ROCKEFELLER STATE PARK PRESERVE OVERVIEW
You might suspect, since I’ve devoted a website to it, that Rockefeller State Park Preserve is one of my favorite places. I’ve hiked hundreds of miles in the park and taken thousands of pictures of the birds, animals, and scenery I find during all four seasons. I know from seeing the “regulars” who walk and hike in the park that there are many people who feel the same way about this great park and preserve. I am providing an overview of the park so that those who may be interested in visiting the park can know a little history and an overview of the trails and scenery found there.
You can find the official park website here.
You can also find the Friends of the Park website here.
Location of Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Located in the eastern foothills of the Hudson River in the Westchester County town of Pleasantville, New York, Rockefeller State Park Preserve includes 1,771 acres of woodlands, fields, streams, lakes, and trails. The address of the park is:
125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville, NY 10570
GPS Coordinates for the Park:
Latitude 41.112919
Longitude -73.836517
This special place blends natural beauty, wildlife habitat, and American history. Originally part of the Rockefeller family estate, the park today offers a peaceful retreat for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and learning about conservation.
Black-Eyed Susans at Swan Lake
The Rockefeller Family and the Creation of the Park
The origins of Rockefeller State Park Preserve go back to the late 1800s, when John D. Rockefeller Sr. began buying land in Westchester County. His son, John D. Rockefeller Jr., expanded the estate, adding miles of carriage roads and carefully preserving the natural character of the land. Over time, the Rockefeller family acquired more than 3,000 acres in the area.
Starting in 1983, the family began donating portions of the estate to New York State. This donation continued over several years, eventually creating the public preserve we know today. The gift helped protect open space in a growing suburban area while honoring the family’s commitment to land conservation and public access.
Douglas Hill Loop Trail near Canter Alley
Carriage Roads: Design and Inspiration
One of the most distinctive features of the park is its 55-mile network of carriage roads. John D. Rockefeller Jr. designed these wide, crushed-stone paths for walking, horseback riding, and horse-drawn carriages. Built with careful attention to drainage and terrain, the roads wind through forests, meadows, streams, and around Swan Lake.
Rockefeller used similar techniques when building carriage roads in Acadia National Park in Maine. In both places, the roads follow the natural contours of the land and avoid steep grades or sharp turns. Stone culverts, rustic bridges, and scenic overlooks are used in both parks, showing the influence of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, whose principles guided much of the work.
One of the most photographed locations in the Park is the Stone Arch Bridge on the Potantico River Trail
What’s Still Here from the Rockefeller Era?
Many of the features built by the Rockefellers remain in the park today. The carriage roads, stone bridges, and scenic lookouts are still in use and maintained by New York State. You can also find gatehouses, stone walls, and barns from the original estate throughout the park.
In some areas, you’ll see structures like the Pocantico River bridge or historic fences that offer a glimpse into how the land was used and cared for a century ago. These elements connect visitors to the park’s past while supporting modern-day recreation.
A view of Swan Lake from the Overlook Trail
How Swan Lake Was Built
Swan Lake, one of the central features of the park, was constructed in the early 20th century by damming a stream that flowed through the estate. The 24-acre lake was designed as a scenic destination along the carriage roads and a peaceful location for quiet reflection and birdwatching.
Today, Swan Lake attracts photographers, birders, and walkers year-round. Its calm surface reflects the changing seasons, and the lake’s shores are home to snapping turtles, frogs, dragonflies, and many birds.
The Mario Cuomo Bridge and Manhattan are visible from the Rockwood Hall section of the park
Rockwood Hall: A Glimpse of Gilded Age Luxury
Rockwood Hall, once one of the grandest private homes in the United States, stood on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River. Originally owned by William Henry Aspinwall, the property was purchased in 1886 by John D. Rockefeller Sr. for his brother, William Rockefeller. The mansion featured 204 rooms and was surrounded by elaborate gardens and terraces.
