Bethpage State Park

Bethpage State Park is a premier destination for families on Long Island, best known for its five world-class golf courses, including the renowned Black Course that has hosted major championships like the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. Beyond golf, the park offers diverse recreational opportunities perfect for families, including picnic facilities, tennis courts, hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, playing fields, bridle paths for horseback riding, and cross-country skiing trails. The park provides excellent amenities for a full day of family fun. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas with grills and pavilions (available year-round with vehicle entry fee), tennis courts with both indoor and outdoor options, horseback riding rentals ($40/hour) through the adjacent Old Bethpage Equestrian Center, and a restaurant called The Heritage Club at Bethpage with varying seasonal hours. The park also offers sledding and snowshoeing during winter months (December 1 - March 31). Vehicle entry fees are $8 for cars and $35 for buses, with picnic area access available year-round. Hours vary seasonally: April 4 - May 22 and September 8 - November 1 are open 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM on weekends/holidays, while May 23 - September 7 operates daily 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM. An Empire Pass ($80) provides unlimited day-use entry to most New York State Parks. Tennis courts have extensive hours year-round, with indoor hard and clay courts available daily and outdoor courts operating April through October. Families should note that sledding requires steerable sleds only (inflatables not permitted), and it's recommended to call the park office at (516) 249-0701 before arrival. The park also offers special permits for metal detecting and model airplanes ($40 each). With its combination of athletic facilities, natural trails, seasonal activities, and dining options, Bethpage State Park provides something for every family member regardless of the season.

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