Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve

Edgewood Oak Brush Plains State Forest is an 813-acre nature preserve located across the towns of Babylon, Huntington, and Islip in Suffolk County. Originally developed as part of a psychiatric hospital facility in the 1930s, this unique property has been transformed into a remarkable outdoor recreation area managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The preserve features over 23.5 miles of trails and roads, making it an excellent destination for families seeking outdoor exploration and natural beauty. What makes Edgewood truly special is its rare pitch pine-scrub oak barrens habitat—a globally uncommon ecosystem found in only three locations on Long Island and six in the entire state. Families will experience a landscape characterized by dense shrub thickets, bigtooth aspen stands, and grasslands that have naturally reclaimed formerly developed areas. The preserve is open year-round and completely free to visit, making it an accessible option for families on any budget. The hiking experience is perfect for families, with the easy 2.7-mile blue-blazed loop trail offering a gentle introduction to the forest. More adventurous families can explore the approximately 12.3 miles of bike-specific trails maintained by volunteer stewards, featuring beginner, intermediate, and advanced routes marked with color-coded systems. Visitors should note that a free 3-year Managed Land Access Permit is required and can be obtained through the DEC's nForm page.

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