Rules & Regulations

Heckscher State Park follows New York's state park regulations (Title 9 of the state's codes, Part 375) and the Long Island Region's own permits. In short: the park is open sunrise to sunset; pay the vehicle fee in season; dogs are allowed only on a six-foot leash in the west woods; swim only where and when the park allows; carry out your trash; and get a permit before metal detecting, flying model aircraft or holding a big event. In an emergency, call 911.

Hours and Fees

• The park is open sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. Campers and cottage guests stay overnight under their reservations.
• State rules forbid entering or using any facility that charges a fee without paying it, and entering any area posted as closed.
• 2026 vehicle fee: $8 a car, $10 from June 27 to September 7; buses $35. See hours and fees.

Dogs

State regulation 9 NYCRR §415.2 allows dogs on a leash no longer than six feet, but not in buildings, camping, bathing or picnic areas, or on improved walks and boardwalks. At Heckscher that means the dog walking trail in the west woods, west of the toll booths, and nowhere else. Clean up after your dog. Full details: dogs.

Swimming

• Swim only at the guarded beaches during posted hours (beaches).
• Rules prohibit swimming where there is an obvious danger of serious injury, or against a sign or a park employee's order.
• Tubes, floats, swim fins and other swimming aids are banned unless the park specifically allows them; only Coast Guard-approved life jackets are permitted where authorized.
• Wear a proper bathing suit, and change only in the changing facilities.

Boating and Paddling

• Paddle craft launch from Field 7, boats from Field 5. In 2026 paddling was allowed March 1 to November 30 (kayaking).
• Keep out of marked swimming areas, and do not operate any watercraft so as to endanger people or property.

Fishing

Anglers 16 and older need New York's free Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. Fish and crab at the Field 5 boat basin (fishing).

Protecting the Park

• No littering: use the receptacles provided or carry it out.
• Do not dig, cut or damage any tree, plant, building or sign.
• Do not pollute the water or storm drains.
• Use only the trails, roads and paths provided for the public.
• Do not throw away lit matches, cigarettes or charcoal except in a receptacle.

Conduct

State rules prohibit disorderly conduct, including unreasonable noise, abusive language, throwing objects, fighting, blocking traffic and climbing on walls, fences or structures. Children under 10 must be supervised by an adult at all times. Gambling and hitchhiking are prohibited.

Weapons and Vehicles

• Firearms, bows and air guns are banned except for law enforcement or by permit.
• All-terrain vehicles are banned.
• Drive and ride safely; operating any wheeled vehicle so as to endanger others is prohibited.

Permits You May Need

• Metal detecting: by permit only, $40.
• Model airplanes and remote-controlled aircraft: by permit only, $40; NYS Parks' Long Island region publishes a Remote Controlled Aircraft Application. Planning to fly a drone? Ask the park office which permit applies before you fly.
• Pavilions: ReserveAmerica only, 14 days ahead (picnic areas).
• Group picnics, tents, events, filming and photography: the Long Island region publishes a Group Picnic Application, Tent Permit Application, Park Use Application and Filming/Photography Permit Application.

Who to Call

• Emergency: 911
• Park office: (631) 581-2100
• Long Island Regional Office: (631) 669-1000