Spring Nature Programs
Spring Nature Program Descriptions
Connetquot River State Park Preserve maintains 3,473 acres of land and water for the protection and propagation of game birds, fish and animals. Deer and waterfowl are numerous, rare nesting birds, including the osprey, are present and there are numerous rare plants, and other interesting flora, such as trailing arbutus and pink lady's slipper in their natural habitats. The preserve also has 50 miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross-country ski and nature trails, as well as fishing (by permit only) on the Connetquot River.
For Schools: Environmental Education Programs
Youth Programs available
The Long Island Environmental Interpretive Center is home to the Regional Environmental Education Team of environmental educators. Schools, youth organizations and special interest groups can make arrangements for interpretive programs and hikes at any of the State Parks on Long Island by calling this office. In addition to group hikes there are Fun for Kids Activities, Family Adventure Programs and Adult Ed-ventures for the general public run at several State Parks.
*To receive information on programs via email, sign up for Long Island State Park & Nature's electronic mailing list here.
No Pets Allowed
Fly Fishing Season: Open Year Round (Session Times: 8 am - 12 pm & 12 pm - 4 pm.)Additional hours in June, July & August (Session Times: 8 am - 12 pm, 12 pm - 4 pm & 4pm - 8pm. )
Trout Fishing Permits required in addition to valid NYS freshwater fishing license.*Keep 2 fish in the size rang 10"-13"
South Side Sportsmen's Club Historic House Tours:
Step back in time as you tour the Main House of the South Side Sportsmen's Club. A docent will discuss the history of the tavern, the land, buildings, and members of the high society Sportsmen's Club's, and how it came to be Connetquot River State Park Preserve.
First Sunday of Each Month
Each tour is about 45 minutes long. 1:00 - 2:00 pm. No reservations are required for this program. For more information please call 631-581-1072.
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. For fees not listed or to verify information, please contact the park directly.
The easy-to-use Empire Pass card is $80- and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. Purchase online or contact your favorite park for more information. Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass.
New! Download this park's digital map to your iOS Apple and Android device.
Have you ever wanted to explore the park after dark? Now is your chance! Join us on a night-themed walk through the preserve and search for our nocturnal residents.
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. Children ages 3 -5.
Walk through the many habitats located right here at Long Island's largest State Park Preserve! Wander through wetlands, pine barrens and oak forests while searching for wildlife and observing native plants. We will hike approximately 6 miles to the pristine, beautiful, less traveled northern section of the preserve. Bring water and lunch.
Register: https://ptny.wufoo.com/forms/zumi7km0s89kjp/
Project 1: Brick Work- You will be laying down a new brick walkway. Appropriate for 13 and up. Please bring garden gloves.
Project 2: Trail Work- you will be pruning, moving sticks, and thinning and transplanting. All ages welcome. Please bring: Garden gloves, hand shovels, and hand saws.
Project 3: Paint Scraping- you will be scraping the window and door frames of the main house. Appropriate for 13 and up. Please bring work gloves.
Other projects: Carpentry Work-Experienced Carpenters with their own tools
For questions about this event:
Call: 631-581-1005
Email: Jaclyn.Zanella@parks.ny.gov
Step back in time as you tour the Main House of the South Side Sportsmen's Club. A docent will discuss the history of the tavern and the high society Sportsmen's Club which shaped Connetquot River State Park Preserve into what it is today.