This 172 acre park is centrally located in the county and a perfect spot for group picnics. The Great Hunger Memorial “A section of V.E. Macy Park has been renamed so that the history of the Irish who fled to Westchester in the 1840s to escape poverty and famine will never be forgotten".
Point of Interest: The Great Hunger Memorial
Parks attractions include: Picnicking, Playground, "The Great Hunger Memorial"
Wampus Pond Park is located on 102 acres in Armonk, Westchester County. It is named after the Indian from whom this land was bought in 1696. Wampus Pond means “opossum". A recent cultural resources inventory performed by Parker Harrington indicates that early 20th century rock shelters, several Native American artifacts and remnants of historically significant residential developments were found within or near the park.
The natural pond, at one time known as Wampus Lake Reservoir, was once part of the New York City water supply. In 1963 the County bought Wampus pond and 93 acres from the City of New York.
Parks attractions include: Boating, Fishing, Ice-Skating, Nature Study, Picnicking
The Bear Mountain State Park is situated in rugged mountains rising from the west bank of the Hudson River. The historic Bear Mountain Inn overlooks Hessian Lake and provides fine food and overnight accommodations. This parks features include a large play field, shaded picnic groves, a dock on the Hudson for mooring small craft, lake and river fishing access, a zoo and nature park, hiking, biking, cross-country ski trails, and ski-jumps. An outdoor rink is open to ice skaters from late October through mid-March. Perkins Memorial Tower atop Bear Mountain affords spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park.
Special Attraction for kids: The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain State Park which features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Parks attractions include: Biking, Boat Rentals, Cross-Country Skiing. Dockage, Fishing, Food at the Bear Mountain Inn, Gift Shop, Hiking Trails / Walking, Ice Skating, Museum/Vistor Center, Nature Trail, Picnic Tables, Playground, Playing Fields, Pool
Bedford Village Memorial Park is located in the beautiful hamlet of Bedford Village. It is one of several parks in the municipality of Bedford that offer Summer Day Camp programs and many other activities.
Indian Hill Park is accessible from Paddock Lane in Bedford Village. It is one of several parks in the municipality of Bedford offering walking trails and natural areas.
Parks attractions include: Natural Areas, Hiking, Walking Trails
The Bronx Zoo is the flagship zoo of the largest network of metropolitan zoos in the country. The Bronx Zoo is the heart of the Wildlife Conservation Society and our work to save wildlife and wild places around the globe. With award-winning, cutting-edge exhibits featuring over 4,000 animals, there is no other zoo in the world that offers the diversity, superb viewing, and world-renowned expertise that assures a rewarding experience and the knowledge that visitors can make a difference in the world around them.
Whether you're nose-to-nose with Western lowland gorillas in our famous Congo Gorilla Forest , spotting snow leopards in our naturalistic Himalayan Highlands Habitat, or experiencing almost an acre of an indoor Asian rain forest, you're always within roaring distance of the world's most amazing wildlife. In the end, you'll know that your admission fees went to a conservation organization that has more expert researchers in the field than any other. Together, we make a difference.
The New York Botanical Garden is a National Historic Landmark. The 250-acre grounds of The New York Botanical Garden have some of the most beautiful natural terrain of any botanical garden in the world, including dramatic rock outcroppings, a river and waterfall, rolling hills, ponds, and a 50-acre remnant of the forest that once covered New York City. Among its 50 gardens and plant collections are an outstanding rose garden, perennial garden, and rock garden, as well as superb collections of daylilies, orchids, conifers, and flowering trees. Throughout the Garden's history, leading landscape and garden designers have contributed designs for individual gardens and collections.
The Garden is home to the nation's largest Victorian glasshouse, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, which opened to the public in 1902 and was named a New York City Landmark in 1973. It is home to A World of Plants, a permanent exhibition that includes tropical rain forests, deserts, and the world's most comprehensive collection of palm trees under glass. The Conservatory also houses the Garden's seasonal flowers shows, including the popular Orchid Show and Holiday Train Show.
The New York Botanical Garden is a grand museum of plants. A place to relax, rejuvenate, and experience the wonders of nature. A living “tip sheet” for your home garden. A worldwide leader in studying the Earth’s plant life.
The New York Botanical Garden is all of these things and a great deal more.
Founded in 1891, the Garden is one of the world’s great collections of plants, the region’s leading educational center for gardening and horticulture, and an international center for plant research. The Garden is alive with opportunities for discovery, from an "ecotour" of the world in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory to an innovative indoor/outdoor science museum for kids, to 50 exquisite gardens and plant collections.