Though the building was demolished in the 1940s, visitors can still walk through the estate grounds. Stone foundations, walls, and tree-lined paths remain, along with some of the best river views in the region. Rockwood Hall is now part of the park and offers a mix of history and scenic beauty.
One of the many white-tailed deer in the park
Wildlife in the Park
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is home to a wide variety of animals. White-tailed deer are commonly seen, along with red foxes, raccoons, chipmunks, squirrels, and turtles. Amphibians such as frogs and salamanders thrive near streams and wetlands.
Insects like dragonflies, butterflies, and bees are active in the meadows and gardens during warmer months. Because of the mix of habitats—forests, fields, water, and wetlands—the preserve supports a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
My favorite birds to photograph are Northern Cardinals, especially in winter
Birdwatching at a Designated Important Bird Area
The park is recognized as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, thanks to its rich birdlife. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the preserve, making it a popular destination for birders and photographers.
Some of the most commonly seen birds include:
– Northern Cardinals
– Eastern Bluebirds
– Red-tailed Hawks
– Great Blue Herons
– American Goldfinches
– Wood Thrushes
– White-throated Sparrows (especially in fall and winter)
During migration seasons, the preserve sees many warblers, flycatchers, and other seasonal visitors. The diversity of habitats—from quiet lakes to open meadows—makes the park attractive to both resident and migratory birds.
You can find the birds I’ve been able to photograph at the park here.
On the Stone Bridge near the Potantico River Trail
Popular Trails in the Preserve
With 55 miles of carriage roads, there’s a route for every interest and ability. Here are a few of the most popular trails:
Brothers’ Path Around Swan Lake
A flat, scenic walk around the lake, perfect for photography and wildlife viewing.
Old Sleepy Hollow Road Trail
A longer loop with forested sections and open meadow views, great for birdwatching.
Rockwood Hall Trail
Located at the western end of the park, this trail offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and visits the ruins of Rockwood Hall.
13 Bridges Trail
This trail follows Gory Brook and crosses 13 small stone bridges. It’s shady and quiet, ideal on hot days.
Overlook Trail
A short hike that leads to a panoramic overlook with views of the hills and woodlands.
One of the Stone Barns is adjacent to the Park
How Rockefeller State Park and Stone Barns Are Connected
The Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture, located just outside the preserve, occupies land that was once part of the Rockefeller estate. The Rockefellers built the barns in the 1930s to serve their family’s dairy operation. Today, the center is a nonprofit organization focused on sustainable farming and food systems.
Visitors can explore the farm, see animals, and learn about regenerative agriculture. The pastures used by Stone Barns extend into the preserve, and the two places share a commitment to conservation and public education. Stone Barns is also home to Blue Hill at Stone Barns, a well-known farm-to-table restaurant.
The Gallery and some of the Peonies at the park
Annual Events at the Park
The preserve hosts many events throughout the year that highlight its natural and cultural resources. Some popular events include:
– Spring Bird Walks (April–May): Guided walks during migration season
– Fall Foliage Hikes (October): Tours of the park’s most colorful trails
– Photography Workshops: Opportunities to improve skills with nature photography
– Art Exhibits at the Visitor Center: Rotating shows from local artists
– Educational Talks: Topics range from bird conservation to native plants
Events vary by season, and many are free or low-cost, making them accessible to families and casual visitors.
Japanese Peony Garden
Summary
Rockefeller State Park Preserve offers a unique blend of history, nature, and recreation. It began as private land owned by one of America’s most influential families and has become a public treasure. The carriage roads, scenic lakes, and historical sites provide visitors with beautiful settings for walking, riding, or simply relaxing outdoors.
With its wide variety of animals and birds, it’s a favorite spot for wildlife watchers and nature photographers. Its connection to the Stone Barns Center expands the park’s role in environmental education and sustainable farming. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a walk around Swan Lake, the park offers something new to discover in every season.
Links to More Rockefeller State Park Resources
Birds You Can Find in Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Rockefeller State Park Preserve FAQs
Best Birding Trails In Rockefeller State Park Preserve