The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Camp Hero State Park
4.7
(9)
78
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Camp Hero State Park traverse a diverse landscape featuring heavily wooded areas, tranquil maritime forests, and vital freshwater wetlands. The park is characterized by dramatic coastal bluffs offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, alongside a long stretch of beachfront. Hikers can explore remnants of its past as a military installation, including an abandoned radar tower and other structures. This varied terrain provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical interest for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Camp Hero State Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop, an easy 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete, winding through the park's natural and historical features.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop, an easy 4.3 miles (7.0 km) path. This trail guides hikers through wooded areas and past picturesque ponds, offering a serene natural experience.
- Local hikers also love the Money Pond, Oyster Pond, and Seal Haul Out Trail Loop, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail leading through maritime forests and past coastal ponds, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking in Camp Hero State Park is defined by coastal bluffs, maritime forests, and freshwater wetlands. The extensive network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to moderate trails.
- The routes in Camp Hero State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from 8 reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore Camp Hero State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.6
(5)
26
hikers
9.96km
02:36
70m
70m
If you're looking for a hike that blends natural beauty with a touch of history, the Paumanok Path: Montauk Point Loop delivers. This moderate 6.2-mile (10.0 km) route, with its 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete. You'll wander through peaceful maritime forests and past coastal plain ponds before reaching the dramatic Atlantic bluffs, culminating in stunning views of the Montauk Point Lighthouse.
Accessing the trail is straightforward, with parking available within Montauk Point State Park and Camp Hero. It's a popular spot, so consider an early start, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and find a good parking space. The trail is generally well-maintained, but some sections can be rocky, so sturdy footwear is a good idea. There are no specific permits required for this hike.
This loop is a segment of the much larger Paumanok Path, offering a taste of Long Island's unique eastern tip. As you hike, you'll discover remnants of WWII-era bunkers and a Cold War-era radar tower within Camp Hero, adding an intriguing historical layer to the natural scenery. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like harbor seals and various bird species, especially near the coast.
3
hikers
5.99km
01:34
50m
50m
The Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue on Long Island's eastern tip. You'll wander through maritime forests and freshwater wetlands before reaching dramatic bluffs that provide panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and glimpses of the Montauk Point Lighthouse. This easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike with only 161 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain takes about 1 hour and 34 minutes, making it a perfect, accessible adventure for anyone.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, as the paths are generally well-maintained and clearly marked with white blazes. You won't need any special permits or face seasonal closures for this section of the Paumanok Path. It's an ideal route for a leisurely morning or afternoon outing, offering a relaxed pace and easy navigation for all skill levels.
What truly sets this route apart is its passage through Camp Hero State Park, a former World War II military installation. As you hike, you'll discover fascinating remnants like an abandoned radar tower and bunkers, adding a unique historical dimension to the diverse ecosystems you'll experience. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as white-tailed deer and various bird species, making it a rich experience beyond just the scenery.
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8
hikers
6.96km
01:48
40m
40m
The Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop offers a delightful easy hike, perfect for those seeking scenic beauty without strenuous effort. This 4.3-mile (7.0 km) route, with a gentle 122 feet (37 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a varied landscape of wooded areas, wetlands, and rugged shorelines. You'll encounter picturesque hidden ponds, including the expansive Oyster Pond, and enjoy sweeping ocean vistas, making it a rewarding experience that typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at Montauk Point State Park. This trail is particularly popular for its family-friendly nature and the chance to observe wildlife. For the best seal viewing opportunities along the Seal Haul Out Trail, plan your trip between November and April, and consider bringing binoculars for a closer look at the various species that frequent the area.
What truly sets this trail apart is the unique combination of freshwater ponds and ocean access, highlighted by Oyster Pond, the second-largest pond in Montauk State Park, separated from the sea by a narrow strip of land. The diverse terrain, ranging from accessible paths to natural sections, provides a dynamic hiking overview, offering a glimpse into the rich natural environment of Montauk and making it a top-rated hiking trail in the region.
8
hikers
6.84km
01:46
30m
30m
The Money Pond, Oyster Pond, and Seal Haul Out Trail Loop offers a delightful blend of scenery, transitioning from peaceful wooded areas and wetlands to the expansive Oyster Pond and rugged ocean vistas. You'll traverse mostly accessible paths, including some unpaved natural sections, making for a varied and engaging experience. It's a great choice if you enjoy diverse ecosystems and wildlife spotting.
This moderate 4.3-mile (6.8 km) loop, with a gentle 106 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. The trail is located within Montauk Point State Park. For the best chance to see seals, plan your visit between November and April; binoculars are a good idea for viewing them from a distance.
What truly sets this trail apart is the chance to observe seals lounging on rocks along the Seal Haul Out Trail, a unique natural feature in Montauk. Beyond the seals, the route showcases a rich ecological tapestry, moving through coastal shrubland and offering a world-away feel from city life, making it a notable Montauk Point State Park hiking option.