The Trailside Nature Museum, established in 1937, is one of the oldest of its kind in the United States. The museum is home to a large collection of mounted animals, American Indian artifacts, educational exhibits, child-friendly interactive displays, and nature-oriented artwork. The museum hosts thousands of school children and scouts each year for a variety of educational programs including stream study, American Indian culture, maple sugaring, and badge work. Family-oriented nature programs are scheduled for the general public on nearly every weekend.
The Trailside Nature Museum is also the home of the Delaware Indian Research Center, a vast collection of books and artifacts concerning American Indians, especially the Delaware. The Research Center is well utilized by both students and educators and has assisted several authors in researching their publications. The Research Center is open to the public by appointment.
The Trailside Nature Museum is located at the 4,315-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, the county’s largest park. Park terrain is extremely varied, ranging from deep hollows to ridges that rise up more than 800 feet. There are hemlock gorges, dry uplands, wetlands, ponds, and two rivers, all connected by 35 miles of trails. Many of the old farm roads are now used as hiking and cross-country ski trails, and other signs of the old farms exist in the form of stonewalls, foundations and cellar pits.
Point of Interest: Directly outside the Trailside Nature Museum, there is a one-half acre wildflower garden containing more than 80 different kinds of labeled wildflowers.
Croton Gorge Park is a 97acre property at the base of the Croton Dam, and affords impressive views of the dam and spillway. The park is a popular spot for fishing, picnicking and hiking, with direct trail access to New York State’s Old Croton Aqueduct. The park is also available in winter for cross-country skiing and sledding.
Croton Point Park is a 508 acre park. This park offers year-round events and activities. including camping, hiking and swimming. Also, home of wine cellars, thought to be the oldest in NY and The Croton Point Nature Center which offers a year-round schedule of interpretive programs.
Parks attractions include: Camping, Hiking Trails / Walking, Nature Center, Swimming, Wine Cellars
Twin Lakes Park & Nature Study is located at California Road, Eastchester, New York. Twin Lakes Park & Nature Study offers a wooded nature study area with several trails.
Twin Lakes Park was named after the two lakes on the property. The property used to belong to the Mahlsted family and included an ice house. The park contains mostly wooded areas but there are also fields and marshlands and several ponds. Two stables hire out horses for riding on existing bridle trails.
Katonah Memorial Park located in Katonah is one of several parks in the municipality of Bedford offering walking trails and natural areas and many other activities.
Parks attractions include: Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Paddle Tennis, Playground, Picnicking, Shelter, Soccer, Summer Day Camp, Swimming Pool, Sledding, Tennis, Walking Trails
Flint Park is the primary recreational park in the Village of Larchmont. Flint Park has a variety of sports facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis, three baseball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, a picnic area, a playground for both toddlers and young children which was newly installed in the Fall of 2004, and a summer day camp for ages 6 to 14.
Every Thursday evening in July you can enjoy Concerts in the park. You are welcome to bring a picnic supper while you listen to the music.
Parks attractions include: Baseball Fields, Basketball, Paddle Tennis, Picnic Area, Playground, Soccer Fields, Summer Day Camp, Tennis
George’s Island Park is a 208 acre waterfront park offering magnificent views of the historic Hudson River. It contains tidal wetlands, a fresh water pond and wooded trails, and provides boat access to the Hudson River as well as areas for nature study and picnicking.
The Sportsman Center at Blue Mountain Reservation is the only public sportsman's recreation facility in Westchester County offering target areas for: Trap and Skeet, Large and Small Bore Rifle and Pistol Archery. The Center provides a safe and convenient site for practice shooting.
Willson's Woods Park is one of the oldest parks in Westchester County. Willson’s Woods is a 23-acre park offering a beautiful swimming pool and adjacent English Tudor style bathhouse along with areas for picnicking and fishing.
Point of Interest: A special feature of Willson's Woods Park is "Willson's Waves" where you can body surf on 3-foot waves in the county's first-ever wave pool. Splash downward on an 18-foot-high water slide, wander through cascades and fountains in the water playground, or just cool off on the spray deck.
Teatown Lake Reservation is a regional environmental organization with an 834-acre nature preserve and education center located in the towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt, and New Castle, New York. In addition to being the largest non-profit nature preserve in New York's Westchester County, Teatown is rapidly developing a reputation as the "Hudson Hills and Highlands" foremost environmental organization, providing ecological and biodiversity conservation leadership in this bioregion.
