Rockland Lake (from May 1 to September 30)

Ruffly 30 miles north of Manhattan, the Rockland Lake State Park is a puptastic spot to escape from the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in the outdoors with your canine buddy. Nestled on a ridge of Hook Mountain above the west bank of the Hudson River, this expansive site features a massive pool complex, two 18-hole golf courses, and the lake for which it is named. 

Make sure to plan your trip to Rockland Lake between October 1st and March 31st, as furry visitors are not allowed in the park from May through September. While leashed doggos are welcome in the park, they have to steer clear of all paved walkways, including the 3.2-mile bike path that encircles the entire lake. Furtunately, there are other routes that you and your pooch can explore, including the Nyack Beach/River Trail and Haverstraw River Trail. Both are located just outside the Rockland Lake State Park area on Landing Road, with the former running 1.6 miles south to the adjacent Nyack Beach State Park and the latter traveling 3.5 miles north into the woods.

For an easy hike, hit the Nyack Beach/River Trail, which is a mostly flat, stone dust path. If you and your pooch are up for a challenge, try taking on the hilly and rocky Haverstraw River Trail. Whichever route you take, you and Fido will be treated to pawsome views of the Hudson River and Palisades Cliffs. Just remember to keep your furry pal on a 6-foot leash and clean up after them at all times. Keep water and clean-up bags on hand. After your hike, you can rest your feet and paws at one of the many picnic tables scattered around the park. Barbecues are also available, so don't furget to pack food that you can throw on the grill. 

Experience the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley with Fido at the Rockland Lake State Park!