Dogs at Sunken Meadow
No, pets are not allowed in the main part of Sunken Meadow State Park, year round: not on the beach, the boardwalk, the picnic fields or the main trails. NYS Parks makes one exception. Leashed dogs may use the back trails and undeveloped areas at the east end of the park, reached only by Old Dock Road, and the area east of the Sunken Meadow Parkway and south of Route 25A, reached only from 25A. You cannot walk a dog in through any park entrance.
Dog Rules at a Glance
The Rule
The official park page's "Know Before You Go" list starts with "No Pets Permitted Year-Round." NYS Parks' Long Island dog-walking guide says the same thing for Sunken Meadow, "No pets or dogs permitted within the park", then names the places where dogs are allowed.
Where You Can Walk a Dog
According to NYS Parks, dogs are permitted only:
- On the back trails and undeveloped areas at the east end of the park, reached only by Old Dock Road.
- In the area east of the Sunken Meadow Parkway and south of Route 25A, reached only from Route 25A.
There is no access to either area through the park entrances, so do not drive in through the main gate with a dog. The park's trail map marks a designated dog area in its legend; the guide above is how NYS Parks describes it in words.
Leash and Behaviour Rules
State park rules (9 NYCRR 415.2, quoted by NYS Parks) allow dogs only on a leash no longer than six feet, and never in buildings, camping, bathing or picnic areas, or on improved walks or boardwalks. The Long Island guide adds:
- Keep your dog under control at all times.
- Pick up and properly dispose of waste.
- Do not let your dog chase birds, squirrels or other animals. Sunken Meadow's beach has nesting piping plovers and terns.
- Follow posted signs, fences and staff directions.
Ticks
The east-end trails are woods and grass, prime tick country. NYS Parks warns about black-legged (deer) ticks in wooded areas with deer, lone star ticks in tall grass and on dunes, and American dog ticks in grass, shrubs and overgrown fields. Check your dog's coat and paws after every walk, and carry water in warm weather.
Service Animals
Service animals are not pets. If you are visiting with one, call the park office at (631) 269-4333 for current guidance.
Dog-Friendly Places Nearby
- Avalon Nature Preserve, Stony Brook: about 5 miles of trails, free, and dogs welcome on a leash with waste picked up. See Avalon Nature Preserve.
- Not Caleb Smith: pets are among the activities NYS Parks prohibits at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve.
Why the Rule Exists
State rules keep dogs out of bathing areas, picnic areas, buildings and boardwalks, and those make up much of Sunken Meadow's busy north side. If you are unsure where a trail crosses into the no-pets area, ask park staff or call (631) 269-4333.
Dogs at Sunken Meadow FAQ
Are dogs allowed at Sunken Meadow State Park?
Not in the main park. NYS Parks allows leashed dogs only on the east-end back trails, reached by Old Dock Road, and in the area east of the parkway and south of Route 25A, reached from 25A.
Can dogs go on Sunken Meadow beach?
No. Pets are not permitted on the beach, and state rules bar dogs from bathing areas.
Are dogs allowed on the Sunken Meadow boardwalk?
No. State rules keep dogs off boardwalks and improved walks in state parks.
How long can a dog leash be in a New York state park?
Six feet or shorter, under 9 NYCRR 415.2.
Where can I walk my dog near Sunken Meadow?
The Sunken Meadow east-end trails from Old Dock Road, or Avalon Nature Preserve in Stony Brook, where leashed dogs are welcome.