Long Island Parks Recreation Parks Nassau County Long Island New York

Nassau County Parks

Active Parks
The Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums manages some 40 parks. These include "Active" Parks, which are large, offer diverse activities, are heavily used by the public, and tend to have full-time, on-site staff; and "Passive" Parks, which are far smaller and limited to local usage, in many cases consisting of a single athletic field or small "green" area. Generally, Active Parks are open from early morning until dusk, with late hours in the summer and later hours for particular winter activities such as ice skating. Please call individual parks for the schedule of hours. Click the name of a park below for more information.

North Shore

Christopher Morley Park
Roslyn-North Hills, Searingtown Road; centrally located north of the Long Island Expressway
Phone: 516-571-8113
On Site Staff: Yes
A beautiful 98-acre park, Christopher Morley provides facilities for a range of athletic activities, including swimming, basketball and baseball. In addition, there is a 9-hole golf course, nature trails, a popular outdoor ice skating rink, and a basin for model-boat enthusiasts. Christopher Morley Park, set on 98 acres and centrally located in the northern part of the county, has been in the Nassau County park system since 1961. The park provides numerous opportunities for recreation:

Athletics:
There are five tennis courts (fee and Leisure Pass required);
four lighted handball/paddleball courts;
four basketball courts;
and two paddle-tennis courts.
Athletic fields include three baseball fields (softball and hardball, including Little League) and volleyball courts.

Family/Kids:
A playground provides a variety of activities, including a nontraditional climbing apparatus.
Hobby enthusiasts can enjoy the 140- by 300-foot boat basin designed for model boats.
There are unreserved and reserved (fee) picnic areas, which include barbecue equipment. Leisure Pass and fee required for reserved areas; call 516-571-8113.

Golf:
The park offer features a 9-hole, par-30 golf course (Leisure Pass and fee required; call 571-8120 for information). The course is 1,603 yards, with holes ranging from 97 yards to 267 yards. Click here for link to Nassau County Golf.

Ice Skating:
Christopher Morley�s outdoor ice skating rink was named by News12 Long Island viewers as the best outdoor skating rink on Long Island. The facility is used by recreational skaters and hockey teams. Group and private lessons are available; skate rentals are also available. Open from early December through mid-March, including night hours from Thursday through Sunday. Call 571-8123 for skating information.

Swimming:
The swimming pool complex (Leisure Pass and fee required) includes an Olympic-sized pool, diving tank with boards, and a "kiddie" pool. Lockers and showers are available.
Pets:

An enclosed dog run is located near the maintenance building. Owners are responsible for clean-up.

Other Activities:
The park features 30 acres of wooded nature trails that provide an ideal area for a leisurely stroll or jogging.
There are courts for horseshoes and shuffleboard.
The Christopher Morley "Knothole" is a tiny one-room wooden cabin formerly used as a studio by prominent 20th-century Long Island editor and writer Morley (who authored such novels as "Thunder on the Left" and "Kitty Foyle"); it was later transported to the park. The facility is located by the dog run, and is open occasionally for public programs.

Directions:
To reach Christopher Morley Park, take the Long Island Expressway to Exit 36/Searingtown Road exit (from east or west). Take Searingtown Road North and look for the park entrance on right (about 200 yards from the LIE).

Hempstead Harbor Park
West Shore Road
Phone: 516-571-7930
On Site Staff: Yes
A 60-acre property set between pretty West Shore Road on the west and the Hempstead Harbor to the east, this park offers a beach, a half-mile promenade along the Harbor, a fishing pier, and a range of athletic and family activities, including a large picnic area, a miniature golf course, basketball courts, and handball and paddleball courts. Set against the backdrop of Hempstead Harbor, this park has been in the Nassau County park system since 1962. A parking fee is required from May 28-September 5 ($5 for Nassau County residents; $17 for non-county residents). Activities at the park include:

Athletics:
There are seven lighted basketball courts;
six lighted handball/paddleball courts;
and one baseball field.
There is also a volleyball area on the beach.

Family/Kids:
There are unreserved and reserved (fee) picnic areas, with barbecue equipment, in a shaded, hilly area. Leisure Pass and fee required for reserved areas.
There is a new mini-golf course, near the beach.
An aerodrome area is available, off West Shore Road about a half-mile north of the park, on the side of West Shore Road opposite the park. Please ask for directions in the Administration Office.

