THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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 30 miles.

Coastal Wonders at Charles Island★ 7.8⌖ 28 miHiking
Charles Island

Coastal Wonders at Charles Island

Explore the tidal island of Charles Island near Milford, CT, accessible by a tombolo during low tide. Known for birdwatching and historical lore, it offers unique views and a quiet retreat for nature lovers.

Housatonic River Fly Fishing in The Berkshires★ 7.5⌖ 29 miFly Fishing
The Berkshires

Housatonic River Fly Fishing in The Berkshires

Explore fly fishing at Housatonic River in The Berkshires. Known for its trout-filled waters and serene environment, it's an ideal spot for both seasoned anglers and newcomers. Best visited in spring or fall with drive-in access. Don't forget your fishing gear.

Fly FishingView Details→
Charming Waters of Thimble Islands★ 7.5⌖ 32 miKayaking
Thimble Islands

Charming Waters of Thimble Islands

Explore the charming Thimble Islands off Branford, CT. Ideal for kayaking and wildlife watching, these islands offer tidal views and historical allure. Access by boat only; best visited in spring or fall for a serene experience.

Tranquil Waters of Housatonic River★ 7.8⌖ 33 miCanoeing
Housatonic River

Tranquil Waters of Housatonic River

Explore the Housatonic River in Connecticut, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Enjoy hiking trails that offer stunning river views and fly fishing opportunities in Cornwall. Accessible from U.S. Route 7, this serene spot is best visited in spring and fall.

Discover the Heights at East Rock Park★ 7.8⌖ 36 miHiking
East Rock Park

Discover the Heights at East Rock Park

Explore East Rock Park in New Haven, CT. Known for hiking and biking, the park offers varied trails and stunning city views from a 366 ft ridge. Enjoy bird watching by the Mill River. Best visited in spring and fall.

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
⌖ 1.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brookhaven, New York

A diverse coastal town offering a blend of forested trails, waterways, and beaches ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both land and water adventures.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Bellport
⌖ 3.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellport, New York

A peaceful coastal village offering laid-back outdoor activities focused on water sports and nature exploration along Long Island's south shore.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Shirley
⌖ 3.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shirley, New York

A quiet Long Island community offering coastal outdoor opportunities and nearby forested trails, ideal for nature lovers seeking low-key adventures.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Patchogue
⌖ 5.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Patchogue, New York

A vibrant coastal town offering easy access to water-based activities, casual nature walks, and scenic bike rides along Long Island’s south shore.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Mastic Beach
⌖ 5.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mastic Beach, New York

A tranquil coastal community offering relaxed beachside recreation and water-based activities on Long Island’s south shore.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Ridge
⌖ 6.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridge, New York

A quiet suburban town offering easy access to green spaces, gentle hiking, and waterways, ideal for relaxed outdoor activities on Long Island.

Spring through FallExplore 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.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.