Hither Hills State Park

Primarily enjoyed for its beachfront views, Hither Hills State Park boasts a 189-site campground that rests directly on the ocean shore. These sites all contain firepits, freshwater spouts, and newly installed "sand splitters" that make finding your piece of the beach a little bit easier amidst the chaos. Dogs are welcome on the campgrounds, provided they are properly leashed at all times. Owners are required to only use the designated "doggie doo" stations located at both the northern and southern ends of the park if their pet needs relief.

This park is directly connected to the locally-renowned Napeague Harbor, famous for its "walking dunes," a novel and otherwise unseen sand formation that you can really only find here. While no paved paths exist, there are bridle paths available for both you and your canine provided they're on a 6-foot leash or shorter. 

Being so close to the shore, Hither Hills State Park tends to play host to a wide array of water activities throughout the summer months as well. While no harbor exists, this is a very popular spot for both swimming and canoeing. There are designated swimming spots throughout the year staffed by lifeguards and more information on which can be found at the New York Parks official website.

Over the past 30 years, several rare species have been cultivated in the woodlands that surround this park. Because of this, birdwatching has become quite the popular past time here. So, if you are interested in that, make sure to bring a pair of binoculars and enjoy the sights!

While the summer months tend not to be as dog friendly, it's the off-season in which this park's canine tendencies really begin to shine. The beach is completely available to dogs the moment camping season ends. What's more, dogs are then allowed on the beach off-leash, which means they can frolic in the water to their heart's content. All undeveloped areas of this park are available to dog romps during the off-season, so make sure to get the most of this rare chance to let your dog roam a state park leash-free.