Fishing:
The pier on the north side of the park, near the entrance, may be used for fishing (no license required).

Other Activities:
The half-mile promenade next to the beach provides for a relaxing and pretty walk.
The park has two bocci courts and five shuffleboard courts.

Directions:
To reach Hempstead Harbor Park, take the Northern State Parkway to Exit 29 North (Roslyn Rd.) Follow Rosyln Road to the end (Clock Tower on right). Bear left at traffic light to West Shore Road. Proceed for approximately 2-3 miles. Hempstead Harbor Park is on the righ thand side (after Bar Beach.)

Whitney Pond Park
Manhasset, Northern Boulevard and Community Drive
Phone: 516-571-8300
On Site Staff: Yes
A 24-acre park located conveniently off Northern Boulevard, Whitney Pond offers walking trails around the park and pond, basketball and tennis courts, and swimming pools. A pretty, hilly park with a large pond on its northern end, Whitney Pond has been in the Nassau County park system since 1947 and offers a variety of activities:

Athletics:
There are 12 basketball hoops;
four handball/paddleball courts;
and four tennis courts (tennis lessons are available for a fee; call park for information).

Family/Kids:
There is a small playground area and an area with picnic tables and barbecues.

Swimming:
The park has one swimming pool, a small diving pool, and a �kiddie� pool.

Other Activities:
The park has a number of pretty walking paths that wind past streams and around Whitney Pond.

Directions:
To reach Whitney Pond Park, take Long Island Expressway to Exit 33 (Community Drive) heading north. Make the turn onto Community Drive and take north. Park is on the right, just after the police precinct (by Macy�s sign).

Central Nassau

Cantiague Park
Hicksville, West John Street east of Cantiague Rock Road; centrally located off the Northern State Parkway
Phone: 516-571-7056
On Site Staff: Yes
This 127-acre park offers an excellent and large swimming complex and a terrific indoor ice-skating rink that has played host to Olympic skaters. Visitors can enjoy a range of other outdoor athletic and family activities at this popular and centrally located park. Cantiague Park has been part of the county park system since 1961 and is centrally located in Hicksville, just off the Northern State Parkway and east of the Wantagh State Parkway. This 127-acre park offers the following activities:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are five lighted tennis courts (Leisure Pass and fee required);
Six lighted handball/paddleball courts;
Three lighted basketball courts.
Athletic fields, lighted for night play, include four softball fields and four multi-sport fields (two lighted). Soccer, football, lacrosse and rugby are played on the multi-sport fields. All sports fields require permits and fees (Leisure Pass required. Please call 516-572-0248).

Family/Kids:
A renovated 18-hole miniature golf course is a popular attraction for children and families (fee).
A playground provides activities for children of varying ages, from pre-schoolers to teens.
There are two reserved picnic areas (Leisure Pass required and fee; to reserve, call 516-571-7056) and one non-reserved family area.

Golf:
Cantiague features a 9-hole, par-30 golf course (Leisure Pass and fee required). The course is 1,878 yards, with holes ranging from 150 yards to 272 yards. In addition, the park has an illuminated driving range (fee). Click here for link to Nassau County Golf.

Ice Skating:
Cantiague's indoor ice skating rink is a magnificent facility that is used by recreational skaters and hockey teams. The rink has also played host to Olympic gold medalists such as Nancy Kerrigan, who performed there in 2004, and was the New York Islanders (National Hockey League) practice facility from 1979 to 1992. Skating lessons are available, as is a skate rental. The rink also has a snack bar and bleacher seating. A fee is charged at the rink.

Swimming:
The swimming pool complex, named by News12 Long Island viewers as the best outdoor swimming facility on Long Island, includes an Olympic-sized pool, two water slides, a diving pool, a �kiddie� pool, a training pool and an interactive water-play area. Lockers, showers and a refreshment area are located near the pool. Fee required, with Leisure Pass holders eligible for a discount.

Other Activities:
In the gaming area next to the playground, there are shuffleboard courts, a bocci court, and tables with inlaid chess and checker boards.

Directions:
To reach Cantiague Park, take the Long Island Expressway to Exit 41 South (Broadway). Take fork (106/107) to West John Street. Turn right onto West John and proceed to Cantiague Park. The entrance is on your right. Or take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 29 North (Hicksville Road). Proceed approximately 2-3 miles into Hicksville. Turn right onto West John Street and proceed into Cantiague Park. The entrance is on your right.

