Six North Fork playgrounds to get you through the long weekend and beyond
The playground at Veteran’s Memorial Park
No matter what or how much play equipment you have in your own backyard, it always seems that kids are more eager to play for hours when they’re out of their own space. Luckily for us, the North Fork is dotted with great playgrounds. Here are our top six. See you on the slides!
Veteran’s Memorial Park
1280 Peconic Bay Blvd., Mattituck
Why we love it here:
The play structures are large and well-suited for kids of all ages. The larger of the two structures features two slides, multiple climbing features, tunnels, and more. The entire playground is fenced in with a covered gazebo at its center making it the perfect perch for parents and caregivers. There are also plenty of swings.
The fine print:
This beach and playground are part of the Mattituck Park District meaning that in season (MDW-LDW) you’ll need to have a Mattituck Park District beach permit. These are available to residents, non-residents, and guests all for a fee. See here for more info and to purchase.
Orient Beach State Park
40000 Main Rd., Orient
Why we love it here:
This New York State Park is a gem with diverse landscapes, natural forests, hiking trails, 45,000 square feet of waterfront footage along Gardiner’s Bay, and multiple great play structures for kids of all ages. There, you’ll also find bathroom facilities and an awesome snack bar called Sunshine Shack by Little Creek Oysters serving up exquisite yet not fussy local fare. Spend all day easily at this playground and surrounding park.
The fine print:
Open MDW-LDW from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Cost is $10/car to park during peak season. More details here.
Tasker Park
Peconic Ln., Peconic
Why we love it here:
From various swings to musical play equipment to obstacle courses — this playground has it all plus it’s fully fenced-in and features a nearby bathroom facility.
The fine print:
Regardless of town residency, all are welcome at this Town of Southold park and playground, open from dawn until dusk.
The playground at Iron Pier Beach
Iron Pier Beach
End of Pier Ave., Jamesport
Why we love it here:
Three Long Island Sound-facing racing slides are what land this playground on our list. This playground is best geared toward older children with tons of challenging fun features.
The fine print:
This beach and playground are part of the Town of Riverhead beaches. Unfortunately, you’ll need to be a resident to visit this playground and obtain a parking permit which allows access from February through December. However, you may want to note that parking attendants are on-site from 11 a.m. through 6 p.m. and staffed on weekends only from Memorial Day until June 24, following that, staffing is present daily. Riverhead Town Police Department patrols parking throughout the year.
Miamogue Point Park
9 Front St., Riverhead
Why we love it here:
This tiny playground is the perfect spot for your most petite in tow. The fully fenced-in play structure offers a faux climbing rock, a pair of slides, and just a few other features making it easy to navigate for even the youngest playground lovers. There is also a set of swings just outside the play structure gate. Take a walk down the path to discover sandy Miamagoue Point Beach set on Peconic Bay.
The fine print:
Regardless of town residency, all are welcome at this Riverhead Town park and playground, open from dawn until dusk. There is a substantial parking lot on site, however no bathrooms.
The playground at South Jamesport Beach
South Jamesport Beach
End of Town Beach Dr., South Jamesport
Why we love it here:
Not only a great beach but a great playground, too. Younger and older kids can enjoy play structures and swings that overlook the Peconic Bay. There are also gazebos and picnic tables throughout this town beach.
The fine print:
This beach and playground are part of the Town of Riverhead beaches. Unfortunately, you’ll need to be a resident to visit this playground and obtain a parking permit which allows access from February through December. However, you may want to note that parking attendants are on-site from 11 a.m. through 6 p.m. and staffed on weekends only from Memorial Day until June 24, following that, staffing is present daily. Riverhead Town Police Department patrols parking throughout the year.