We want your visit to Avalon Nature Preserve to be as pleasant as possible while putting nature first. We have compiled a few commonly asked questions and answers.
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Tuesday – Sunday, year round. Closed Mondays.
Spring: 7AM-7PM (April-May)
Summer: 6AM-8PM (June-August)
Fall: 7AM-7PM (September-October)
Winter: 7AM-5PM (November-March)
No, entrance to the preserve is always free.
Parking is ONLY permitted in designated parking lots along Shep Jones Lane.
DO NOT PARK ANYWHERE ALONG SHEP JONES LANE THAT IS NOT WITHIN A DESIGNATED PARKING LOT, THIS IS AN ACTIVE ROADWAY AND MUST ALLOW FOR THRU TRAFFIC. VIOLATORS WILL BE TICKETED.
Parking will NOT be available anywhere along Harbor Road, please DO NOT attempt to park along this road, Rhododendron, or any other neighboring roads when visiting the preserve.
Avalon has no public restrooms.
In accordance with our “leave no trace” ethos, Avalon asks that you carry out what you carry in.
Avalon asks that you enjoy the habitat without picnicking. There are great eating options within walking distance in nearby Stony Brook Village.
Groups of up to 15 are permitted in the preserve but must receive permission from the preserve office. Please contact us at 631-689-0619.
Unfortunately we no longer allow professional photography at Avalon.
Avalon does not allow visitors to host any special events.
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A portion of the Mill Pond trail is wheelchair accessible. Please call the main office for more information.
Yes. Please follow this link for an interactive map of the preserve’s trails and environments.
Avalon Nature Preserve has an outstanding field guide – to purchase visit our online shop.
There are no regular guided tours at Avalon Nature Preserve.
Absolutely. We love dogs at Avalon, but we have some simple rules for them and their owners.
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Avalon’s office is located at 200 Harbor Road, Stony Brook, New York.
The barn is located on 60 Shep Jones Lane in the Village of Head of the Harbor.
The barn is only open to the public during programs; it is closed to the public during all other times.
No.
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No. The feeding of any wildlife is strictly prohibited. Please observe all wildlife from a distance and remember that you are a guest in their home.
From time to time, our outstanding maintenance staff will be working on habitat restoration and trail improvements. Please refrain from entering closed areas at all times.
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The Preserve hosts a wide variety of programs throughout the year. For further information, please see our interactive calendar.