Eisenhower Park
East Meadow, Merrick and Stewart avenues; centrally located between the north and south shores
Phone: 516-572-0348
On Site Staff: Yes
The jewel of Nassau County's park system and centrally located in East Meadow, Eisenhower provides 930 acres of activities, including three outstanding 18-hole golf courses; a world-class Aquatic Center with a fitness room and a comprehensive schedule of activities and classes; athletic fields and tennis courts; picnic areas; miniature golf; a batting cage; playgrounds; summertime entertainment at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theater; and a restaurant. Part of the county park system since 1944, Eisenhower offers a full range of athletic and family activities, including some of the finest facilities in Nassau County and an exciting schedule of summertime events. The park is centrally located in East Meadow, bordered by Hempstead Turnpike on the south and Old County Road on the north. The following activities are available at the park:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are 16 lighted tennis courts, near Parking fields No. 2 or 4 (an hourly seasonal fee is charged).
Athletic fields, several lighted for night play, include 17 baseball fields (14 for softball and three for hardball), four soccer fields and three football fields.
There is also a batting cage with nine separate batting areas offering varying pitching speeds for baseball or a softball option. Baseball speeds as follows: fast, 80-85 mph; medium, 60-65 mph; and slow, 40-45 mph. A fee is required; call 572-0407 for information.
The park's world-class Aquatic Center includes a fitness center (Leisure pass and fee required).

Golf:
Eisenhower features three excellent 18-hole golf courses open to the public: the Red, White and Blue courses. The Red Course hosts the Commerce Bank (PGA) Championship. Call 572-0327/0328 (Leisure Pass and fee required).
In addition, the park has an illuminated driving range; call 572-0336. Click here for link to Nassau County Golf.

Family/Kids:
An 18-hole miniature golf course near the Aquatic Center is a popular attraction for children and families.
There are three playground areas with a range activities for children; one (which includes a sprinkler pool) located on the Hempstead Avenue side of the park, near Parking Field No. 2; a second on the Merrick Road side, by Parking Field No. 1A; and a third by the Park Boulevard side toward Hempstead Turnpike, by Parking Field No. 4.
There are reserved picnic areas (Leisure Pass and fee required; call 572-0348) and non-reserved areas.
Safety Town, operated by the Nassau County Police Department, provides children with a variety of learning experiences, set in a miniature town. During July and August, there are children's programs from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Children must be Nassau County residents, ages seven through nine, and accompanied by an adult. From September through June, the facility is open to school groups. Call 516-573-3190 for more information.
Swimming:

Built in 1998 for the Goodwill Games, the Nassau County Aquatic Center at Eisenhower Park is one of the finest swimming facilities in the U.S. It regularly hosts major swimming competitions and is also open to the public (Leisure Pass and fee required). The center offers a full menu of swimming lessons for toddlers, youngsters and teens. The Center includes a �stretch� 50-meter pool that is 68 meters long, with three movable bulkheads. There is also a 25-meter diving well with competition diving towers, platforms and springboards. In addition, there is a beautifully renovated fitness center, located above the pool (Leisure Pass and fee required). Call 572-0501 for information.

Fourth of July celebration at
Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre

Entertainment:
The Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre is an outdoor theater that hosts a full schedule of entertainment events during the summer, from concerts to movies.

Memorials:
The large and beautiful Veterans Memorial and Wall of Honor commemorates the contributions of the nation�s veterans, while the Nassau County Firefighters Memorial honors county firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Other Activities:

There is a jogging path that begins on the Hempstead Turnpike side, near Parking Field No. 2 (starting in front of the field house building).
In the gaming area next to the playground, there are shuffleboard courts, a bocci court and tables with inlaid chess and checker boards. A shelter with benches and tables is also available for those who wish to play cards and other similar games.

Dining:
Eisenhower is home to Carltun on the Park restaurant, a privately run facility operated in a former country club. The Carltun offers a restaurant, bar, banquet facilities and a meeting room. The restaurant has played host to numerous events, including a fundraiser in 2004 for President George Bush. Call 542-0700 for information.

Directions:
Take Meadowbrook Parkway North to Exit M3 East/Stewart Avenue. Make a right onto Stewart Avenue and take this until you reach the park. Or take Meadowbrook Parkway South to Exit M3/Stewart Avenue. Make a left onto Stewart Avenue and take this until you reach the park.

