Heckscher State Park is located on in East Islip on Long Island, about an hour and 10 minutes from Queens. It has 20 miles of trails for hikers and bicyclists to enjoy. It also has shaded campsites in the woods, picnic areas, a boat launch and a playground. The park has a swimming pool and swimming is also available in Great South Bay, which feeds into the Atlantic Ocean. Dogs on leashes are permitted.
Wildwood State Park is located in Wading River on Long Island, about an hour and 15 minutes from Queens. Much of the park is along the Long Island Sound; it has 600 acres of undeveloped forest on a bluff that overlooks it. Campsites can accommodate trailers and there are playgrounds and picnic areas throughout the park. Swimming and fishing are available in Long Island Sound. Seasonal activities include a fall festival and a summer children's theater program.
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park, in Carmel, is located an hour and 25 minutes from Queens. Much of the park surrounds Canopus Lake, which has campsites near it. The park has 79 camp sites and many miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. This park is popular with mountain bikes, as it offers challenging biking trails. Campers can rent boats for fishing on Canopus Lake and swimming is also available on the lake. The park has another smaller lake, Stillwater Lake, and four ponds. Camp staff organizes hikes, craft activities and movie nights.
Hither Hills State Park is located in Montauk on Long Island, almost two hours from Queens. It's one of the most popular camping spots, so book early. Campsites are located right on the Atlantic Ocean and some picnic areas have fireplaces. The park has bridle trails, fishing spots and hiking trails. You can also hike along the Walking Dunes, the 100-foot dunes located along the shoreline on the northern bay. Golf is available at nearby Montauk Downs State Park, about 15 minutes away.
