Blydenburgh County Park is a 627 acre dog friendly county park in Suffolk County consists of approximately 6 miles of loop trails around Stump Pond. The main (southern) entrance to the park is on the north side of Veterans Memorial Highway while the Northern entrance can be reached by following Route 347 to Brooksite Drive North; turn left on New Mill Road and follow to park entrance at end.
Around 1800 the Blydenburgh family dammed three streams at the headwaters of the Nisseqougue River creating “Stump Pond”. Stump Pond is the second largest lake on Long Island and the least developed. The Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District at the northern end of the park consists of a gristmill and other historic structures.
Fishing for pumpkinseed sunfish, large-mouth bass, perch and bluegill is allowed with a permit from sunrise to sunset. Bridle paths are available throughout the park along with a practice ring off the New Mill Road entrance. Rowboat rentals are available mid-May through Labor Day near the southern entrance. Trailer parking is available in the northern entrance.
The trail along the east side of the pond is relatively flat while the west side contains more hills and varied terrain. On the west side of Stump Pond there will be many ups and downs, offering great views of the pond. A 3/4 mile winding boardwalk meanders through wetlands. If you are not up for the entire loop around Stump Pond you can ease into by doing sections of the trail first. Be sure you are prepared with water bottle and snacks.
The Long Island Greenbelt trail runs along part of the northern end of Stump Pond with regularly scheduled organized hikes. The Greenbelt office can be contacted for a schedule: (631)360-0753.