South Shore

Bay Park
East Rockaway, First Avenue; located in the Southwest corner of Nassau County
Phone: 516-571-7245
On Site Staff: In season
Bordered by the East Rockaway Channel on the east and Hewlett Bay on the south and west, Bay Park offers 96 scenic acres dedicated to a range of athletic and family activities. Bay Park has been in the Nassau County park system since 1947 and is located in the southwest corner of the county, in East Rockaway. This 96-acre park offers the following activities:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are two lighted tennis courts (Leisure Pass and fee required);
and two lighted basketball courts.
Athletic fields include one softball field (lighted) and one hardball field. Soccer, football, lacrosse and rugby are played on the multi-sport fields. All sports fields require permits (Leisure Pass required).
There are bicycle and running paths.
An outdoor roller rink is open and available for charter.

Family/Kids:
A beautiful picnic area and group area on Hewlett Bay are available; the group area includes a fee and requires a Leisure Pass and advance reservation 516 571-7245.
A new and large playground offers various activities, including a spray pool, and lots of room for running and jumping.

Golf:
A 9-hole, par-30 golf course is open between March and December. The course is 1,956 yards, with holes ranging from 130 yards to 352 yards. There is also a putting green and a clubhouse. Call 571-7244 for reservations and waiting times (Leisure Pass and fee required). Click here for link to Nassau County Golf.
Fishing and boating:

A fishing dock is open year-round (weather permitting), along with a transient sailboat launch and launch ramp (three-slip boat ramp; Leisure Pass and permit required). Call 571-7245 for information.
Other:

A bocci court and horseshoe pit are available.

Directions:
To reach Bay Park, take Southern State Parkway to Exit 17/Hempstead Avenue South. Take Hempstead Avenue to fork (Ocean Avenue). Take left on fork (Ocean Avenue) through Lynbrook and East Rockaway to Main Street (follow park signs). Make a left onto Front Street. Make a Right onto Althouse Avenue. Make a left onto First and follow to park or go straight into the park (lighted fields).

Cedar Creek Park
Seaford, Merrick Road east of Wantagh Avenue; located in the Southeast part of Nassau County
Phone: 516-571-7472
On Site Staff: Yes (as available)
With Seaman's Creek on its southern border and East Bay beyond, and with Cedar Creek bisecting its center, 259-acre Cedar Creek Park provides a lovely setting along with an assortment of recreational activities. The park has some of Nassau County's more unique facilities and a playground judged by News12 Long Island viewers as the best on Long Island. Cedar Creek Park has been part of the county park system since 1975 and is located in the southeast part of Nassau County, in Seaford. This 259-acre park offers the following activities:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are eight tennis courts (Leisure Pass required for reservations);
eight handball/paddleball courts;
and two basketball courts (lighted).
Athletic fields include two softball fields and four soccer fields, with usage requiring permits. Multipurpose fields are used for football and lacrosse (by permit)
There are 1.5-mile and 1-mile paths that can be used for jogging or walking, as well as a bicycle path.

Family/Kids:
The playground was judged by News12 Long Island viewers as the best on Long Island.
Unreserved picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-serve basis; three reserved picnic areas can accommodate 100 people (Leisure Pass required).
A roller rink is open year-round and is available for charter, weather permitting.
An aerodrome field designed for radio-controlled model airplane hobbyists is available. A permit is required (call 571-7460).
Sled hills are open during January and February, weather permitting.
A mini-car race track is also available.

Pets:
An enclosed dog run is available; owners are responsible for clean-up and dogs permitted in run area only.

Other Activities:
There is an archery range; patrons must bring their own equipment.

Directions:
Take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 27 South (Wantagh Parkway). Exit off the Wantagh Parkway at W6 (Merrick Road East). Continue down Merrick Road for approximately half-mile and look for the park entrance on your right.

