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Have a picnic…

Some like picnics the old-fashioned way: brown bagging it - some good old peanut butter sandwiches, a few Fig Newtons, and an orange is standard fare - on the side of a wilderness trail, solitude and nature their only companions. Others want the whole deal: portable grills, rustic picnic tables, kids playing, great views, and a blanket. The Shawangunks can accommodate both styles.

Naturally, hikers and explorers are free to stop and lunch or snack at any trailside throughout the Shawangunks. All that's required is the obvious obligation to leave absolutely no trace of yourself or your lunch when you leave. Happily, the majority of hikers are environmentally polite and wouldn't even consider leaving any trace of themselves behind when they leave the trails. For those who prefer peace and spontaneity, trailside picnics are the only way to go.

For those who prefer picnicking as the main event for their outing, one of the best picnic areas to be found in the Gunks are in the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Sited near the main parking lot, and resting on a knoll above the exquisite Lake Minnewaska, several picnic tables invite families to sit down to a picnic basket and just enjoy the scene, from viewing the waters below to watching horseback riders trot by.

Picnickers need to bring their own grills, and ground fires are not permitted. A humble concession truck with soda and snacks is often parked in the lot, waiting for either hungry hikers or kids bent on having an ice cream. Because the number of tables and space is limited, the atmosphere remains relatively peaceful (except on weekends).

When planning a picnic at Minnewaska State Park Preserve, please remember that:
  • The park opens daily at 9am. User fees and closing hours are posted at the park entrance and are adjusted seasonally. Information is available at the Park Office regarding Empire Passports for frequent park users, senior citizens discount, and Access Passes for persons with permanent physical disabilities.
  • Minnewaska is a "Carry In - Carry Out" park. Trash receptacles are not provided; you must take your trash out with you.
  • Glass containers are not permitted.
  • Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
  • Only radios used with earphones are permitted.
  • Designated parking areas are provided for your safety. Parking in other areas is not permitted.
  • Camping and campfires are not permitted.
  • For your safety, remain on clearly marked paths and carriageways.
  • Pets are permitted on carriageways and paths. Pets must remain on a leash at all times. Pets are not permitted on any beaches.

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