The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Camp Hero State Park
4.6
(10)
81
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Camp Hero State Park traverse a diverse landscape featuring heavily wooded areas, tranquil maritime forests, and vital freshwater wetlands. The park is characterized by dramatic coastal bluffs offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, alongside a long stretch of beachfront. Hikers can explore remnants of its past as a military installation, including an abandoned radar tower and other structures. This varied terrain provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical interest for outdoor enthusiasts.
…Last updated: October 10, 2026
4.6
(5)
28
hikers
9.96km
02:36
70m
70m
If you're looking for a hike that blends natural beauty with a touch of history, the Paumanok Path: Montauk Point Loop delivers. This moderate 6.2-mile (10.0 km) route, with its…
3
hikers
5.99km
01:34
50m
50m
The Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue on Long Island's eastern tip. You'll wander through maritime forests and freshwater wetlands…
8
hikers
6.96km
01:48
40m
40m
The Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop offers a delightful easy hike, perfect for those seeking scenic beauty without strenuous effort. This 4.3-mile (7.0 km) route,…
8
hikers
6.84km
01:46
30m
30m
The Money Pond, Oyster Pond, and Seal Haul Out Trail Loop offers a delightful blend of scenery, transitioning from peaceful wooded areas and wetlands to the expansive Oyster Pond and…
2
hikers
3.20km
00:49
20m
20m
The Amsterdam Beach Preserve loop offers a delightful journey through diverse coastal landscapes, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll wander through coastal forests with impressive holly trees and wetlands, cross…
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Tips from the Community
There are, by the way, some beautiful places here in the north of Long Island. Large colonial-style villas, some with park-like gardens, are a sight to behold. The sophistication is reminiscent of places like Kampen on Sylt.
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Montauk, by the way, has a walk-through lighthouse, which houses a small but fine museum that, among other things, explains the history of the Native Americans who once lived on Long Island.
8
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Anyone visiting Long Island should definitely visit Montauk, as this end of the island is not only scenically very attractive - Pocahontas' life took place here, which is historically interesting. The "Hamptons" are also not far away. These places are beautiful: the picture-perfect east coast.
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The Old Montauk Highway leads to a trail through the woods with a gate that says closed to traffic. We took it and it’s fine. There’s a nice parking area with a cliff view at the end just before you get to the lighthouse, check it out.
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Camp Hero State Park covers 415 acres of wooded areas and a beachfront with a historic military installation. Hikers, runners, bikers, and horseback riders can explore the trail systems going through forests, freshwater wetlands, ocean vistas, and bluffs. Swimming is not allowed here.
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At 199 acres, Amsterdam Beach Preserve is a beautiful state park & beach in Montauk. The beach itself is quite rocky, so swimming isn't ideal, but the views offer plenty of enjoyment and natural beauty.
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At 136 acres and the second-largest pond in Montauk State Park, Oyster Pond is a unique land formation separated from the ocean by just a small strip of land.
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At the easternmost point of Long Island & New York's first lighthouse, Montauk Point Lighthouse built in 1796 was one of the first sights that immigrants saw when arriving in the USA by ship.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Camp Hero State Park?
Camp Hero State Park offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 15 routes to explore. Many of these are rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and skill levels.
What kind of terrain and scenery can we expect on these trails?
You'll find a diverse landscape, from heavily wooded areas and tranquil maritime forests to vital freshwater wetlands. A major highlight is the dramatic coastal bluffs offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Trails also lead past picturesque ponds and along stretches of beachfront.
Are there historical sites or interesting landmarks to see along the trails?
Yes, Camp Hero State Park is rich in history. You can explore remnants of its past as a WWII coastal defense station and Cold War-era radar base. Look out for the abandoned AN/FPS-35 radar tower, bunkers, and other military structures. Many routes also offer views of the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, and you can visit the Montauk Air Force Station.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many of the trails are designed as loops, perfect for a family outing. For example, the Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop is an easy 6 km option, or you could try the Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop, which is about 7 km.
What are some easy trail options for families with younger children?
For an easier walk, consider the Amsterdam Beach Preserve loop, which is just over 3 km and takes about 50 minutes. Another great choice is the Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop, an easy 6 km route.
Can we expect to see any wildlife during our hike?
Yes, the undisturbed environment of Camp Hero State Park fosters abundant wildlife. It's a great spot for birdwatching, and you might encounter various other animals in the maritime forests and wetlands.
Is there parking available at Camp Hero State Park?
Yes, Camp Hero State Park provides parking facilities for visitors. Specific parking areas are usually indicated on park maps or signage near trailheads.
What is the best time of year to visit Camp Hero State Park with family?
The park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant natural beauty. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter hiking can be beautiful, especially after a fresh snowfall, but be prepared for colder conditions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Camp Hero State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the unique historical elements, and the peaceful atmosphere of the diverse natural landscapes.
Are there trails that feature ponds or other water bodies?
Yes, several trails will lead you past picturesque ponds. The Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop is a prime example, guiding hikers through wooded areas and past these serene water features.
Are there any longer, moderately challenging family-friendly routes?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Paumanok Path: Montauk Point Loop is a moderate 10 km hike that offers expansive coastal views and takes around 2.5 hours to complete. Another moderate option is the Money Pond, Oyster Pond, and Seal Haul Out Trail Loop, which is about 6.8 km.
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