Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine invites residents to participate in Suffolk County’s Spring 2025 Nature Walk Series. Residents may attend one or more of the Suffolk County’s “Exploring Health and Conservation” walks to explore the connection between health and our natural environment.
The Suffolk County Nature Walk Series is part of Suffolk County’s Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan to promote physical activity, increase access to public green spaces, and induce residents to improve their overall health.
Health professionals will speak about the importance of regular physical activity and environmental specialists will discuss the importance of preserving our environment and its relationship to the health of everyone in the community.
“We encourage all our residents and visitors to take care of their health by getting out, increasing their physical activity, and explore our beautiful open spaces here in Suffolk County,” said Executive Romaine.
“Walking in nature is a joy in itself, but the added bonus is that participants will have the opportunity to ask health questions, bird watch, and learn about the connection between our environment and our health,” said Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott.
The walks will take place on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon at the following times and locations. There will be no cost for the walks, entrance fees, or parking fees. Participants are advised to mention the walk at the entrance.
March 29, 2025: Lakeland County Park, 176 Johnson Ave., Islandia
Lakeland County Park is a 70 acre, fully accessible park facility was designed for the disabled and their families. It includes a nature trail-boardwalk over the head-waters of the Connetquot River, affording unique views of wetlands, vegetation, waterfowl and wildlife. Public restroom, leashed dogs allowed, picnic tables.
May 17, 2025: Belmont Lake State Park, 625 Belmont Ave., Southern State Parkway, Exit 38, North Babylon
Belmont Lake State Park is a 463-acre day-use park, featuring boating and picnicking facilities in addition to playing fields for popular sports. Two modern children’s playgrounds are also available. Pedestrian paths, bike paths, leashed dogs allowed.
May 31, 2025: Cordwood Landing County Park, Cedar Drive, Miller Place
Cordwood County Park is 70-acre park offering extensive hiking trails and access to the Long Island Sound for hikers, fishermen, sea combers and sunbathers. Leashed dogs allowed.
Date to be announced: Cranberry Bog Nature Preserve, 3675-2815 Lake Ave., Riverhead
Cranberry Bog Nature Preserve is a 165-acre preserve offers numerous hiking trails to view various plant life, birds species, reptiles and other local wildlife. Leashed dogs allowed.
To register, call the Suffolk County Department of Health Services at 631-854-0378 OR email [email protected]
To prepare for the Nature Walk:
- Wear light-colored clothing, long pants and sleeves.
- Consider using insect repellent.
- Bring water.
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF30 or higher, a brimmed hat and comfortable, supportive shoes (no flip flops).
While walking:
- Stay in the center of the path.
- Conduct frequent tick checks.
The Suffolk County Nature Walk Series is offered in collaboration with the Suffolk County Department of Health’s Office of Minority Health, Suffolk County Parks, New York State Parks, the Long Island Sound Study, Sea Grant, Alzheimer’s Association, SEPA Mujer, Dare to Dream Community Outreach, Belmont Lake Civic
