Minnewaska State Park Preserve accepts the Empire Pass, too. It is a small gravel beach, so I recommend wearing water sandals or swimming shoes. The beach is shaded around the sides and has a straight dock from the shore that’s fun to jump off, plus plenty of hiking available around the lake.
I just learned that beautiful Belleayre Beach – that spot you keep passing on your way up to ski at Belleayre Mountain – is not taking the Empire Pass this summer. Bummer! Admission is $10 per carload, but free for seniors 70 and up midweek; or patrons can purchase Belleayre Beach passes for the summer. Belleayre Beach is a sandy beach, smaller than Lake Taghkanic, so beautiful, and our son loves jumping off the floating dock in the deeper area.
Lake Taghkanic State Park is located at 1528 Route 82 in Ancram. For more information, call (518) 851-3631. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is located at 5281 Route 44/55 in Kerhonkson. For more information, call (845) 255-0752. Lake Taghkanic and Minnewaska can also be visited online at https://nysparks.com. Belleayre Beach is located on Route 28 in Pine Hill, about 35 minutes from the Kingston traffic circle. For more information, call (845) 254-5202 or visit www.belleayre.com/summer/lake.htm.
Red Wing Park
“Our family spent the hot days of summers at Red Wing Park in East Fishkill, and now I take my grandchildren! My children loved it, and so do my grandchildren. A great place for families!” recommends Arleen Johnson of East Fishkill. This park is a new one to me, and I can’t wait to check it out. Admission is by passes or day fees for the 17-acre facility.
Red Wing Park is located at 11 Old Farm Road off Route 82 in East Fishkill. For more information, call (845) 221-9191 or visit www.eastfishkillny.org.
