Who We Are - Friends of Heckscher State Park
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Nestled along the shores of the Great South Bay in East Islip, New York, Heckscher State Park has welcomed generations of visitors seeking recreation, relaxation, and a connection to nature. Known today as the "Home of the White-Tailed Deer," the park's story reflects Long Island's rich history, its changing landscape, and the vision of those committed to preserving open space for public enjoyment.
Photo courtesy of New York State Parks.
Heckscher State Park is named for August Heckscher, a philanthropist who believed that parks and open spaces should be available to everyone. Through his generosity, New York State was able to acquire the property and establish the park as a public resource. The park officially opened in 1929 and quickly became one of Long Island's premier outdoor destinations.
Photo courtesy of New York State Parks.
For nearly a century, Heckscher State Park has provided opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and community gathering. Families have enjoyed its beaches, picnic areas, athletic fields, trails, boating facilities, and scenic views of the Great South Bay. The park has also hosted notable public events, including outdoor summer concerts that attracted visitors from across the region.
Photo courtesy of New York State Parks.
Known as the "Home of the White-Tailed Deer," Heckscher State Park is home to diverse wildlife and natural habitats. Its woodlands, wetlands, and shoreline environments support hundreds of bird species and provide important ecological benefits to Long Island's South Shore. Protecting these natural resources remains an important part of the park's mission today.
Photo courtesy of New York State Parks.
Friends of Heckscher State Park is dedicated to supporting and enhancing this treasured public space through volunteerism, education, stewardship, and community engagement. Working together with New York State Parks, we help preserve the park's history, protect its natural resources, and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy all that Heckscher State Park has to offer.
Photo courtesy of New York State Parks.