Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Rockefeller State Park Preserve started its existence as the property of the John D. Rockefeller family, as well as William Rockefeller himself. Beginning in 1983, the Rockefeller family has donated over 1400 acres of land to New York state, to keep the area protected from development so that future generations can enjoy them they way they were meant to be seen.
Nowadays the Rockefeller State Park Preserve overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, who keeps it open all year. These trails were initially built as carriage roads that John D. Rockefeller Sr. first put down in the 1920s. They were designed to follow the natural flow of the forest scenery, instead of being intrusive.
The 45 total miles of crushed gravel trails are wide enough for two car lengths, which means guests will have plenty of room. The network takes you past several of the natural landmarks and historical features contained within Rockefeller State Park Preserve.
If you follow the Swan Lake Trail, you'll find the lake of the same name, which features several preserved wooden and stone bridges, as well as stone walls that remain from the Colonial period. Make sure to grab a map of the trails at the Carriage Office before setting off so that you don't get lost.
Canines are free to accompany guests on these trails as long as they stay on a leash throughout their stay, and owners clean up any messes they drop on the ground. Rockefeller State Park Preserve also features the Gallery, which provides rotating art exhibits and contemporary installations for guests to admire. These areas and located just outside of the entrance courtyard, and shouldn't be missed.
Sorry pet owners, but dogs are barred from entering any indoor structures on park grounds. If you're getting out for a walk in Rockefeller State Park Preserve, make sure to bring your binoculars as these areas are nationally renowned for a record 202 distinct plant and animal species. You're almost sure to see something new each time you venture out onto park grounds.
