Today, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker was joined by Legislator Kara Hahn to announce “Parks Appreciation Week” in Suffolk County. The week, which runs from Saturday, April 20 through Sunday, April 28, coincides with National Parks Week, and will provide Suffolk residents with free access to all county parks, as well as promote special programs and services.
Typically, Suffolk County Parks Green Key Card is required to enter many of the county parks at a charge of $30 for a 3 year pass. If you do not have the pass, an entrance fee is required. During Parks Appreciation Week, county parks will be open with no admission required, to encourage residents to visit and utilize the county’s beautiful parks, including educational classes, guided hikes and free fishing.
“Suffolk County’s parks compliment Long Island’s $5.5B tourism industry, and the county will continue to invest in open space to not only protect our groundwater but to support the vitality of our local economy. This initiative was created to encourage residents to discover our parks and enjoy the outdoors,” said Legislator Anker. “From pristine woodlands to our beautiful beaches, I encourage our residents to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to see what Suffolk County’s parks have to offer.”
“With over 63,000 acres of parkland in Suffolk County, I can think of over 63,000 reasons to get outside this spring,” said bill co-sponsor and Parks Committee Chairwoman Legislator Kara Hahn. “No matter the interest, Suffolk County parks offer something for everyone. Through ‘Suffolk County Park Appreciation Week’ and my ‘Park-a-Day-in-May’ challenge and ‘Parks Passport’ program, we hope all of our residents will discover at least one new way to enjoy our public lands.”
With over 50 parks and 4 golf courses, not only does Suffolk County Parks offer beach access and camping, the county also has available: bicycling, boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, fitness trails, bird watching and scuba diving. In addition, The Suffolk County Parks Department has several hunting lodges and preserves, as well as a combination of full service marinas, boat ramps and boat launches throughout the county.
The parks department manages over 200 historic sites that provide tours and educational programs. Sites include: Yaphank Historic District, Hawkins House, Blydenburgh Farm, Cathedral Pines, Deep Hollow Cattle Ranch, Old Field Farm, Sagtikos Manor, Deepwells Farm, Scully Estate, Cedar Island Lighthouse and St. James General Store.
Green Key Cards are available to purchase at select parks and offices across the county which allows access to the parks at discounted rates, as well as to the golf, camping, marina online booking websites. The parks will officially open after Memorial Day and a Green Key Card or entrance fee will be required.