The Hudson Hills and Highlands is roughly bounded by the Hudson River watershed as it traverses the hills and highlands that run along the Hudson River Valley, from Yonkers in the south to the north at Beacon and Newburgh, New York. The bioregion covers parts of five Hudson Valley counties: Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland and Orange. However, nearly 80% of the region lies in Westchester and Putnam County. Its grounds include two lakes and over 15 miles of hiking trails through woodlands and meadows, streams and marsh habitats, all of which provide exciting educational opportunities.
Visit Wildflower Island. A two-acre wildflower sanctuary, home to hundreds of native and endangered species of wildflowers. Tours of the Island are led by experienced volunteer guides and are available from April 16th through September. Teatown’s abundant fields, mixed forests, lakes, streams, swamps and farm land provide a unique glimpse of the biological diversity of the region. Press "Blue Button" for more information about Teatown Lake Reservation.
Point of Interest: Teatowns's Nature Store has an excellent selection of children's science materials, toys and nature-related books, as well as adult gifts, cards, and stationary.
Park and Garden Attractions Birding, Hiking, Nature Center, Outdoor Animal Exhibits, Wildflower Island - over 230 native species of wildflowers.
Central Park is located in the very heart of New York City (Manhattan). Central Park's east side opens onto "Museum Mile" which includes the world famous "Metropolitan Museum of Art". Central Park's west side opens near New York City's Lincoln Center, home to The Metropolitan Opera House, New York Philharmonic, NYC Ballet, New York State Opera and more. The entrance on Central Park South is across from New York City's landmark Plaza Hotel. Walk a few blocks east and you will find yourself in one of the most renowned shopping areas in the world - the famed New York City's Fifth Avenue.
Central Park is located on 843 acres of beautifully landscaped park space sprinkled with wonderful statuary, classic architecture, the great lawn and more. With 25 million visitors each year, Central Park is the most frequently visited urban park in the United States. The park's many features include: the famous Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center, 21 Playgrounds, Walking Tours, Music in the Park, Recreation Programs. Sports such as Bicycle Riding, Birding, Chess, Cross Country Skiing, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Ice Skating, Row Boating, Swimming, Tennis, Wall Climbing are all availble. You can even take advantage of the many Nature Walks and Educational Programs. Press to see "Bloom Schedule"
Restaurants in Central Park Many casual eating-spots and fine dining restaurants such as "Tavern on the Green" are available in Central Park. Escape the bustle of NYC for a while and dine in an oasis of trees and flowers, or dine overlooking the lake. Press to see a list of "Restaurants in Central Park"
Just for Kids at Central Park Central Park is a wonderland for children with 21 Playgrounds, Boating, Climbing Walls, Ice Skating, Inline Skating, and don't forget that picnic while the kids play in the park. Select "Kids to Do" activities, or "Belvedere Castle" and the "Dana Discovery Center" for environmental programs. Click on "Recreation Programs" to discover the fun and exercise available including exciting Adventure programs. Press for more information on "Just for Kids"
The Carousel at Central Park Central Park's first carousel was built in 1870. After a long search the Parks Department discovered the present vintage Carousel. The Carousel is one of the largest in the United States, with 58 hand-carved, painted horses. Stein and Goldstein were among the foremost carvers of their day and the horses – nearly life-size in the outer ring – are caught rearing or mid-stride with almost fierce reality.
The Carousel today still holds its magic charm, with almost 250,000 riders a year. Both adults and children enjoy the scale of the horses and the brisk speed of the ride. During warm weather the admissions line snakes around hot dog and popcorn vendors, recalling the atmosphere of a country fair. The generations mingle and the calliope provides the traditional soundtrack. Press to see "The Carousel"
North Meadow Recreation Center at Central Park. The North Meadow Recreation Center, south of the Meadow, was originally built as stables. It was converted to a recreation facility in the early 1990s. At 23 acres, the North Meadow is the Park's largest open space, punctuated only by the clay fans of ballfields. Press for "Meadow Recreation Center"
Press "Blue Button" to enter the official site of New York City's Central Park.
Riverbank State Park is the only park of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Inspired by urban rooftop designs in Japan, this 28-acre multi-level landscaped recreational facility is a state-of-the-art park facility. Rising 69 feet above the Hudson River, Riverbank offers a wide variety of recreational, athletic and arts experiences for all ages, interests and abilities.
