Hiking in Southaven County Park: trails, map and practical info

Description

Southaven County Park sits in the heart of Long Island, straddling the towns of Brookhaven and South Haven in central Suffolk County. One of the first parks opened to the public by Suffolk County back in the 1960s, it has grown into one of the region's most beloved green spaces — a genuine escape from the dense suburban sprawl that surrounds it. The Carmans River winds right through the park, giving the whole place a calm, almost remote feel that's hard to believe you're still on Long Island.

The Trail Experience

The trail network here covers around 13 kilometers, with a total elevation gain of just 10 meters — so yes, this is as flat as Long Island gets. That makes it an easy outing suitable for most fitness levels, including families with younger kids or anyone looking for a relaxed walk in the woods rather than a workout. Budget roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes to cover the full loop at a comfortable pace, though you can easily shorten or extend your time depending on how much you want to explore.

The terrain is mostly forested, with trails threading through mixed woodland typical of central Long Island. The Carmans River corridor adds a nice change of scenery — you'll get stretches where you're walking close to the water, which brings its own quiet atmosphere. The ground stays relatively level throughout, with soft dirt paths that are generally easy on the feet.

Getting There

The park is accessible off Victory Avenue (Suffolk County Route 56 / North Sunrise Service Road), located just west of William Floyd Parkway. Sunrise Highway (Route 27) runs along the southern edge of the park. It's worth noting that while both the Long Island Expressway and the Main Line of the Long Island Rail Road pass through the park's territory, neither provides direct access — you'll need to arrive by car via the road entrances.

The park's northern boundary extends toward East Main Street and Yaphank Avenue in the hamlet of Yaphank.

Points of Interest

Beyond the trails themselves, Southaven County Park holds some genuine historical and cultural interest worth knowing about before you go.

• Homan-Gerard House and Mills — A historic property located in the northern section of the park near Yaphank, offering a glimpse into Long Island's earlier history.
• Mary Louise Booth Girlhood Home — Also situated near Yaphank, this site commemorates the founder of Harper's Bazar magazine, who grew up in this area.
• The Carmans River — One of Long Island's cleanest and most scenic rivers runs directly through the park, making it a highlight of any visit.
• The 1992 UFO crash site — The park has gained a certain notoriety as the alleged site of a UFO incident in 1992, which has become part of local lore and draws its share of curious visitors.

What Makes It Worth the Drive

What sets Southaven apart from other Suffolk County parks is the combination of easy, accessible trails with a surprisingly rich natural and historical backdrop. The Carmans River alone is reason enough to visit — it's one of the few genuinely wild-feeling waterways left on Long Island, and walking alongside it on a quiet weekday feels a world away from the surrounding suburbs.

The park's size and layout also mean you're unlikely to feel crowded, even on weekends. The flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it a solid choice for a first hiking outing with kids, or for anyone who just wants a few hours of green space without committing to anything strenuous.

For a Long Island park that's been around since the 1960s, Southaven County Park has aged well — it remains one of the more rewarding places to spend a few hours outdoors in central Suffolk County.