Dogs at Heckscher State Park
Yes, but only in one part of the park. NYS Parks allows leashed dogs at Heckscher State Park on the undeveloped trails west of the toll booths, which the state's map marks as the dog walking trail. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, park behind Field 4 and walk to Field 5; the rest of the year, park in Field 5. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet and are not allowed on the beaches, in picnic areas, in the campground, in buildings, or on paved walks and boardwalks.
Dog Rules at a Glance
The Rule Behind It
New York's park regulations (9 NYCRR §415.2, quoted in NYS Parks' Long Island dog guide) start from "no animals" and then allow dogs "restrained by a leash not exceeding six feet in length" into park areas, except buildings, camping, bathing and picnic areas, and improved walks or boardwalks. At Heckscher, where most of the park is picnic groves, beaches, paved paths and the campground, that leaves the woods on the west side.
Where the Dog Walking Trail Is
NYS Parks' Heckscher dog map shades a block of woods on the west side of the park, between the residential streets of East Islip and the park loop, as "Leashed Dogs Permitted." The dog walking trail runs through it, from near Field 3 south along the west edge to the boat basin by Field 5. Foot paths branch through the same woods. Everything east of the loop road, including the bay beaches and the picnic fields, is off-limits to dogs.
Where to Park With a Dog
- Memorial Day to Labor Day: park behind Field 4 and walk over to Field 5 to reach the trail.
- Labor Day to Memorial Day: park in Field 5.
The vehicle use fee applies in season; see hours and fees.
Where Dogs Are Not Allowed
- West Beach and Overlook Beach, and any bathing area (beaches)
- Picnic areas and pavilions (picnic areas)
- The campground (camping)
- Park buildings
- Improved walks and boardwalks, including the boardwalk at Field 5; ask the park office before walking a dog on the paved bike path
Service animals are a different matter; NYS Parks' pet rules elsewhere in the system exempt them.
Rules While You Walk
NYS Parks' Long Island guide lists the basics:
- Leash at all times, no longer than six feet.
- Keep your dog under control.
- Pick up and dispose of waste.
- Do not let your dog chase birds, squirrels or other animals. Heckscher is known for its white-tailed deer; see deer and wildlife.
- Obey signs, fences and staff.
Ticks
The same guide warns about three ticks on Long Island: deer ticks (Lyme disease), lone star ticks and American dog ticks. They wait on grass and brush in wooded areas, so check your dog and yourself after every walk in the west woods.
Other Dog-Friendly State Parks Nearby
NYS Parks' Long Island list includes other parks with dog-walking areas, such as Belmont Lake and Brookhaven. Connetquot River State Park Preserve, the big preserve just north of Heckscher, does not allow pets at all (Connetquot).
Dogs at Heckscher State Park FAQ
Are dogs allowed at Heckscher State Park?
Yes, on a leash of six feet or less, but only on the undeveloped trails west of the toll booths (the dog walking trail). Dogs are not allowed on the beaches, in picnic areas, in the campground or on paved walks.
Where do I park to walk my dog at Heckscher?
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, park behind Field 4 and walk to Field 5. From Labor Day to Memorial Day, park in Field 5.
Can dogs go on the beach at Heckscher State Park?
No. State rules keep dogs out of bathing areas, so dogs are not allowed at West Beach or Overlook Beach.
Can I bring my dog camping at Heckscher?
No. NYS Parks rules do not allow dogs in camping areas.
Are dogs allowed at Connetquot River State Park near Heckscher?
No. Connetquot River State Park Preserve does not allow pets, bicycles or picnicking.