Centennial Park
Roosevelt, Centennial Avenue and Babylon Turnpike; centrally located near the South Shore
Phone: 516-571-8695
On Site Staff: Yes
A 2-acre community resource, this newly renovated park provides a variety of recreational activities, including a small playground, a dozen basketball hoops and two new color-coated tennis courts. In addition, there are paddleball and handball courts, table games, water sprinklers in season, and picnic tables. The beautifully renovated basketball courts feature fiberglass backboards and color-coated courts. Basketball legend Julius Erving ("Doctor J"), who grew up in the area, played ball at these courts as a youngster. A 2-acre community resource, this newly renovated park provides a variety of recreational activities, including a small playground, a dozen basketball hoops and two new color-coated tennis courts. In addition, there are paddleball and handball courts, table games, water sprinklers in season, and picnic tables. The beautifully renovated basketball courts feature fiberglass backboards and color-coated courts. Basketball legend Julius Erving ("Doctor J"), who grew up in the area, played ball at these courts as a youngster.

Directions:
To reach Centennial Park, take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 21 South (Nassau Road). Proceed down Nassau Road to Centennial Avenue. The park is located on that corner.

Cow Meadow Park
Freeport, South Main Street near Ann Drive South; centrally located on the South Shore
Phone: 516-571-8685
On Site Staff: Yes
Located at the end of South Main Street and bordered by the Freeport Creek, Cow Meadow is a 171-acre park and preserve that offers athletic fields and courts, together with a nature preserve and a new marina. Located in Freeport on the south shore of Long Island, Cow Meadow has been part of the county park system since 1970. This park and preserve serve to protect and showcase 150 acres of Long Island�s marine wetlands, including salt marsh, mud flat and tidal creek habitats. Cow Meadow is home to more than 150 varieties of birds and more than a dozen mammal species. A quarter-mile nature trail winds through upland bayberry thicket, tidal marshes and creeks, providing a pleasant and easy-to-walk diversion for families and individuals. In addition to the nature trail, the park offers several other activities:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There is one baseball field with lighting;
four lighted basketball courts;
six lighted tennis courts;
four lighted handball courts;
and a 1-mile jogging course.
Football and soccer are also played at the park.

Family/Kids:
There is a playground as well as reserved and unreserved picnic areas with barbecues (Leisure Pass required; to reserve, call 571-8685).

Fishing/Boating:
A marina with approximately 30 boat slips is available; call 608-0514 for information (Leisure Pass required).
A fishing pier is available year-round, weather permitting.

Other Amenities:
A community room is available for a nominal fee (Leisure Pass required).

Directions:
To reach Cow Meadow Park and Preserve, take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 22 South (Meadowbrook Parkway). Exit at M9 West (Merrick Road). Proceed to the left lane immediately and turn left onto Mill Road. Take Mill Road to South Main Street and turn left. Proceed down South Main Street to the park. The entrance is on the left.

Grant Park
Hewlett, Broadway and Sheridan Avenue; located in the Southwest part of Nassau County
Phone: 516-571-7821
On Site Staff: Yes
This beautiful 35-acre park nestled in a residential area provides family and athletic activities, including a roller and ice-skating rink, ball fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing in the park lake. Grant Park, part of the Nassau County park system since 1955, is located in the southwest part of the county. The 35-acre park offers the following activities:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are three basketball courts;
four tennis courts;
and four handball/paddleball courts;
Athletic fields include three baseball and softball fields as well as soccer fields (permit required).
There are paths for joggers, bicyclists and for strolling.

Family/Kids:
A modern playground area is designed with three areas for three separate age groups: pre-schoolers, 4-to-8 year olds and 9-to-12 year olds. There is also a spray-pool area.
Unreserved and reserved picnic areas include barbecue equipment (Leisure Pass and fee required for reserved areas; call 516-571-7821).
An outdoor roller rink is available for public and charter sessions on Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 to 3 p.m. from spring to early fall.
In the winter, the roller rink is transformed into a skating rink open seven days a week, including evenings on weekends, with public and charter sessions; lessons are also available, along with a skate rental.
A sled hill is open in the winter, when weather conditions cooperate.

Fishing:
The lake at Grant Park is open for fishing; visitors can also take a pleasant walk or jog around the lake, on a concrete path.

Directions:
To reach Grant Park, take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 19 South (Peninsula Boulevard). Continue down Peninsula Boulevard for approximately 5 miles, through Rockville Center and Lynbrook (approximately 1 mile past Sunrise Highway) to Rockaway Avenue (sign says Grant Park left). Make a left turn onto Rockaway Avenue and follow the road around to the traffic light on Broadway. Go past that light onto Sheridan Avenue. Park entrance will be on the right just past the police station.

