking trails, horseback riding trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, athletic fields, playgrounds, restrooms, parking, and seasonal comfort stations. Trail maps and informational signage are available throughout much of the park to help visitors navigate its extensive trail system.
Location
The park is located off Sweet Hollow Road in West Hills, just minutes from Melville, Huntington, and Dix Hills. It is easily accessible from the Long Island Expressway and the Northern State Parkway.
West Hills County Park
Key Facts & Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | West Hills, Town of Huntington, Suffolk County |
| Park Size | Approximately 1,654 acres |
| Managed By | Suffolk County Parks Department |
| Known For | Jayne’s Hill, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, woodlands, scenic trails |
| Highest Elevation | Jayne’s Hill, the highest natural point on Long Island |
| Popular Activities | Hiking, horseback riding, fishing, birdwatching, photography, picnicking |
| Facilities | Trails, equestrian facilities, fishing ponds, playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, parking |
| Nearby Attractions | Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, Mount Misery Road, Jayne’s Hill |
West Hills County Park showcases some of Long Island’s finest natural scenery, combining forests, hills, ponds, and recreational facilities within one of Suffolk County’s largest public parks. Whether hiking to the summit of Jayne’s Hill, enjoying a horseback ride through wooded trails, or simply spending a quiet afternoon outdoors, the park offers memorable experiences for visitors throughout every season.
