Adventurous hikers and cyclers will thrill to the park's natural trails.

What to do

Caumsett, a 1,500-acre facility, is technically in Lloyd Harbor, about eight miles north of downtown Huntington. The main loop is a perfect place for an invigorating bike ride with kids. Several family restrooms are interspersed throughout the path. More adventurous cyclers might choose to veer off to one of the dirt trails to the left or right that lead to the sapphire waterfront. Kids will be enchanted by the creatures they spot while they exercise, including chipmunks, squirrels, horses, hawks, and deer. The loop is also an ideal location for walking and hiking, but be sure to bring your bug spray.

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Grab a fishing pole and a permit and head to Caumsett's uncrowded beach.

Teeny fishermen and fisherwomen will revel in the opportunities at Caumsett, where an uncrowded beach offers dazzling views of Connecticut across the shimmering Sound. Plenty of good fish are available, but each little fisherman will need his or her own license, which can be obtained at outdoor suppliers like Dick’s Sporting Goods. Alternatively, obtain a 24-hour pass from Caumsett State Park for $25 and cast away.

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Caumsett's OceansWide summer program offers kids a hands-on marine life experience. Photo courtesy of OceansWide

The OceansWide Summer Program offers hands-on exploration of the park’s acreage and 2½ miles of coastline. Courses include ROV (remotely operated underwater vehicles) and offer concentrations in designing, marine archaeology, seashore ecology, glacial geography, and more. According to Tori Mangus, Long Island programming coordinator, “all programs have STEM concepts in mind and focus on allowing students to become the explorers and encourage them to become stewards of our environment."

The Caumsett Foundation, an all-volunteer organization, presents nature walks, musical events, and hikes throughout the year. Some happenings are for grown-ups only, but others are kid-friendly. While many of these events are FREE, some have moderate fees, so check its website for additional information.

Where to eat

Since you must travel through the Huntington area to get to Caumsett, consider stopping by the Village Art Walk at the Heckscher Museum of Art or Sandbox Playspace in Huntington for a morning browse or an afternoon romp before your nature ramble. Mundays and The Golden Dolphin are great local destinations for a family-friendly lunch, or pack a basket with your favorite natural treats and munch at one of the many tables dotting the Caumsett trail. Downtown Huntington has a number of pizzerias and other family-friendly options as well a host of ice cream parlors, including local favorites Herrell's and Kilwins.

Getting there

Caumsett State Park can be reached via the Long Island Expressway or Northern State Parkway to Route 110 north. Follow 110 to Route 25A west. Follow 25A to West Neck Road and turn right. West Neck Road becomes Lloyd Harbor Road and can be followed into the park. There is an $8 fee per vehicle for the day. The Long Island Rail Road's Huntington station is about nine miles south of the park. 

Unless noted, photos are courtesy of the Caumsett Foundation.