Dog-friendly parks to visit this fall

Living on Long Island, finding dog-friendly parks can be a bit of a struggle. With the cooler weather coming in, it will soon be peak time to head out on walks with your furry friends. Use this list to pick some great dog-friendly parks in the area.

Gardiner County Park

Montauk Highway, Bay Shore

This beautiful park lies right on the Great South Bay and features some nice winding trails straight to the water, or a direct path that will get you there quicker. (The beach area is great for puppy photo ops!) Dogs are aplenty at this park, as they can walk around leashed on the trails and there is also an enclosed ‘dog park’ area.

The park has restrooms and also boasts a workout trail that individuals can follow using the signs and provided equipment.

Fire Island Lighthouse

Dogs are allowed on the bayside of the lighthouse grounds if they are leashed and cleaned up after. Although they are not allowed on the oceanside, the lighthouse grounds are a great place to meander with your furry friend. It is especially beautiful in the fall when the sun isn’t scorching hot and there is a nice breeze.

Gilbert Park

8 South Windsor Avenue, Brightwaters

This beautiful park on the Great South Bay is the perfect place to take Fido for a sunset stroll. A plethora of pups can be seen frolicking at Gilbert Park in the early morning before their owners head to work.

Heckscher State Park

1 Heckscher State Parkway, East Islip

Before bringing your furry friend to Heckscher, make sure you know the rules, as there are quite a few. Dogs are not permitted on bike paths, beaches, playgrounds, picnic areas, campgrounds and buildings. Dogs are only permitted on nature trails located in the undeveloped areas of the park. During the off-season (September-May) park in Field 5, while in the peak season (Memorial Day-Labor Day) park in Field 4. The trail is accessible in the western section of the Field 5 parking lot.