Housed in five major buildings are an Olympic-size pool, a covered skating rink for roller skating in the summer and ice-skating in the winter, an 800-seat cultural theater, a 2,500-seat athletic complex with fitness room, and a 150-seat restaurant.
Outdoor sports amenities include a 25-yard lap pool, a wading pool, four tennis courts, four basketball courts, a softball field, four hand/paddleball courts, and a 400-meter eight-lane running track with a football/soccer field.
Riverbank also boasts spectacular promenade views of the Hudson River, the Palisade Mountains and the George Washington Bridge. At water level, there is a 900-seat amphitheater and docking facilities for excursion and fishing boats.
Points of Interest: The "Totally Kid Carousel", created by Milo Mottola and 37 young children.
Parks attractions include: Carousel, Food, Gymnasium, Hiking, Ice Skating, Performing Arts Theater, Picnic Tables, Playground, Playing Fields, Pool, Recreation Programs, Showers, Tennis
The Hammond Museum was designed by Natalie Hays Hammond who borrowed the basic principles and ideas of the Stroll Garden incorporating indigenous plantings with popular and rare Japanese and Chinese specimens. "As people often travel to escape routine problems and obligations, or to escape themselves, so should they find peace in an unhurried journey through a stroll garden."
"To please the eye, there are the textures of stone scrolled with the delicate designs of lichen, the patterns of tree trunks and clusters of foliage, the play of light and shadow, the varying shades of green as well as the seasonal colors of great beauty. To please the ear, there are the songs of native birds, the hum of insects the chorale of frogs and the occasional splash of carp in the lake, the crunch of pebbles underfoot, the whisper of wind through the pines. To please the sense of scent, there are dry pine needles in the sun, the fragrance of flowering shrubs, a breeze through mimosa or the pungency of loam after a night rain."
The museum serves as an East-West cross-cultural center where, through programs and events, exhibits, music and art, Americans and peoples of the East and West can appreciate and share their heritage. The museum also seeks to showcase the talent of artists in the New York Metropolitan area. Collectors in the region are also encouraged to explore the exhibiting at the Hammond.
Points of Interest: Stroll Garden, Birding, Brush Painting, Children's Workshops, Educational Tours, Silk Tree Cafe
Mountain Lakes Park is Westchester’s northernmost county park. It is set on 1038 acres and is characterized by a rugged landscape and native hardwood forest with miles of trails. Situated in this lovely park is Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester. Mt. Baily offers breathtaking vistas in every season. The park offers many types of recreational activities including boating, group and self-reliant camping.
Parks attractions include: Boating, Camping, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Hiking Trails, Ice Skating, Mt. Bailey Westchester's Highest Point, Nature Study
Goosepond Mountain State Park is located in Orange County and is managed as 1,558 acres of open space. Almost completely wooded, the park is open to hikers and horseback riders. This park is undeveloped. There are no toilets and there is limited parking.
Highland Lakes State Park consists of more than 3,000 acres of undeveloped woods and lakes in Orange County. Visitors use the park for fishing, hiking, horseback riding and flying model planes. The park is undeveloped. There are no toilets and there is limited parking.
Parks attractions include: Bridle Path, Fishing, Hiking Trails
Sterling Forest® State Park comprises 17,953 acres of nearly pristine natural refuge amidst of one of the nation's most densely populated areas, a remarkable piece of woodland, a watershed for millions, and a tremendous outdoor recreation area. This unbroken deep-forest habitat is important for the survival of many resident and migratory species, including black bear, a variety of hawks and songbirds and many rare invertebrates and plants.
Parks attractions include: Biking, Boat Launch Sites, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Ice Fishing, Museum / Visitor Center, Recreation Programs, Snowshoeing
Storm King State Park offers unsurpassed views of the Catskills and the Hudson Valley. The park is undeveloped. There are no toilets and limited parking.
The Storm King State Park is located near The Storm King Art Center which is an outdoor museum that celebrates the relationship between sculpture and nature. Storm King comprises 500 pristine acres of carefully maintained fields, hills, and woodlands, on which more than 100 works by major international artists are thoughtfully sited. At Storm King, the exhibition space is defined by sky and land. See www.WestchesterTowns.com for more information on Storm King.
