Rules & Regulations

The main rules at Sunken Meadow State Park are simple: the park is open sunrise to sunset and closes at sunset, no pets are allowed in the main park, drones are not permitted, and generators, PA and DJ systems and any amplified sound are banned. Boats launch only from Field 3, and inflatables are not allowed. Night fishing, stargazing, metal detecting, horseback riding and groups of more than 50 all need a NYS Parks permit.

Know Before You Go

NYS Parks' own list for Sunken Meadow:

• No pets permitted, year round.
• Picnic areas with grills are in Parking Fields 2 and 4.
• Kayak launches are on the east side of Field 3. No inflatable vessels.
• No generators, PA systems, DJ systems or amplified sound systems.
• The park closes at sunset.

Pets

Dogs are allowed only on the east-end back trails reached from Old Dock Road and in the area south of Route 25A east of the parkway, on a leash of six feet or less. State rules (9 NYCRR 415.2) keep dogs out of buildings, bathing and picnic areas, and off improved walks and boardwalks. Full details: dogs.

Drones and Model Aircraft

NYS Parks says flying drones is not permitted in the park. Construction in Field 2 also ended model-airplane permits at Sunken Meadow; the agency sends model flyers to Nissequogue River State Park instead.

Bikes

Bicycling around the park is allowed all year from sunrise to sunset. On the boardwalk, bikes are allowed all day outside May 2 to September 20; in that window, weekdays 6 to 9 a.m. only and never on weekends or holidays. See the boardwalk.

Activities That Need a Permit

• Night sport fishing: $35 NY licence, $60 out of state, $25 for seven nights. Online only.
• 4-wheel-drive beach fishing vehicle: $80 NY, $125 out of state.
• Stargazing: $35 NY, $60 out of state. Online only.
• Metal detecting: $40 a year. Online only.
• Horseback riding: permit, bridle trail in Field 5 only. Not in the picnic area or on the cross-country trails.
• Cross-country programs for schools and groups: permit and insurance, Regional Permit Office (631) 669-1000.
• Orienteering: permit, same office.
• Organized groups and picnic groups over 50: permit.
• Golf outings: ask the clubhouse supervisor.

Swimming and the Water

Swim only at the Main Beach (Field 1) or the East Beach (Field 3) during lifeguard hours. Launch kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and windsurfers only from Field 3, sunrise to sunset. See the beach and kayaking.

Winter

Cross-country skiing is allowed when conditions permit, but not on the golf courses. There are no rentals. Sledding is not permitted anywhere in the park.

Golf Course Rules

Children 15 and under must be with an adult. You must be 18 or older to rent an electric cart. Golfers should arrive an hour before their tee time. See golf.

Safety and Emergencies

Report any accident or incident to State Park Police right away at (631) 321-3700, or call 911 in an emergency. The park office is (631) 269-4333 and the Long Island Regional Office is (631) 669-1000. Trails on the map are approximate, and conditions change.