
Best Backpacking Destinations in Brookhaven, New York, United States
1. Caleb Smith State Park Preserve
A picturesque backpacking destination with hiking trails, campgrounds, and a historic mansion.
- Camping Availability: Offers campsites for tents and trailers
- Historical Significance: Boasts a historic mansion, the Caleb Smith House
- Trail Variety: Features hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties
2. Stony Brook-Pine Barrens Trail
An expansive trail system traversing the Pine Barrens, perfect for multi-day backpacking trips.
- Length and Duration: Spans over 40 miles and can be completed in multiple days
- Natural Beauty: Showcases the unique flora and fauna of the Long Island Pine Barrens
- Solitude: Offers a secluded experience away from crowded areas
3. Mount Sinipe
A challenging hike leading to breathtaking panoramic views of Brookhaven.
- Difficulty Level: Features a steep and challenging ascent
- Scenic Views: Rewards hikers with stunning vistas of Brookhaven
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife observation, such as deer and turkeys
4. Cedar Beach County Park
A coastal backpacking destination offering camping, hiking, and beach access.
- Coastal Scenery: Offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean
- Camping on the Beach: Features campsites right on the beach
- Water Activities: Provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking
5. Robert Moses State Park
A popular backpacking destination with campgrounds, beaches, and nature trails.
- Beach Access: Provides easy access to beautiful beaches
- Camping Variety: Offers both tent and RV campsites
- Nature Trails: Features hiking trails through diverse landscapes
6. Fly Creek Park & Preserve
A peaceful backpacking destination with woodland trails, wetlands, and a historic mill.
- Historical Attractions: Includes the restored Fly Creek Mill
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting
- Trail Length: Offers trails of varying lengths for backpacking trips
7. Conscience Point Wildlife Refuge
A tranquil refuge offering birdwatching, hiking, and opportunities to spot seals.
- Wildlife Spotting: Features a variety of birds and occasional seal sightings
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a serene and quiet environment for relaxation
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational resources about local wildlife and ecosystems
8. Tuthill Vineyards
A unique backpacking destination with vineyard tours, wine tastings, and camping.
- Wine Tasting Experience: Offers wine tastings and vineyard tours
- Camping with a View: Features campsites overlooking the vineyards
- Relaxation and Leisure: Provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and leisure activities
9. Long Island Greenbelt Trail
A long-distance trail system passing through Brookhaven's scenic landscapes.
- Length and Duration: Spans over 35 miles and can be completed in multiple days
- Natural Beauty: Showcases the natural beauty of Brookhaven's diverse landscapes
- Solitude: Offers a secluded experience away from crowded areas
10. Sunken Meadow State Park
A coastal park offering camping, beaches, and hiking trails.
- Beach Access: Provides easy access to beautiful beaches
- Camping Variety: Offers both tent and RV campsites
- Nature Trails: Features hiking trails through diverse landscapes
11. Setauket-East Setauket Historic District
A historic backpacking destination with charming villages and rich history.
- Historical Significance: Includes numerous historical buildings and sites
- Village Charm: Features picturesque villages with unique shops and restaurants
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational resources about local history and culture
12. Woods Copse County Park
A woodland retreat offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping.
- Camping Availability: Offers campsites for tents and trailers
- Trail Length: Features hiking trails of varying lengths
- Scenic Beauty: Showcases the natural beauty of Brookhaven's woodlands
13. Woodside County Park
A peaceful retreat with hiking trails, a lake, and picnic areas.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the lake
- Trail Length: Features hiking trails of varying lengths
- Relaxation and Leisure: Provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and leisure activities
14. Mount Usan
A challenging hike leading to panoramic views of Brookhaven's coastline.
- Difficulty Level: Features a steep and challenging ascent
- Scenic Views: Rewards hikers with stunning vistas of Brookhaven's coastline
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife observation, such as deer and turkeys
15. Gold Star Battleship New Jersey
A unique backpacking destination offering tours of a historic battleship.
- Historical Significance: Offers tours of the iconic USS New Jersey battleship
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational resources about naval history and operations
- Landmark Experience: Offers a one-of-a-kind experience exploring a historic battleship