Coffin Woods

Coffin Woods is a beautiful 73-acre woodland preserve managed by the North Shore Wildlife Sanctuary, featuring mature oak, beech, and tulip trees. This nature preserve offers families a chance to explore a pristine natural environment with a wet area and small pond, where diverse wildlife including box turtles, milk snakes, and wood thrushes can be spotted. It's a wonderful destination for families who enjoy peaceful walks through nature and learning about native plants and wildlife. The preserve is particularly special during early spring when hundreds of red trillium blooms brighten the forest floor, alongside native yellow trout lilies and larger lavender European trout lilies. Families will also discover wood anemones and a rare healthy stand of Strawberry Bush, making spring visits especially rewarding for nature-loving kids. The wet area features red maples, skunk cabbage, and cinnamon fern, creating diverse habitats to explore. Coffin Woods welcomes leashed dogs, making it a great option for families with pets. The preserve is open sunrise to sundown, 7 days a week, with free access. However, families should note the important rules: no bicycles or wheeled vehicles are allowed on trails, and picnicking is not permitted. A downloadable plant list is available for visitors interested in identifying the flora they encounter. The preserve is located in Locust Valley on Oyster Bay Road, adjacent to the LIRR railroad overpass, with convenient parking available. This accessible location makes it easy for North Shore families to enjoy a nature-based outing without traveling far. For families interested in getting more involved, the North Shore Wildlife Sanctuary offers volunteer opportunities and accepts donations to support conservation efforts.