Parks attractions include: Hiking Paths / Walking, Hunting
The Blue Mountain Reservation is a 1500 acre park in the northwest section of Westchester County. It is primarily a passive park. It features miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking, walking, nature study and more. It also offers challenging hikes to the tops of two large peaks: Mt. Spitzenberg and Blue Mountain. The park contains a bathhouse and Trail Lodge, as well as two historically significant comfort stations. These comfort stations were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and are reminiscent of early 20th century National Park structures
Parks attractions include: Camping, Cross-Country Skiing, Equestrian Trails, Fishing, Hiking / Walking, Ice Skating, Mountain Biking, Nature Study, Playground, Picnicking, Sportman Center for Target Shooting Range
Glen Island Park is a 105 acre park located on the Long Island Sound, offering a variety recreational facilities including a foot beach, 18-hole miniature golf course, playground and picnicking area with a pavilion, and magnificent waterfront views.
The Pound Ridge Town Park is a beautiful local park offering many activities for adults and children of all ages. A Day Camp is available for a fun-filled and exciting summer. Other activities, such as exercise programs, bridge group, toddler art, little league, tennis, basketball, and other sports are open to all ages.
Parks attractions include: Ball Fields, Hiking Trails / Walking, Picnicking, Playground, Three Swimming Pools (Baby, mid-size and Olympic size pool for lap swimming and diving), Snack Bar, Showers, Tennis
The 4,315 acre park makes Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Westchester County’s largest park. The Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is divided in area between both Pound Ridge and Lewisboro. The northern one-third of the park is in Lewisboro and the remaining two-thirds of the park are in Pound Ridge.
With its varied terrain and landscapes and miles of wooded trails, the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides a variety of activities in all seasons. There are areas for picnicking, lean-to camping, fishing and cross-country skiing. The park is home to the Trailside Nature Museum, which hosts weekend nature interpretive programs year-round.
Park attractions include: Camping, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Hiking Trails / Walking, Museum, Nature study, Picnicking, Play equipment is available in two areas of the park.
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is wonderful for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086 acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, a beautiful beach, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming and Fahnestock Winter Park which includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Visitors with their own boats must obtain a Regional Boating permit at the Park Office. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. Although there are no hookups available or dump station, restroom and shower facilities are centrally located to all RV and tent sites. Individuals, as well as larger camping groups, are welcome. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
Fahnestock Winter Park is nestled in the 16,000 acre Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. Its 1,100 foot elevation allows the Park to capture additional snow during storms, and a northwest trail system helps it to retain a good snow base, providing visitors with a perfect location to cross country ski and snowshoe. There are 15 kilometers of groomed, tracked, and mapped trails for beginning as well as experienced skiers. Quality sledding tubes, snowshoes, skis (both classic and skate), boots, and poles are available for rental. Lessons for beginners to review equipment, basic motions and skills are available by reservation. The Acorn Cafe provides a warm and welcoming retreat for all outdoor enthusiasts. Light lunches, beverages, and snacks are available for purchase. The cozy lodge also houses restrooms and changing rooms.
Parks attractions include: The Acorn Cafe, Cross-Country Skiing, Nature Trail, Recreation Programs, Sledding, Snowshoeing
A mostly undeveloped preserve of nearly 6,000 acres, Hudson Highlands State Park consists of a series of separate parcels of land stretching from Annsville Creek in Peekskill, north to Dennings Point in Beacon. The spacious park is perfect for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and birding. The Hudson Highlands and Hudson River provide spectacular backdrops for the many activities that can be enjoyed here.
The park's extensive hiking trail network includes terrain that varies from easy to challenging. Trail maps can be obtained at the Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park office. The park’s most well known trail – Breakneck Ridge was rated by Newsweek as one of the top 10 day hikes in America. The 5.5 mile Breakneck Ridge trail rises 1,250 feet in only a ¾ mile stretch.
For visitors who wish to view the scenic park from the water, kayaks and canoes are available for rental at Annsville Creek Paddlesport Center in Cortlandt Manor. Rentals, as well as instruction, tours, and educational programs, are provided by Atlantic Kayak Tours. Visitors may also launch their own kayaks and canoes from the Annsville dock. Fishing from the dock is also permitted.
Points of Interest: One area of Hudson Highlands State Park, Bannerman Island, can only be accessed by water and explored via guided tour. Known originally as Pollepel Island, this island is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This majestic Hudson River landmark is home to Bannerman Castle, built by American entrepreneur Frank Bannerman VI between 1901 and 1918. For more information on visiting this unique site see Historic Sites at www.WestchesterTowns.com
The Anthony Wayne Recreation Areas is a wooded and scenic part of the beautiful Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties. Facilities include picnic areas with fireplaces, playing fields and cross-country ski and hiking trails.
