County Executive’s Corner: Discover the Beauty of Rockland County Parks This Summer

Now that summer is here and school is wrapping up, it is time to take advantage of all the great outdoor recreation opportunities that Rockland County has to offer. Nestled amidst the Hudson Valley, our county boasts an array of parks that promise not only breathtaking scenery but also endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a fitness aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, we are very lucky to live in a county that is one-third parkland that offer something for everyone. Of that parkland, 31 are County parks with over 3200 acres on which to walk, hike, picnic, fish and/or launch a boat or kayak.

While the county has 40 miles of scenic Hudson River waterfront, Haverstraw Bay Park offers one of the few public places to access the river. The park has one of the least expensive motorboat/jet skis ($10 fee) and kayak (free) launches countywide, along with playgrounds, a walking trail, fishing, picnic areas, a picnic pavilion, the 9/11 and Gulf War Memorials and restrooms.

The pavilion, along with those located at Kennedy Dells and Kakiat parks are available to be reserved.

Reservation information at RocklandCountyNY.gov/departments/environmental-resources (Environmental Resources | Rockland County, NY (rocklandcountyny.gov)

Over at Kennedy Dells parkgoers will find a very scenic variety of relatively easy walking trails that meander through meadows, woods, a lovely 2-acre grove of evergreens and along Crum Creek featuring a relic dam and mill. Picnic tables, a dog run, and restrooms are also available.

Or head over to New City for a lovely stroll at Zebrowski-Morahan Demarest Kill park that includes a shaded trail around the pond which was recently restocked with fish.

If you’re a fan of hiking some of our popular trails are at Clausland Mountain, Mountainview, South

Mountain, Kakiat and Dater parks. While the County parks offer approximately 30 miles of walking and hiking trails, the trails at several of these parks connect to other State/Town parks providing longer hiking options. Hikes in these parks range from relatively easy to difficult but proper footwear is recommended on all trails.

We applaud the dedicated Rangers, Security and Grounds workers of the Department of Environmental Resources that operate and maintain our beautiful park system.

As the summer sun graces us with its warmth and brilliance, there’s no better time to explore the natural treasures right here in Rockland. Studies consistently show that spending time in nature improves mental well-being and reduces stress, so this summer I encourage our residents and visitors to let our County parks be your gateway to nature, adventure, and relaxation.