For information regarding the 2021 Dashboard Permit sales please click here.
Be advised, to encourage social distancing and help stop the spread of COVID-19, many parks have reduced parking by 50% and local roads may have closures in effect. Many popular parks will fill to capacity by noon and close early to incoming visitors and traffic. Closures will be posted here and on our homepage. For real-time traffic updates visit: https://www.511ny.org/#:Alerts
Among the most popular picnic parks on Long Island, Sunken Meadow hosts millions of people each year partaking of family and group outings. Pick-up sports are enjoyed on the ball fields and several informal open lawn areas. Swimming here is truly family-oriented in the generally calm waters of the Sound. Many people enjoy the health benefits of measured walks along the ¾ mile boardwalk. Cross country running events are held over the hilly running course. The park is the northern terminus of the Long Island Greenbelt trail for hiking.
From Field 3 at the eastern portion of park, launching is available for windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and canoeing.
27 holes of golf at Governor Alfred E. Smith Sunken Meadow State Park
Golf course architect Alfred H. Tull (1897-1982) designed what are today the Red and Green Courses in 1964. Tull, who designed the Yellow Course and redesigned the Blue Course at Bethpage State Park in the 1950s, was noted for laying out golf courses without consulting topographical maps. Only after his routing of the course was complete did he overlay his plan on topographical maps. The result seems to be golf courses which make maximum use of the existing terrain. In the case of Sunken Meadow State Park that terrain is somewhat hilly and variable, surrounded by mature woodlands; resulting in an attractive and relaxing outdoor experience for golfers. The view of the Long Island Sound from the golf driving range is stunning in its beauty.
The use of motorized golf carts was introduced in 1997. Today, in the hierarchy of state park golf courses in the region, the Sunken Meadow courses are intended to serve golfers of a moderate skill level. While maintenance and operation of the golf facilities is kept at an excellent level, they are not maintained at championship level. The courses provide an enjoyable outing with moderate challenges, but not punishing for those who make errant shots.
Find more about park permit information.
Pavilion Information
Sunken Meadow has one pavilion. The day use price is $200 to $250 and can accommodate up to 200 people. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com. Find out more on picnic pavilion reservations and view photos of Sunken Meadow's pavilion.
For information on educational opportunities and programs in Long Island State Parks, please visit Long Island Environmental Interpretive Center.
Current Water Quality - Beach Results
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in undeveloped areas only. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Sunken Meadow is open every day year-round, sunrise to sunset.
Beginning Friday, May 22, 2020, swimming hours will be 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily.
Field 2:
Beginning
Friday, May 22, 2020, swimming hours will be 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily.
Cross Country Programs: Permit required for schools and organized groups. Insurance required for schools and groups. Please contact the Regional Permit Office at 631-669-1000.
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.
4/4 - 5/24: 8am-4pm, weekends and holidays - $8/car
5/25 - 9/13: 7am - 6pm weekends and holidays; 8am-4pm weekdays - $10/car.
9/13 - 11/8 8am-4pm, weekends & holidays - $8/car
Non-Profit Buses: $35 (By permit only)
Commercial Buses: $75
Unscheduled buses: $75
*VUF not charged for golf patrons. Driver pays for $10 of greens fee at tolls.
Leave your bathing suit behind and grab your winter coat! Breathe in the invigorating winter air as we Stroll the beach at Sunken Meadow. We will search for visiting wildlife along the way. Dress for the weather.
Due to the Covid-19 safety parameters, space is limited. Reservations are required. Masks are mandatory. All programs are outside. $4 cash, per person.
Did you know that the Greenbelt Trail makes it's northernmost stop in Sunken Meadow State Park? Along it's way, the Greenbelt follows the edge of the bluffs, for some amazing views of the Long Island Sound. Join us as we venture up through the woods for a walk along some of these high ground trails. This is a moderate level hike with some hills. Bring water and good walking shoes/boots.
Due to the Covid-19 safety parameters, space is limited. Reservations are required. Masks are mandatory. All programs are outside. $4 cash, per person.
Spring is in full swing here at Sunken Meadow State Park! Join us for a stroll along the marsh and through the woods as we search for signs that local plants and animals are active once again!
Due to the Covid-19 safety parameters, space is limited. Reservations are required. Masks are mandatory. All programs are outside. $4 cash, per person.
We will loan you a backpack filled with fun, interesting experiments to do as we walk through the park. Activities will be completed as a group. (Limited to 12 backpacks)
Due to the Covid-19 safety parameters, space is limited. Reservations are required. Masks are mandatory. All programs are outside. $4 cash, per person.