Parks attractions include: Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Hiking Trails / Walking, Picnic Tables, Playing Fields
Beaver Pond Campgrounds adjoin the Lake Welch Recreation Area within Harriman State Park. The campgrounds include tent and trailer sites, as well as accommodations for larger vehicles. Comfort stations, showers, laundry facilities and a dumping station are part of the campgrounds. In 2005, this parks facility was named one of Reserve America's Top Outdoor Locations.
Blauvelt State Park is 590 acres of forested green space in Rockland County. Hiking trails provide the only access and afford spectacular views of the Hudson Valley. This park is undeveloped. There are no toilets and there is limited parking.
Parks attractions include: Hiking Trails / Walking
Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties, is the second-largest park in the parks system, with 31 lakes and reservoirs, 200 miles of hiking trails, three beaches, two public camping areas, a network of group camps, miles of streams and scenic roads, and scores of wildlife species, vistas and vantage points. Harriman State Park inludes Lakes Welch, Sebago, Tiorati and Silvermine, the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, Sebago Cabins and Beaver Pond Campgrounds.
Parks attractions include: Beach, Biking, Boat Launch Sites, Boat Rentals, Bridle Path / Horseback Riding, Cabins, Campsites, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Food, Gift Shop, Group Camping, Hiking, Ice Fishing, Museum & Vistor Center, Picnic Tables, Playing Fields, Showers, Tent / Trailer Sites
High Tor State Park, a day-use facility for picnicking, swimming and hiking, affords spectacular views of the Hudson River. The Long Path passes through the park just before the trail heads inland to the Catskills.
Parks attractions include: Food, Hiking Trails, Picnic Tables, Pool, Showers
Lake Sebago Beach in Harriman State Park is surrounded by lawns, play fields and picnic areas. In addition to swimming from the sandy beach, anglers can fish for bass, perch and sunfish.
Parks attractions include: Beach, Boat Launch Sites, Fishing, Food, Hiking / Walking, Picnic Tables, Playground, Playing Fields, Showers
Lake Tiorati was formed by clearing swampland in Harriman State Park and constructing a concrete dam to make two ponds into one large lake. Surrounded by meadows and rolling, wooded hills, the park offers excellent swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking. In winter, if conditions allow, the lake is used for ice fishing. The pioneer campsites near the lake may be used by bonafide groups.
Parks attractions include: Beach, Biking, Boat Launch Sites, Fishing, Food, Group Camping, Hiking / Walking, Ice Fishing, Picnic Tables, Scout Camping, Showers
Lake Welch Beach State Park's man-made Lake Welch, with its half-mile-long sandy beach in the wooded hills of the Ramapo Mountains, is the largest beach in Harriman State Park. Originally a small body of water with farmland around the edges, Lake Welch became the large lake that it is today when a dam was completed in 1942. The park offers cool breezes, swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and camping in adjacent Beaver Pond Campground. Winter activities include ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Nyack Beach State Park boasts 61 acres of riverfront along the Hudson in Rockland County. The most popular activities are picnicking, hiking, bicycling and fishing. Trails are open for cross-country skiing in winter.
Rockland Lake State Park's lake is located on a ridge of Hook Mountain above the west bank of the Hudson River. The park offers two Olympic-sized swimming pools and two kiddie pools, picnic tables and grills, a car-top boat launch and boat rentals, hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley, six tennis courts and two golf courses. Anglers can fish Rockland Lake for bass, perch and norlunge; walkers and joggers can use the fitness trail around the lake. Winter visitors can enjoy designated cross-country ski trails and sledding slopes.
Silver Mine is part of the beautiful and scenic Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties. The Silver Mine area of Harriman State Park offers picnic grounds, fishing and hiking.
Tallman Mountain State Park comprises wooded country on the easterly slope of the Palisades uplands overlooking the Hudson and Piermont Marsh, which lies between the river and the slope. The marsh is part of the Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve. The park operates as a day-use area, offering a swimming pool, running track, tennis courts, playfield, cross country skiing, a walking trail, hiking and picnic areas.
