Sunken Meadow Park with Kids
Getting There: Rte. 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway
Kings Park, NY 11754
Just the Facts:
Sunken Meadow State Park offers a sparkling beach and lush forest- all in one day!
The Details:
After years of exploring many Long Island attractions with three kids, I can wholeheartedly say that Sunken Meadow State Park is one of our ABSOLUTE favorite ways to spend a family day.
What To Do:
If you have not spent a family day at Sunken Meadow State Park, then put this on your “to-do-immediately list”! First, pack everything you’ll need for a morning on the beach- pails and shovels will keep kids occupied as you relax with gorgeous views of the Long Island Sound. Stroll down the boardwalk to pick your perfect spot. During the summer, plan to get here early to secure your place on the sand as it can get crowded. The calm waters of the Long Island Sound are perfect for kids to swim in and don’t forget your water shoes- it can get rocky. Make sure to point out to kids that you can see all the way to Connecticut from the shore.
After enjoying the beach, you’ll be ready to head over to the forest for some nature exploration. Cross through the parking lot from the beach and you are ready to explore the green area. Start off with an easy hike by crossing Sunken Meadow Creek using one of the three scenic bridges. You might catch a whole school of fish gathered in the creek, as we have many times! Fishing is allowed, check the state park website for more information. Several easy trails will take you into the park to view the lush forest. Picnic areas are available within these green areas. In my own experience, a heavy duty stroller can pushed on the general trails, but if it has rained or you try to go on one of the slimmer “off road” trails it would not work.
Finally, there is an awesome playground complex that has play spaces for a range of children from toddlers to ten year olds. The play structures are unique and kids can spend a whole afternoon running through these various areas. The playground area has many play spaces like a pirate ship and climbing area- it is a family favorite for us.
Need to Know: There are a few concession stands on the boardwalk, but your best bet is to pack all of your food for the day. There are items such as hot dogs and ice cream available.
Parking Fees (By Car)
4/6/24 – 5/24/24: 8am-4:00pm, weekends and holidays – $8/car
5/25/24 – 9/6/24: 7am-6:00pm weekends and holidays; 8am-4:00pm weekdays – $10/car.
9/7/24 – 9/8/24: 8am-4:00pm weekends and holidays – $10/car9/9/24 – 11/3/24: 8am-4:00pm, weekends & holidays – $8/car
Buses: $35
If you have an Empire Pass ($80 for the year) you can enter free with the pass.
