This park, located in western Suffolk County, in the Islip area, is very large. To go and walk the trails that loop around the park for some 10 miles, took most of the day and alot to drink (and I was still thirsty!).
No wonder many people choose to explore it on horseback.
The northern part of the trail, off Vets highway (rt.454) takes out through mostly old growth woods where tall oaks and pines dominate. Bunces bridge and near the hatchery are some real great places for flyfishing, as well as viewing birds. The eastern part of the park, especially around Cordwood Road, is drier woods, definately piney. Unfortunately the pine flies are coming out, and there were alot more flies coming out of the sand on the trails. They are out early this year, but I guess because it's been a mild winter. Managed not to get bitten, though they buzzed me at least a couple of times.
Here's some photos, more in my gallery here http://forums.njpinebarrens.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=417
No wonder many people choose to explore it on horseback.The northern part of the trail, off Vets highway (rt.454) takes out through mostly old growth woods where tall oaks and pines dominate. Bunces bridge and near the hatchery are some real great places for flyfishing, as well as viewing birds. The eastern part of the park, especially around Cordwood Road, is drier woods, definately piney. Unfortunately the pine flies are coming out, and there were alot more flies coming out of the sand on the trails. They are out early this year, but I guess because it's been a mild winter. Managed not to get bitten, though they buzzed me at least a couple of times.
Here's some photos, more in my gallery here http://forums.njpinebarrens.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=417
