Waterfalls on Long Island: Hidden Cascades, Park Spillways & Scenic Spots to Explore

Long Island’s famously flat topography means true waterfalls on Long Island are rare. Yet Nassau County, NY and neighboring Suffolk County hide charming cascades, spillways and landscaped falls in parks and preserves. From a gentle waterfall at Muttontown Preserve in East Norwich to the historic spillway on the Upper Carmans River in Yaphank, these seven spots offer photo-worthy views, easy trails and community value for families, young professionals and active retirees alike. Read on for trail details, parking tips and why each waterfall-like feature matters to local residents—and be sure to subscribe or visit our events page for guided hikes and seasonal outings.

1. Muttontown Preserve Waterfall – East Norwich

Nestled near Jericho Turnpike in East Norwich, the Muttontown Preserve Waterfall is a small man-made cascade along the preserve’s walking trails. Though only 3–4 feet tall, the tumbling water over stone ledges creates a peaceful woodland scene perfect for a short escape.

What You’ll See

• A gentle flow over stacked stones, framed by oak and hickory woods

• Moss and ferns thriving on damp, shaded banks

• A clear plunge pool ideal for macro photography

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Off Jericho Turnpike, near Oyster Bay Road

• Parking: Free lot at the main entrance; no permit required

• Difficulty: Easy – 0.5-mile loop on compacted dirt

• Accessibility: Not ADA-compliant; trail can be muddy after rain

Photo-Friendly Features

• Long exposures on overcast days for silky water effects

• Close-ups of mossy rocks with soft dappled light

• Wide shots showing the cascade against autumn foliage

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Picnic tables and restrooms at the trailhead

• Combine with a visit to Muttontown’s historic playground

• Bring insect repellent in late spring and summer

2. Sands Point Preserve Waterfall – Sands Point

At the tip of the Cow Neck Peninsula in Sands Point Preserve, you’ll find a landscaped waterfall nestled along manicured gardens and woodlands. This romantic feature is a favorite for local photographers and a quick stop for families visiting Port Washington.

What You’ll See

• A tiered waterfall flowing into a stone basin

• Decorative plantings, stone bridges and benches for viewing

• An elegant stone pavilion nearby, often used for events

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Shore Road, Sands Point

• Parking: Designated lot at the Gulf Gate; small fee or NY State Parks pass

• Difficulty: Very easy – paved paths and garden sidewalks

• Accessibility: ADA-compliant throughout the main garden area

Photo-Friendly Features

• Golden hour shots illuminating the falls and pavilion

• Reflections in the still pool before the cascade

• Framing the waterfall with seasonal flower beds

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Café at the Vanderbilt Mansion Visitor Center

• Restrooms, picnic tables and interpretive signage

• Check for seasonal concerts and garden tours on weekends

3. Avalon Park & Preserve Waterfall – Stony Brook

This handcrafted waterfall at Avalon Park & Preserve emerges along a winding boardwalk in Stony Brook. Fed by natural springs, the 5–6 small cascades tumble over glacial bedrock, creating a serene woodland oasis just off Route 25A.

What You’ll See

• Multiple drops of clear, spring-fed water over smooth rock

• Lush beech and maple forest framing each cascade

• Occasional wildlife sightings—herons and wood ducks patrol the stream

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Near Stony Brook University entrance, off Route 25A

• Parking: Main lot by the gatehouse; limited spaces on busy days

• Difficulty: Easy–moderate – 1.5-mile loop with uneven boardwalk sections

• Accessibility: Partial ADA – boardwalks are stroller-friendly, but some roots and mud

Photo-Friendly Features

• Slow-shutter shots of silky water on cloudy afternoons

• Macro frames of fresh green moss and fern tips

• Elevated views from the upper boardwalk segments

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Restrooms and water fountains at the visitor center

• Picnic tables and benches at trail junctions

• Download trail map in advance; signage can be sparse

Learn more about Avalon Park and Preserve - Avalon Falls on 516update.com

4. Blydenburgh County Park Spillway – Smithtown

At the headwaters of the Nissequogue River in Smithtown, the spillway at Blydenburgh County Park is a photographer’s favorite. When the dam releases water, a 4-5 foot cascade forms over a stone channel, framed by grassy meadows and forested banks.