Inwood Park
Inwood, end of Bayview Avenue; located in the Southwest corner of Nassau County
Phone: 516-571-7894
On Site Staff: In Season
Surrounded by water, this 16-acre park provides a pleasant setting for several athletic and family activities. Inwood Park, part of the county park system since 1956, is located in the southeast part of Nassau County and requires a Leisure Pass for entry. This 16-acre park, surrounded by water, offers the following activities.

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There is one lighted baseball field that is also used for football;
and two basketball courts
There is also a jogging or walking path around the perimeter of the park, by the water.

Family/Kids:
A new playground provides a number of activities for children.
A lighted roller rink is open year-round and is available for charter, weather permitting.
A picnic area is also available, with reserved and unreserved areas and barbecues (Leisure Pass and fee required for reserved areas; call 516-571-7821).

Fishing/Boating:
The park offers saltwater fishing and crabbing.
A launch ramp is available for boaters (Leisure Pass and permit required).

Directions:
To reach Inwood Park, take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 19 South (Peninsula Boulevard). Proceed down Peninsula Boulevard to the end. Make a left onto Rockaway Turnpike (large intersection). Make a right onto Burnside Avenue. Burnside curves to the left and becomes Sheridan Boulevard. Take Sheridan to Bayview Avenue and turn right. Continue down Bayview into the park.

Jones Beach State Park & Beach
Ocean Parkway
P.O. Box 1000
Wantagh, NY 11793
Phone: 516-785-1600
Park comprises 2,413 acres, 6-1/2 miles of ocean beach frontage, with a 1/2 mile of frontage developed for still water bathing. Jones Beach State Park, most renowned of all Long Island State Parks derives its name from Major Thomas Jones who came to Long Island in 1692, built, near Massapequa, the first brick house on Long Island and eventually acquired a total of 6,000 acres. Apparently he thought he also owned a part of what is now Jones Beach because around the year of 1700 he established a whaling station on the outer beach near the site of the present park. Jones died in 1713.

Jones Beach State Park opened to the public on August 4, 1929. On that day Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt, foreigner Governor Alfred E. Smith, and at that time Commission President Robert Moses, were principal speakers. Its success and popularity were immediately apparent. In l930,the first full year of operation, a million and a half persons visited the park. In July, 1931, the West Bathhouse with swimming and diving pools opened. The Wantagh Causeway soon became overcrowded and serious traffic delay occurred every Sunday. On November 3, 1931, the Town of Hempstead voted to convey to the State all of Short Beach, the area between the Park and Jones Inlet, together with a right of way for an additional causeway from the mainland, near Freeport, to the Park. In 1933 Commissioners served on the board of the Jones Beach State Park Authority that built, maintained and operated the causeways to Jones Beach, some park facilities that includes the Jones Beach Theater and the Southern State Parkway in Nassau County.

Swimming has always been the top attraction. Few places offer facilities for such fine surf bathing, stillwater bay bathing and swimming pools with diving and wading pools. Thousands are also attracted by the other facilities for healthful recreation. There are basketball courts, deck tennis and shuffleboard courts, 18-hole pitch and putt golf course, a miniature golf course, softball diamonds, picnic areas, miles of surf fishing areas, fishing docks and a boat basin, outdoor dancing and a two-mile long boardwalk. In addition, special sports programs, Children's Jubilee Festival, concerts and other outdoor entertainment are presented. The park comprises2,413 acres with 6.5 miles of ocean beach frontage and a half mile of bay frontage developed for stillwater bathing. There are two bathhouses, refreshment stands, a restaurant, playgrounds, barbecue and picnic areas, first-aid stations, ice-cream parlors, beach shops and gift shops.

The original Jones Beach Marine Stadium was a temporary wooden structure constructed in the early 1930's as a work relief project that had to be razed in 1945 because it became unsafe. During its life span of about ten years, the wooden stadium earned a reputation for the finest in aquatic sports events and musical entertainment.

The new theater, constructed at the same point on Zachs Bay asits predecessor, retained the basic brick design of a stage separated from the spectators by water. Improvements included steel, concrete and brick structure seating 8,200 persons, a104-foot wide stage with a 76-foot revolving center and an underwater tunnel leading from the shore to the stage, with underground elevators for the transportation of supplies and stage scenery.

The Theater:
The theater was reconstructed in 1991 and 1992 under contract with promoter Ron Delsener, it is an outstanding facility that can seat 11,200 persons. It has become one of the top rated concert stadiums hosting world famous performers, along with upgraded seating, restrooms & service stations.

