Bellone, Schneiderman and Hahn Announce Discover Suffolk County Parks Day

(Melville, NY-June 16, 2014)  Suffolk County Executive Steven Bellone signed new legislation declaring June 21, 2014 as “Discover Suffolk County Parks Day.”  This measure is an incentive designed to entice Suffolk County residents and visitors to discover the beautiful parks and recreational resources that Suffolk County Parks have to offer.

This resolution introduced by Legislators Jay Schneiderman and Kara Hahn will allow all visitors to pay the discounted green key card rate at all County Parks.  Generally at life-guard supervised beach parks, green key cardholders pay $8 while non-green key cardholders pay $15; and at inland parks green key cardholders pay $6 while non-green key cardholders pay $13. 

“Discover Suffolk County Parks Day offers residents an opportunity to explore parks they have never seen before or revisit those familiar from their childhood,” said Bellone.  “With the vast array of ecosystems, beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

The Suffolk County Parks System is truly one which all county residents can be proud of, as it provides us with quality leisure opportunities from Montauk to Huntington. The Suffolk County Parks Department manages over 46,000 acres of parkland, offering a multitude of leisure time pursuits. Suffolk County operates over 27 active parks and campsites with a variety of amenities at each site

Popular activities within the Suffolk County Parks System include golfing, camping, horseback riding, swimming, hiking, fishing, outer beach (shoreline) activities, boating, or visiting one of our historic sites such as the Big Duck, an all-time favorite.

“In these challenging economic times, many county residents are staying on Long Island instead of vacationing elsewhere during the summer months,” said Legislator Schneiderman.  “This discounted admission fee will allow visitors the opportunity to explore these opportunities close to home.” 

"Our parks are our peoples' places," said Kara Hahn, chair of the Legislature's Environment Committee and vice chair of its Parks committee. "Suffolk County's sense of place is inextricably tied to its almost fifty thousand acres of parkland including some of the world's finest beaches, hiking trails, rivers and bike paths where visitors and residents can recreate or relax; play or find peace. Come discover which of our park's jewels is your favorite."

While visiting the parks, residents are encouraged to inquire about the Suffolk County Parks Green Key card which would allow them to continue to receive discounted rates for parking and other activities year round.   Additional discounts are available for Seniors, Veterans, Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Personnel, and Active Military Personnel. 

Attached, find a listing of all Suffolk County Parks and the amenities they offer. 

Green Key fees:

For more Suffolk County news, photos and videos, visit www.facebook.com/SteveBellone.