Parks attractions include: Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Hiking Paths / Walking, Picnic Tables, Playground, Playing Fields, Pool, Showers, Tennis
Marshlands Conservancy is a 173-acre wildlife sanctuary composed of a diversity of habitats. Forest, meadow, salt marsh and shore can be explored and appreciated here. There are three miles of trails and one-half mile of shoreline along the Long Island Sound. Located along the Atlantic migratory flyway, Marshlands is an excellent birdwatching location; more than 230 species have been sited. The Marshlands salt marsh is one of few in New York accessible to the public for study and enjoyment.
Rye Playland is Metro New York's great family amusement park and entertainment center. Featuring more than 50 rides for children and adults, Playland also offers free entertainment and has a beach, pool, boardwalk and pier on scenic Long Island Sound, lake boating, picnic area, mini golf and indoor ice-skating.
Point of Interest: Rye Playland has the distinction of being America's first totally planned amusement park and prototype for today's successful theme parks. Dedicated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987, Playland has provided family fun since 1928. Often referred to as "Rye Playland", it is America's only government owned and operated amusement park.
Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial is a magnificent 234 acre property consisting of woodlands, open grass meadow and formal gardens with flower and shrub specimens from all over the world. Lasdon is also the site of the Chinese Friendship Pavilion and four inspirational memorials and a museum honoring Westchester veterans.
Parks attractions include: Botanical Specimans, Chinese Friendship Pavilion, Formal Gardens, Open Grass Meadow
Friends of the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, Inc., located in Sleepy Hollow, New York, was established in 1997 to encourage public participation in protecting the Preserve's wildlife and habitat, sustaining its historical and archeological features, and maintaining its unique system of carriage roads.
The Bronx River Parkway Reservation, one of Westchester’s oldest parks, is an 807-acre paved linear park that was created as an adjunct to the Bronx River Parkway that opened in 1925. The Reservation touts a number of “firsts:” it was the first linear park in Westchester, as well as one of the first in the country, and, the Bronx River Parkway was the first parkway in the nation. The Reservation also has the distinction of being the first official Westchester County Park, whose establishment led to the creation of today’s County Park System of more than 50 parks spanning nearly 18,000 acres. The picturesque Reservation, which runs through the heart of southern Westchester County, features ponds, wooden footbridges, and hundreds of varieties of native trees and shrubs. It is a favorite place for bicycling, walking, running and nature study.
Kensico Dam Plaza is a 98 acre property located at the base of the Kensico Dam. Kensico gets its name from the Siwanoy sachem, "Cokenseko". It is 300 feet high and 1830 feet long. It forms the reservoir that contains 29,000 million gallons of water per day. The dam was built under the old dam that formed Lake Kensico, using stone taken from the adjacent Cranberry Lake Park. The park provides a unique setting for a wide variety of activities including ethnic celebrations, concerts, antiques shows, and arts and craft shows.
Parks attractions include: Biking, Fishing, Hiking / Walking, Ice Skating, In-line Skating, Nature Study, Outdoor Film Festival, Picnicking, Playground, Refreshments
Saxon Woods was maintained as a woodland until 1931 when an 18-hole golf course was opened to the public. This is a 700 acre park offering a variety of recreational facilities including a pool, picnic areas and a 18 hole miniature golf course. It is also the site of the county’s only playground that is accessible to the disabled.
Parks attractions include: Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Hiking Trails / Walking, Equestrian Trails, Miniature Golf, Nature Study, Picnicking, Playground (Accessible to the disabled), Refreshments, Swimming
The Sprain Ridge Mountain Bike Trail in Yonkers offers cyclists a day of fresh air and exercise in a wooded and natural environment. Sprain Ridge Park is a large land preserve with a variety of landscapes, ranging from heavily wooded areas to large and impressive rock outcroppings. The park was previously owned by the Boyce Thompson Institute, a botanical research center, and a result, contains many unusual and exotic woodland plants.
The five miles of mountain bike trails at Sprain Ridge offer challenges to cyclists at every level of ability. The trails wind their way through 278 acres of varied terrain that offers challenges for beginner, intermediate and advanced cyclists. The beginner trail provides cyclists with challenging curves but a relatively level topography. The intermediate and advanced trails provide experienced cyclists with more of a challenge with trails of increasing grades and challenging topography.
There are picnic areas available near all three parking lots and a snack bar is open in season near the swimming pool area.
Tibbetts Brook Park is a 161 acre park with a large 412’ x 125’ pool. It was one of the first parks developed by Westchester County. The Park offers many recreational activities throughout the year and hosts ethnic celebrations, fairs and festivals during the summer months.
The Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park offers a scenic haven. The park's spacious picnic areas, which can accommodate individual families as well as large groups, may be reserved in advance. The park's mammoth pool can hold 4,000 bathers at one time.
The park's oasis of blue water, Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond, provide excellent freshwater fishing and boating. Popular catches include bass, perch, and sun fish. A New York State Freshwater Fishing License is required. Licenses can be purchased at town halls or a variety of sporting good stores. Both rowboats and pedal boats are available for rental; however, a regional boating permit allows visitors to launch their own rowboats, canoes or kayaks. For an additional fee, rowboat owners may also store their boats. In wintertime, the water's tree lined border provides a winter wonderland backdrop for ice skaters and ice fisherman.
The park's picnic areas have volleyball nets and many have softball fields or basketball courts. There is also a soccer field. Sports enthusiasts may wish to try their hand at Disc golf, a short distance from the picnic areas. You can play either 9 or 18 holes. The rules and scorecards are located at the course and loaner Frisbees are available from the park office. The park’s hills and trails are perfect for winter sports.
Parks attractions include: Biking, Boat Launch Sites, Boat Rentals, Cross-Country Skiing, Disk Golf Course, Fishing, Food, Hiking Trails / Walking, Ice Skating, Picnic Tables, Playground, Playing Fields, Pool, Recreation Programs, Snowmobiling
State & Local Parks
Activity is for Everyone
Healthy living and physical fitness are closely connected. Being physically fit not only helps people live healthy lives, it also helps people live longer. People who make physical activity and exercise a part of their daily lives when they are young are more likely to keep it in their lives as they grow older and benefit from it throughout their lifespan. Physical activity is defined as any movement that spends energy. Exercise is a subset of physical activity, but it is an activity that is structured and planned.
Exercise offers other benefits, including strengthened muscles, increased flexibility, and stronger bones. Regular activity also promises mental-health benefits, like relieving stress and anxiety. It can help you sleep better and renew your energy.
Virtually everyone benefits from physical activity and exercise. However, every few years, surveys confirm the well-known fact that most people aren't active enough. While many children engage in physical activity, the amount of physical activity and exercise they get as they grow into adolescents usually declines. In fact, many researchers believe that physical inactivity is a national health problem that can increase the risk of illness and disease.
It is widely accepted by the health community that doing some kind of physical activity or exercise on a regular basis helps to increase strength and flexibility, improve endurance, control weight, increase bone mass, and improve self-esteem. Exercise also reduces stress, anxiety, depression, and the risk of developing high blood pressure.
The best way to keep physical activity and exercise a permanent part of one's life is to make it fun and enjoyable. If people are given different options of what they can do and have easy access to those options, they are more likely to participate in physical activity and exercise. This allows people to have a positive attitude toward physical fitness. It's also helpful if people are knowledgeable about the rewards of physical activity and exercise.
Physical activity and exercise benefits both the body and the mind in numerous ways. Activity options include: team and individual sports, walking, gardening, dancing, and even doing everyday household chores.
Benefits of Exercise and Physical Fitness
It is generally accepted that exercise improves health and well-being. Physical activity doesn't need to be strenuous for a person to enjoy benefits to health. However, by sensibly increasing physical activity - you increase your health benefits. Exercise also believed to increase endorphins, a protein in the brain that act as the body's natural pain reliever.
Exercise and Physical Fitness Concepts
Cardiovascular Fitness
Cardiovascular fitness is improved by aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular health as it typically uses the body's largest groups of muscles (the legs) continually which makes a person need more oxygen. Exercise increases the amount of oxygen in the blood and improves the efficiency of the cardiovascular system. Examples of aerobic exercise include running, walking fast, biking, and dancing. Cardiovascular or aerobic activity also strengthens the heart and lungs.
Regular activity and exercise make for a healthier heart. A healthy heart enhances the efficiency of circulating blood throughout the body. The heart pumps blood, which carries oxygen to muscles and carries away waste. How well the heart performs is a good indication of a person's cardiovascular system.
Endurance
Endurance refers to a person's ability to continue doing a stressful activity for an extended period of time. This is sometimes called stamina. What this means is that a person with good endurance or stamina can bike, jog, play, or run for a long time without getting tired. Having a healthy endurance level means that a person has a healthy level of cardiovascular fitness. Cardiovascular fitness refers to how efficiently the heart and lungs can pump
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