The Tower:
The Jones Beach tower, now a familiar Jones Beach State Park landmark, was modeled on the campanile of St. Mark's Cathedral in Venice. It is 200 feet high, made of brick and stone, and houses a 315,000 gallon water tank for storage of water from four deep wells, each over 1,000 feet deep.

West End Area:
The West End Area of the park features many undeveloped areas that are home to a variety of migratory birds and natural plants. It also provides wonderful surf fishing opportunities as well as surfing by the jetty. The boat basin contains 76 slips that are available free of charge for day visitors coming by boat.

Facilities/Services:
Park comprises 2,413 acres
6-1/2 miles of ocean beach frontage, with a 1/2 mile of frontage developed for still water bathing

Pitch putt golf course
Miniature golf course
Paddle tennis
Shuffle board courts
Basketball
Softball fields - permit only
Boardwalk Restaurant - full service restaurant
West Bathhouse Ice Cream Parlor
Refreshment stands
Central Mall Beach Shop
Park Operations
Park is open year-round, however, activities vary according to the season. For more information about the park operating schedule and special activities please call 516-785-1600. For group outing (picnic) or youth (example day camp) outing applications, please call 516-669-1000 x 223.

Directions:
Thirty-three (33) miles, from Manhattan via Meadowbrook Parkway South and Wantagh Parkway South.

Nickerson Beach Park
Lido, Lido Boulevard; located on Long Beach by the Atlantic Ocean
Phone: 516-571-7700
On Site Staff: Yes
Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, this 121-acre park offers the lure of beaches and waves but also provides a number of additional opportunities for fun, including new athletic courts, two pools, and a new playground and skateboard facility. Nickerson Beach, part of the county park system since 1967, has undergone an extensive renovation and offers numerous activities in the park or on the beach.

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are two new basketball courts in the "Fun Zone" and a basketball court by the cabana area;
and two tennis courts;
A new baseball field is being constructed (permit required).

Family/Kids:
A renovated "Fun Zone" playground area includes an adventure playground and a skating park.
There are unreserved and reserved (fee) picnic areas that include barbecue equipment and a campground. Leisure Pass and fee required for reserved areas; call 516-571-7701.

Swimming:
There are two pools at either end of the park, along with small �kiddie� pools (fee required).
Visitors can also swim in the ocean.
There are new beach showers and cabanas, with cabanas awarded via a lottery system (fee required).

Pets:
An enclosed dog run is located across the parking lot from the Fun Zone. Owners are responsible for clean-up.

Directions:
To reach Nickerson Beach Park from the North Shore, take Meadowbrook Parkway South to Loop Parkway (Exit M10) to Point Lookout. Turn right onto Lido Boulevard. Nassau Beach is about half-mile on your left-hand side. From the South Shore, take Southern State Parkway (East) to Meadowbrook Parkway (South) toward Jones Beach. Just before the Jones Beach Toll, go off onto the Loop Parkway (exit M10) toward Point Lookout. Take Loop Parkway all the way to the end. Turn right: Nickerson Beach Park is on the left-hand side about a half-mile away.

North Woodmere Park
North Woodmere, Branch Boulevard and Hungry Harbor Road; located in the Southwest corner of Nassau County
Phone: 516-571-7801
On Site Staff: Yes
This 150-acre park is surrounded by water and offers a range of seasonal and year-round activities. North Woodmere, located near the water in the southwest part of Nassau County, has been part of the county park system since 1965 and is a large and busy site with a range of activities:

Athletics/Physical Activities:
There are 10 tennis courts that are lighted in season (Leisure Pass and fee required);
six lighted handball/paddleball courts;
and two lighted basketball courts.
Athletic fields include two softball fields and one lighted baseball field (permit required).
Football and soccer are also played at the park.
Cross-country skiing is available, weather permitting.

Family/Kids:
A state-of-the-art playground is a popular attraction, with separate sections for different age groups, and a spray pool area.
There are unreserved and reserved (Leisure Pass and fee required) picnic areas, which include barbecue equipment.

Golf:
North Woodmere has a 9-hole, par-30 golf course (Leisure Pass and fee required; call 571-7814). The course is 2,282 yards, with holes ranging from 140 yards to 395 yards.
The park also has a lighted driving range. Click here for link to Nassau County Golf.