What You’ll See

• A broad, low spillway pouring into a shallow pool

• Riverbank wildflowers, cattails and maples in season

• Interpretive signage about the park’s mill history

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Blydenburgh Road West, Smithtown

• Parking: Large lot near the picnic grove; no fee on weekdays

• Difficulty: Easy – 1-mile loop on mixed gravel and dirt

• Accessibility: Partially ADA – paved near parking, then moderate terrain

Photo-Friendly Features

• Panoramic shots of the spillway with rising mist

• Reflections in the calm pool before water drops

• Wide-angle compositions including meadow and forest

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Picnic shelters, grills and restrooms adjacent to spillway

• Kayak rental and fishing access along the river

• Check dam release schedule online for optimal flow

5. Argyle Lake Cascade – Babylon Village

On Argyle Lake’s south end in Babylon Village, a stone spillway creates a charming 6-foot drop into a lily-lined pool. This easy-access cascade is perfect for commuters stopping off Babylon Road or families visiting nearby playgrounds.

What You’ll See

• Tightly stacked stone ledges forming a neat waterfall

• Water lilies, cattails and dragonflies dancing in the shallows

• A gentle rippling soundscape ideal for relaxation

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Argyle Lake Park, off Argyle Lake Road

• Parking: Free lot by the playground; no permit needed

• Difficulty: Very easy – paved 0.3-mile loop

• Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant boardwalk section

Photo-Friendly Features

• Wide shots capturing the full width of the spillway

• Close-ups of water trailing over mossy stones

• Reflection shots of reeds and sky in mirror-calm pool

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Children’s playground, restrooms and picnic tables on site

• Bike racks for riders exploring nearby Babylon trails

• Visit early summer for lily blooms and active birdlife

6. Massapequa Preserve Cascades – Massapequa

Within Massapequa Preserve’s 450 acres, multiple small cascades and stream flows meander through cattail marshes and upland forest. Near Merrick Road you’ll find short side trails that lead to these water features—ideal for a quick photo op or family nature walk.

What You’ll See

• Series of 1–2 foot drops over natural rock in a shaded creek

• Marsh grasses, hardy cattails and seasonal wildflowers

• Painted turtles basking on logs in slow pools

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Merrick Road entrance, Massapequa Preserve

• Parking: Municipal lot; free but fills by midday on Saturdays

• Difficulty: Easy – 0.7-mile out-and-back on woodchip trails

• Accessibility: Not ADA; boardwalk sections cross marshes only

Photo-Friendly Features

• Macro shots of water droplets on reeds

• Framing cascades with yellow marsh flags in late summer

• Slow-shutter exposures under diffuse light

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Picnic area and benches near the main parking

• Combine with a visit to nearby Massapequa Farmers Market

• Wear waterproof footwear after heavy rain

7. Upper Carmans River Spillway – Yaphank

The historic mill spillway on the Upper Carmans River in Yaphank forms a 6-8 foot waterfall-like drop over weathered stone. This spillway is one of the most accessible Long Island waterfalls for history buffs, birdwatchers and families seeking a quiet riverside picnic.

What You’ll See

• A continuous flow over old dam stone, framed by sycamore and oak

• Ferns and moss thriving on damp downstream rocks

• Remnants of 19th-century mill machinery along the bank

Trail & Accessibility

• Location: Off North Main Street, Yaphank

• Parking: Small pull-off on Weeden Road; arrive early on weekends

• Difficulty: Easy – 0.5-mile out-and-back on flat dirt track

• Accessibility: Not ADA; watch for mud near water’s edge

Photo-Friendly Features

• Long exposures under soft light for silky water

• Wide compositions including mill ruins and canopy

• Close-ups of lichen and water patterns on stones

Nearby Amenities & Tips

• Restrooms and picnic tables at Yaphank Community Park (0.7 miles)

• Pack sandwiches for a riverside lunch

• Download Suffolk County Parks map before you go

Best Times to Visit

• Spring (April–June) when rainfall and snowmelt boost flow

• After heavy rain for stronger cascades

• Early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds in Nassau County and Suffolk County parks

• Late autumn for colorful foliage contrasts

Tips for Exploring Long Island Waterfalls

• Safety: Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes to navigate slippery rocks

• Trail Etiquette: Stay on marked paths and carry out all trash

• Gear: Bring a lightweight tripod and polarizing filter for clear water shots

• Wildlife: Carry binoculars for birdwatching along creek corridors

• Permits: Check park pass requirements at Sands Point and county preserves

Ready to Discover Hidden Cascades?

These seven waterfall-like features—spanning East Norwich, Sands Point, Stony Brook, Smithtown, Babylon Village, Massapequa and Yaphank—offer some of the best waterfall hikes Long Island residents can enjoy without leaving the region. Whether you’re planning a family outing from Garden City, a solo photo mission from Levittown, or a weekend nature break after work in Mineola, these local gems deliver scenic value and easy access.

Call to Action: Subscribe to 516 Update for hyperlocal guides on waterfalls on Long Island and community events near you, or visit our events page to sign up for guided waterfall walks, nature festivals and outdoor meetups across Nassau County and Suffolk County.

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