Avalon Nature Preserve — Attraction in Town of Smithtown

Avalon Park & Preserve is magical! I am visiting the area for 9/11, so stress levels are high. This was the perfect place to go in Stony Brook, New York to rejuvenate and be at one with nature. The thoughtfulness and design of the preserve made me feel so peaceful and happy.

Parking is easy and free, and entrance is also no charge, so it is accessible to everyone. The trails are well marked and maintained. There is signage warning of ticks, and we stayed on the main trails where we enjoyed almost 4 miles of hiking including a little extra going to the farm stand at Birdsfoot Farm that is owned by Avalon. The place feels safe as there are cameras and nowhere is so remote that you are completely on your own. There was at least one water fountain there, and it included a bowl for pets. We saw several sweet dogs along the trail, as well as kind humans including some friendly park people who do such a beautiful job making sure the park is safe and well-maintained. It was not at all crowded, and the park is spacious. We also saw a beautiful young deer who seemed to know that we meant no harm, so she just stood there and looked at us as we looked at her. It was a very special moment!

Some of my favorite elements of the park were the Cartas al Cielo sphere and the Labyrinth. At the Cartas al Cielo, there are postcards where you can write something to those who have passed. The sign says, "Visitors are encouraged to send messages beyond our earthly realm, mailing them through this poetic vessel." At the Labyrinth, there is a beautiful tribute to Paul Simons, dedicating the park and preserve to his memory, and a spectacular sculpture by Jod Laurie.

Every part of the preserve was wonderful. There is a duck pond and a frog pond near the entrance, a hilltop meadow at the top, and lots of cool things in between. There are no restrooms at the preserve, no picnic areas, and no trash cans. Everything is carry in and carry out. Their motto is Protect, Restore, Inspire...and that is absolutely perfect! I highly recommend this...

Beautiful location near Stony Brook Village and Pond but currently the front section is closed due to construction (this review is as of Oct 6, 2020). The second more primitive section is open but you must drive to remote parking lots in back or walk from Pond if you don't know where they are.

This area is area is easy and doable by all ages. Not sure if wheelchairs without pneumatic wheels would not get stuck. The front section is only section with a portion that has a wooden walkway (closed for construction now).

Parking, and entry, are completely free. The area was a result of a generous donation but ongoing contributions by the public help keep it clean, maintained, and pay for construction for walkways, safety and erosion prevention.

Parking in remote lots is better than trying to vie for one near Stony Brook Pond although at the Pond you'll be able to view the Cormorant nests as well as interact with lots of ducks (Woods and Mandarin) and Canada Geese. Down the block is the shopping area of Stony Brook Village - some places to grab a bite, drink as well as shop after or before your walk in Avalon.

There is a working grist mill across from Avalon and the Pond. It is one of the oldest working grist mill in America. If you visit it while open (when operating) the attendant will answer questions and do a demonstration so you see how it worked hundreds of years ago.

There are a few interesting installations there but overall it is a great place to walk quietly, contemplate, and meditate. There are also a few people who jog there because the paths are flat, void of big rocks, and terrain is fairly level or forgiving.

Enjoy your...

Avalon park is the perfect place to take a date, your family, your friends and even your dog! This park is absolutely gorgeous and is kept in spectacular condition. There are two kind of separate places to walk around, the first area is located right next to the mill pond in the area and is normally more crowded. It has a well kept walkway and a bridge as well as stone steps that lead up to a small pond and an amazing labyrinth. I have visited this park so many times I cannot remember and every time I come to this park, I genuinely enjoy myself and the company I am with. I frequently take my dog with me as well, she loves to walk with me here and meet other dogs. Now, the second area of Avalon is more like a nature walk through fields. The path leads you through trails in the woods then into open fields that is surrounded by beautiful wild flowers. The newest site to this park is the huge mirror ball that is actually a pathway to the heavens. You can send letters to the heavens by writing them on a postcard, which is actually provided, and inserting these postcards into the huge ball. I think this idea is beautiful and poetic and was a great add to the paradise that Avalon park is. Overall, I highly recommend visiting this park with anyone that you want to share a magnificent experience, or perhaps even travel by yourself to escape from the...