Swimming:
A swimming complex (571-7806; Leisure Pass and fee required) includes an Olympic-sized pool, a diving pool with boards, a water slide, and three pools for youngsters (a wading pool, a training pool, and an interactive water-play area). Swimming lessons are also available (fee).
The pool complex includes various conveniences, such as lockers, dressing areas, showers, a concession stand, lounge and deck chairs, and a sun shelter.

Fishing:
The shorefront at the park is ideal for fishing and crabbing.

Other Amenities:
A community room is available for nonprofit groups (Leisure Pass, insurance and reservations required).

Directions:
To reach North Woodmere Park, take Belt Parkway to Rockaway Boulevard. Take Rockaway Blvd. (Turnpike) to Peninsula Boulevard. Make left onto Peninsula Boulevard and take to Branch Boulevard. Make a left on Branch and follow it around to the right. Just after it turns right the park entrance is on the left.

Rev. Arthur Mackey Sr. Park
Roosevelt, Lakeside Drive and Washington Road; centrally located near the South Shore
Phone: 516-571-8692
On Site Staff: Yes
A beautiful 27-acre site, Rev. Arthur Mackey Park combines numerous recreational facilities, including a new playground, with a peaceful lake surrounded by benches. Rev. Arthur Mackey Park, with a central South Shore location, has been part of the county park system since 1984 and offers the following activities:

Athletics:
There are two tennis courts;
two handball/paddleball courts;
eight basketball courts;
and a baseball field.

Family/Kids:
A new and large playground area provides a range of activities for youngsters.
There are both unreserved and reserved picnic areas (Leisure Pass and fee required for reserved areas; call 516-571-8692).

Other Amenities:
The lake at Rev. Arthur MacKey Park provides a beautiful setting for a stroll, a jog or some quiet time relaxing on one of the numerous benches that line the walkway.

Directions:
To reach Arthur MacKey Park, take Southern State Parkway East to Exit 23/Meadowbrook Road (not Meadowbrook Parkway) South. Take Meadowbrook Road to Washington Avenue. Make a right onto Washington and take over the Parkway to Lakeside Drive (across from C.P center). Make a right onto Lakeside and go to the park entrance on the right.

Wantagh Park
Wantagh, Kings Road and Canal Place; located in the Southeast part of Nassau County
Phone: 516-571-7460
On Site Staff: Yes
A long, narrow 111-acre park bordered on the south by Flat Creek with East Bay beyond, Wantagh has a wide range of attractions, from a swimming complex to ball fields and tennis courts to a boating marina and launch ramp. Wantagh Park, located in southeastern Nassau County, has been part of the county park system since 1961. Consisting of 111 acres, the park provides a waterfront location and numerous opportunities for recreation, along with seating areas that allow visitors to relax and enjoy the magnificent view.

Athletics:
There are five tennis courts that are lighted in season (Leisure Pass and fee required);
and one basketball court.
Athletic fields include three softball fields and one baseball field, two of which are lighted (permits required).
There are 1-mile and 2-mile walking paths that can also be used for bicycle riding and jogging.

Family/Kids:
A playground located at the north end of the park has apparatus appropriate for toddlers through teens.
There are eight reserved (fee) picnic areas, which include barbecue equipment, and one sheltered area (permit required). There is also a section available for small non-reserved picnic groups.

Swimming:
A swimming complex (fee required) includes an Olympic-sized main pool, a diving pool, a �kiddie� pool, training pool, an interactive water-play area and two waterslides (30 foot).
The pool complex includes various conveniences, including lockers, showers, a concession stand, and lounge and deck chairs.

Fishing/Boating:
Launch ramp permits are available seasonally or daily (fee required; permit obtainable at the Park Administration Office).
A fishing pier just beyond the marina is open year-round, weather permitting.
Marine boat slips are also available.

Pets:
An enclosed dog run is located near the maintenance building. Owners are responsible for clean-up and must leash their dogs from the car to the run.

Other Amenities:
Bocci and horseshoe courts are available, along with a game area for chess and checkers and a senior citizen gazebo.

Directions:
Take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 27 South (Wantagh Parkway). Exit off the Wantagh Parkway at Sunrise Highway East. Make a right onto Wantagh Avenue. Take to the end and make right onto Merrick Road. At first light make a left into park.