One Day, Three Parks
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Come join us for a fun-filled family day and enjoy our parks!
The Bayard Cutting Arboretum Horticultural Society, Friends of Connetquot River State Park Preserve, and Friends of Heckscher State Park invite families, friends, and park lovers to the 2nd Annual One Day, 3 Parks event on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
NO COST FAMILY FUN! Bring your Empire Pass.
Just a few miles apart, Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Connetquot River State Park Preserve, and Heckscher State Park form a unique cluster of more than 5,700 acres of state parkland, offering an incredible variety of history, nature, recreation and family activities. For one day, Saturday, October 4, 2025, visitors are encouraged to experience all three parks, each offering special programs hosted by Friends group volunteers.
Snacks and Giveaways and even a Raffle or two!
Bayard Cutting Arboretum:
- 9:15 AM: Manor House Guided Tour
- 9:45 AM: Scarecrow to Farm Guided Tour
- Anytime: Scavenger Hunt
- Anytime: Bird Coloring Tables & Nature Activities
Connetquot River State Park Preserve:
- 11:45 AM: Docent led Grounds and House Tour
- 1:00 PM: Montaukett Dancer Performance
- Anytime: Parkview Equestrian Center, Accessibility Birding Programs, Canoe and Fly Fishing Demonstration
Heckscher State Park:
- 2:15 PM: Live Music
- 2:30 PM: Guided Nature Walk
- Anytime: Children’s Activities
- Anytime: Exploration Hunt
- Anytime: Petting Zoo
Explore All Three
From the historic landscape and riverfront beauty of Bayard Cutting Arboretum to the woodlands, trails and waterways of Connetquot River State Park Preserve, to the expansive recreational opportunities of Heckscher State Park, each destination offers something different to discover. Come for one activity or make a full day of it. Bring your family and friends, explore the parks, discover something new and have fun along the way.
