Picnic Areas & Pavilions
Picnicking is Heckscher State Park's main event: NYS Parks says the park's shady picnic groves are what visitors use it for first, and picnicking is available all year. For big groups, the park has three reservable pavilions that each hold 400 to 500 people, priced from $250 to $375. Pavilions are booked only through ReserveAmerica or 800-456-2267, at least 14 days ahead. Dogs are not allowed in picnic areas.
Picnicking at a Glance
Where the Picnic Areas Are
The state's maps put the picnic groves on the west half of the park, inside and around the parkway loop:
- Field 1 and Field 4: a picnic area and pavilion between the two lots, beside the park office, with restrooms and a playground.
- Field 2: a pavilion and restrooms just south of the parkway.
- Field 3: a pavilion, playground and softball field on the north-west edge, near the disc golf course.
- Field 6: a picnic area just north of West Beach, close to the concession stand.
Grills are on NYS Parks' amenity list for Heckscher. The big open fields between the groves are used, in the state's words, "for soccer, cricket, lacrosse, and other field sports."
Reserving a Pavilion
- Three pavilions, each holding 400 to 500 people.
- Price: $250 to $375, depending on the pavilion.
- How: ReserveAmerica online, or 800-456-2267. NYS Parks takes no in-person pavilion bookings on Long Island.
- When: at least 14 days before your date.
- Questions: the Long Island regional permit office, longislandpermits@parks.ny.gov.
NYS Parks' Heckscher page also offers photos of each pavilion option in its documents list.
Large Groups Without a Pavilion
NYS Parks' Long Island region publishes a Group Picnic Application and a Tent Permit Application. If you are bringing a big group or a tent to an open grove, ask the park office at (631) 581-2100 which permit applies before the day.
Picnic Rules
- No dogs in picnic areas (state rule, 9 NYCRR §415.2).
- Carry out or bin all trash; state rules ban littering.
- Do not cut or damage trees or plants.
- Keep children under 10 supervised.
- The vehicle use fee applies in season ($8 or $10 a car in 2026). See hours and fees.
Pair a Picnic With
- A swim at West Beach, steps from the Field 6 picnic area.
- A ride on the bike path, which passes Fields 1, 2 and 6.
- Disc golf near Field 3 (NYS Parks lists disc golf among the amenities).
- Watching for deer in the fields in early morning or evening.
Picnic Areas & Pavilions FAQ
Can you have a picnic at Heckscher State Park?
Yes. NYS Parks says Heckscher's shady picnic groves are its main draw, and picnicking is available all year. Grills, restrooms and playgrounds are near the main picnic fields.
How do I reserve a pavilion at Heckscher State Park?
Book on ReserveAmerica or call 800-456-2267 at least 14 days ahead. NYS Parks takes no in-person pavilion reservations on Long Island.
How much is a pavilion at Heckscher?
$250 to $375, depending on the pavilion. Each holds 400 to 500 people.
Are there grills at Heckscher State Park?
Yes. NYS Parks lists grills among Heckscher's amenities.
Can I bring my dog to a picnic at Heckscher?
No. Dogs are not allowed in picnic areas; leashed dogs may use the dog walking trail on the west side.