The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Rocky Point Pine Barrens State Forest

The Paumanok Path and Red Trail Loop offers a captivating moderate hike through Long Island's unique pine barrens, where you'll discover rolling hills and geological features like glacial kettles left by the last Ice Age. This 9.9-mile (15.9 km) route, with its 134 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through dense patches of scrub oak and pine forests, providing a rich tapestry of flora and a sense of peaceful immersion in nature. Expect about 4 hours and 1 minutes to complete this journey, making it a perfect half-day adventure for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and a good workout.

Before you head out, remember that some parts of the Paumanok Path can be quite remote, so plan to carry enough water and snacks. Parking is available at various trailheads, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Be sure to check yourself for deer ticks after your hike, as they are common in this natural environment. This trail is best enjoyed during the cooler, drier months to avoid excessive heat and humidity.

This specific Red Trail Loop within the Rocky Point Pine Barrens State Forest is a segment of the much larger, 125-mile Paumanok Path, which is celebrated for its ecological diversity and geological interest. The path showcases globally rare natural communities and crucial groundwater recharge areas, highlighting Long Island's significant natural heritage. It also holds historical significance, inspired by the extensive walks of Stephen Talkhouse, a 19th-century Montaukett Native American, connecting you to the island's deep past.

You can enjoy an easy hike through Southaven County Park, covering 2.3 miles (3.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 29 feet (9 metres). This route takes approximately 57 minutes to complete, offering a quick escape into nature. As you explore, you'll find yourself immersed in a scenic pine-oak forest, with majestic pines standing tall, especially deeper within the woods. The trails are largely flat, consisting of wide sandy paths and forest roads, characteristic of the Long Island Pine Barrens.

Planning your visit to Southaven County Park is straightforward, as it's a vast public recreation area with ample parking available. While dogs are welcome to join you on the trails, remember to keep them on a leash for everyone's safety and enjoyment. Be aware that the park is situated near a shooting range and a small airport, so you might occasionally hear gunshots or planes during your hike. This is a great option for a short, accessible outdoor adventure.

Beyond the forest paths, the Carmans River flows through the park, providing picturesque views and opportunities for fishing. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and various bird species as you wander. Don't miss the tranquil Hards Lake, a 30-acre body of water located in the park's southeastern part, which adds another beautiful landmark to your experience. The park's natural setting makes it a notable spot for a peaceful walk.

The Preston Ponds Loop in Suffolk County, New York, offers a peaceful and immersive experience through unique wetlands and coastal plain pondshore habitats. This easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hike, with a gentle 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, guides you past diverse flora and fauna, including amphibians, damselflies, and various birds. Keep an eye out for the charming wooden bridge in the western part of Otis Pike Preserve, a highlight along the route.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible year-round. You'll find parking typically available near the trailhead, and there are no specific permits or fees required for access. With an estimated duration of just 1 hour and 6 minutes, it's an ideal choice for a quick, refreshing nature walk.

This trail is particularly notable for its role in preserving a unique natural community within the Otis Pike Preserve and Robert Cushman Murphy County Park. Historically, the area was used for commercial cranberry bogs, and today it provides a vital habitat for local wildlife. It's a fantastic opportunity to explore a significant ecological area and observe nature without venturing too far from civilization.

The Robert Cushman Murphy County Park loop offers a fascinating journey through Long Island's unique ecosystems, including rare coastal plain pond-shore habitats and sections of the Pine Barrens. You'll wander through forests dominated by pitch pines, white oaks, and red maples, encountering glacial kettleholes and old cranberry bogs. The trail itself is a mix of unpaved paths, asphalt, and paved sections, providing a varied surface underfoot as you explore this diverse natural environment.

Planning your visit to this moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) hike, which typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes with just 37 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. However, be prepared for potentially confusing navigation, as some visitors have reported a lack of clear signage or a defined main entrance. It's always a good idea to have a map or GPS handy to ensure you stay on track, especially given the varied terrain.

This park holds significant ecological importance as Suffolk County's first natural park and a biological research center. It's particularly renowned for its excellent birding opportunities, with sightings of species like bluebirds, Barn and Tree Swallows, and Red-tailed Hawks. The trail also connects with the larger Long Island Pine Barrens Trail, offering a glimpse into the region's extensive natural heritage and making it a notable destination for wildlife spotting.

If you're looking for a hike that offers more than just natural scenery, the Grumman Memorial Park loop from Calverton Pine Barrens State Forest is a great choice. You'll wander through a unique fire-dependent ecosystem, characterized by pitch pines and scrub oak, on a mix of paved and soft, pine-needle-covered paths. The route's standout feature is the Grumman Memorial Park, where you can view impressive aircraft like the F-14 Tomcat and learn about Long Island's aviation heritage.

This moderate 9.3-mile (14.9 km) loop, with a gentle 130 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 47 minutes to complete. It's a family-friendly option that combines outdoor activity with historical exploration. Parking is available at the trailhead, and while the trail is accessible year-round, spring and fall offer ideal conditions for a comfortable hike.

What makes this one of the more interesting Calverton Pine Barrens State Forest hiking routes is its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Beyond the unique pine barrens, the trail offers a chance to explore the Grumman Memorial Park points of interest, including informative plaques detailing the aircraft and the company's contributions, such as the Apollo Lunar Module. It's a distinctive experience for those interested in both nature and military manufacturing history.