Big Pine

For New Yorkers seeking a tranquil retreat into the embrace of nature, Big Pine in North Salem, NY, offers an exceptional opportunity to unwind by a beautiful lake within a well-tended park. Often praised by those who've experienced its serene charm, this spot is a hidden gem for locals looking to escape the bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the peaceful beauty of Westchester County's natural landscapes. If your ideal getaway involves quiet reflection, fishing, or simply enjoying the calming presence of a lake, Big Pine is a destination you'll want to keep to yourself – as one reviewer aptly put it, "Don't tell anyone!"

Big Pine, likely a designated camping or recreational area within a larger park system in North Salem, provides a fantastic setting for both relaxation and outdoor pursuits. Its appeal lies in its ability to offer a serene environment while still providing access to various activities. Whether you're an avid angler hoping for a good catch in the lake, a nature enthusiast seeking quiet moments, or even a responsible bow hunter looking for a suitable spot (as suggested by another review), Big Pine caters to a diverse range of outdoor interests.

While information on "Big Pine" as a standalone commercial campground in North Salem, NY, is not widely available, its description as an "awesome spot on beautiful lake in well tended park" strongly suggests it is part of a larger public recreational area, such as Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, which is known to offer camping and a lake in North Salem. This introduction aims to draw in local New Yorkers, highlighting the unique appeal of this serene lakeside spot. Let's explore the details that make this area a fantastic choice for your next outdoor adventure.

Big Pine is located in North Salem, NY 10560, USA. This places it within Westchester County, a region of New York well-known for its scenic parks, natural preserves, and charming rural communities. Given the customer review mentioning a "beautiful lake in well tended park," it is highly probable that "Big Pine" refers to a specific area or section within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, which is indeed located at 201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY 10560. This park features Hemlock Lake, canoe rentals, and camping facilities, aligning perfectly with the provided description.

The accessibility of Big Pine, assuming its location within Mountain Lakes Park, is excellent for New York residents. The park is easily reachable via well-maintained county roads, providing a straightforward drive from various parts of Westchester County, the greater New York City area, and surrounding regions. Paved roads typically lead directly to the main park entrances and parking areas, from which the camping areas and lake can be accessed. This ease of access ensures a smooth arrival, allowing visitors to quickly settle in and begin enjoying their time outdoors.

The park's setting offers a delightful balance between natural seclusion and convenient proximity to local amenities. North Salem, though rural, provides essential services such as gas stations, local stores, and eateries for any last-minute supplies or dining needs. This strategic location means New Yorkers can enjoy a true escape into nature without feeling completely cut off from necessary conveniences, making Big Pine an ideal and practical choice for a local getaway.

Assuming "Big Pine" refers to a camping area within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem, NY, the services offered would cater to a range of campers, with a focus on providing essential amenities in a natural setting. While not a full-service RV park, the facilities are designed for comfort and practicality:

• Lean-to Camping: The park offers year-round camping in open-face lean-tos. These shelters are suitable for sleeping up to eight people, with two specific sites accommodating up to 16 people. Each lean-to site includes an outside grill for cooking, a designated fire ring for campfires, and a picnic table.

• Yurt and Cabin Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, individual yurts and an entire yurt village, as well as a camp director's cabin, can be rented daily or weekly from Memorial Day through Columbus Day (excluding when Camp Morty is in session). Yurts can accommodate 10 people, providing sleeping quarters only. The director's cabin, suitable for four, offers more amenities, though linens, towels, toiletries, and food are not provided.

• Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available. While details on specific types (e.g., flush vs. vault) are not widely publicized for all areas, facilities in well-tended parks are generally clean and maintained.

• Canoe Rentals: Canoes are available for rent at Hemlock Lake on Saturdays and Sundays during the season, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This provides direct access to water recreation on the beautiful lake.

• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic areas are available throughout the park for day use, equipped with tables and often grills.

• Firewood Policy: The park permits the use of fallen wood found on the ground or firewood certified as heat-treated to prevent pest spread. Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings, with strict rules about extinguishing them.

• Reservations: Pre-registration is required for camping. Permits are issued at the park office to adults aged 21 and older. Camping for more than seven consecutive days is not permitted.

• High/Low Ropes Challenge Course: Available for organized groups, with reservations and an instructor required. This offers a unique team-building activity.

• Mess Hall: A newly renovated, spacious mess hall is available for large gatherings (up to 300 people), with a commercial kitchen accessible to licensed caterers or meal provision by the park.