1
hikers
3.20km
00:49
20m
20m
The Amsterdam Beach Preserve loop offers a delightful journey through diverse coastal landscapes, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll wander through coastal forests with impressive holly trees and wetlands, cross wooden bridges, and traverse open meadows before reaching a beautiful, rocky shoreline. The changing scenery, from woodlands to ocean views, makes this an engaging and visually rewarding hike.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as there are no permits or entrance fees required for this state park. The trailhead is easily found off Montauk Highway, across from Deep Hollow Ranch, with a small parking area available. This easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) route, with only 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 49 minutes, making it ideal for a quick escape. Spring and fall are excellent times to visit for comfortable temperatures, but summer also provides refreshing sea breezes.
This family-friendly and dog-friendly trail (dogs must be leashed) is part of a 199-acre preserve dedicated to natural habitat preservation. It's a tranquil spot, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly birds and rabbits, within its varied ecosystems. The preserve's connection to the Long Island Greenway also hints at broader exploration possibilities for those looking to extend their adventure beyond this charming loop.
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Tips from the Community
There are, by the way, some beautiful places here in the north of Long Island. Large colonial-style villas, some with park-like gardens, are a sight to behold. The sophistication is reminiscent of places like Kampen on Sylt.
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Montauk, by the way, has a walk-through lighthouse, which houses a small but fine museum that, among other things, explains the history of the Native Americans who once lived on Long Island.
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Anyone visiting Long Island should definitely visit Montauk, as this end of the island is not only scenically very attractive - Pocahontas' life took place here, which is historically interesting. The "Hamptons" are also not far away. These places are beautiful: the picture-perfect east coast.
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The Old Montauk Highway leads to a trail through the woods with a gate that says closed to traffic. We took it and it’s fine. There’s a nice parking area with a cliff view at the end just before you get to the lighthouse, check it out.
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Camp Hero State Park covers 415 acres of wooded areas and a beachfront with a historic military installation. Hikers, runners, bikers, and horseback riders can explore the trail systems going through forests, freshwater wetlands, ocean vistas, and bluffs. Swimming is not allowed here.
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At 199 acres, Amsterdam Beach Preserve is a beautiful state park & beach in Montauk. The beach itself is quite rocky, so swimming isn't ideal, but the views offer plenty of enjoyment and natural beauty.
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At 136 acres and the second-largest pond in Montauk State Park, Oyster Pond is a unique land formation separated from the ocean by just a small strip of land.
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At the easternmost point of Long Island & New York's first lighthouse, Montauk Point Lighthouse built in 1796 was one of the first sights that immigrants saw when arriving in the USA by ship.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Camp Hero State Park?
Camp Hero State Park offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 15 routes to explore. Many of these are rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and skill levels.
What kind of terrain and scenery can we expect on these trails?
You'll find a diverse landscape, from heavily wooded areas and tranquil maritime forests to vital freshwater wetlands. A major highlight is the dramatic coastal bluffs offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Trails also lead past picturesque ponds and along stretches of beachfront.
Are there historical sites or interesting landmarks to see along the trails?
Yes, Camp Hero State Park is rich in history. You can explore remnants of its past as a WWII coastal defense station and Cold War-era radar base. Look out for the abandoned AN/FPS-35 radar tower, bunkers, and other military structures. Many routes also offer views of the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, and you can visit the Montauk Air Force Station.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many of the trails are designed as loops, perfect for a family outing. For example, the Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop is an easy 6 km option, or you could try the Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop, which is about 7 km.
What are some easy trail options for families with younger children?
For an easier walk, consider the Amsterdam Beach Preserve loop, which is just over 3 km and takes about 50 minutes. Another great choice is the Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop, an easy 6 km route.
Can we expect to see any wildlife during our hike?
Yes, the undisturbed environment of Camp Hero State Park fosters abundant wildlife. It's a great spot for birdwatching, and you might encounter various other animals in the maritime forests and wetlands.
Is there parking available at Camp Hero State Park?
Yes, Camp Hero State Park provides parking facilities for visitors. Specific parking areas are usually indicated on park maps or signage near trailheads.
What is the best time of year to visit Camp Hero State Park with family?
The park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant natural beauty. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter hiking can be beautiful, especially after a fresh snowfall, but be prepared for colder conditions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Camp Hero State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the unique historical elements, and the peaceful atmosphere of the diverse natural landscapes.
Are there trails that feature ponds or other water bodies?
Yes, several trails will lead you past picturesque ponds. The Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop is a prime example, guiding hikers through wooded areas and past these serene water features.
Are there any longer, moderately challenging family-friendly routes?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Paumanok Path: Montauk Point Loop is a moderate 10 km hike that offers expansive coastal views and takes around 2.5 hours to complete. Another moderate option is the Money Pond, Oyster Pond, and Seal Haul Out Trail Loop, which is about 6.8 km.
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