Big Pine, as part of the well-regarded Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem, NY, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for New York locals:

• Beautiful Lake Setting: The central highlight is the "beautiful lake" (Hemlock Lake), which provides a serene backdrop for camping and various water-based activities. The "awesome spot" directly on the lake, as noted by a reviewer, truly sets this location apart for its picturesque qualities.

• Varied Camping Options: The park caters to different preferences with "open-face lean-tos" for a rustic experience, and "individual yurts" or a "camp director's cabin" for those seeking more comfortable sleeping quarters. This flexibility ensures a suitable option for diverse camping styles.

• Well-Tended Park Environment: The park is described as "well tended," indicating a commitment to cleanliness, maintenance, and overall visitor experience. This assures campers of a pleasant and hassle-free stay.

• Opportunities for Fishing: With a beautiful lake as its centerpiece, Big Pine and Mountain Lakes Park offer excellent "fishing" opportunities, appealing to anglers looking for a relaxing day on the water. While the specific type of fish in Hemlock Lake is not always detailed, lakes in this region often host various freshwater species.

• Access for Bow Hunting: A unique highlight, as noted by a reviewer, is the suitability of this area for "terrific bow hunting." While regulated by Westchester County Parks' Adaptive Deer Management Program (requiring registration and specific guidelines), this makes Big Pine a valuable spot for licensed local hunters.

• Extensive Recreational Activities: Beyond camping and fishing, the wider Mountain Lakes Park offers a plethora of activities including "scenic trail hiking," "ice skating" (seasonal), "nature exploration," "snow-shoeing," "cross-country skiing," and a "high/low ropes challenge course" (for groups). Canoe rentals are also available on Hemlock Lake.

• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its range of activities, the park maintains a peaceful ambiance, particularly in the camping areas, allowing visitors to truly unwind and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With ample space for various activities, including those suitable for organized groups like Camp Morty (a sleep-away camp for children), the park is well-suited for family outings and creating lasting memories in the outdoors.

For inquiries, reservations, and the most current information regarding Big Pine (as part of Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park) in North Salem, NY, New York locals should utilize the following contact details:

Address: Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, 201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY 10560

Phone: (914) 864-7312 (This is the primary phone number for Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, where you can inquire about camping permits, regulations, canoe rentals, and general park information.)

For camping and specific activity reservations (like canoe rentals or the ropes course), it is highly recommended to call in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Additionally, for comprehensive information, including park regulations, fees, and seasonal updates, visitors should refer to the official website of Westchester County Parks:

Official Park Website: parks.westchestergov.com (Navigate to the "Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park" section for specific details on camping and amenities.)

The North Salem Recreation Department also manages various programs and might have additional contact points:

North Salem Recreation Dept Phone (Off-Season): (914) 669-5665

For any bow hunting inquiries, specifically related to the Adaptive Deer Management Program, it's essential to consult the Westchester County Parks' deer management page or contact their offices directly, as permits and regulations are strictly enforced.

Always verify operating hours, current conditions, and any specific restrictions (such as fire bans) before planning your visit, as these can change due to weather or park management decisions.

Big Pine, nestled within Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem, NY, is an exceptionally suitable destination for New York locals seeking a diverse and enriching outdoor experience. Its location in Westchester County provides convenient access for many residents, allowing for easy day trips or extended camping stays without extensive travel. This proximity is a significant advantage, enabling more frequent visits to enjoy the park's offerings.

For families, the park offers a fantastic blend of activities. The beautiful Hemlock Lake provides opportunities for quiet relaxation, fishing, and canoeing, creating memorable moments by the water. The availability of various camping options, from rustic lean-tos to more comfortable yurts and a cabin, ensures that all preferences are catered to, making it an accessible choice for both seasoned campers and those new to outdoor overnight stays. The well-tended nature of the park guarantees a clean and pleasant environment for all visitors.

Furthermore, the park's multi-faceted appeal, including its renowned status among some for bow hunting (under strict regulation), its extensive hiking trails, and even seasonal winter activities, means that Big Pine offers something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. The emphasis on maintaining a quiet and serene atmosphere ensures that despite the range of activities, visitors can still find peace and tranquility. For New Yorkers eager to connect with nature, engage in diverse outdoor pursuits, and enjoy a well-managed public space, Big Pine at Mountain Lakes Park stands out as an ideal local escape.