Holistic Birding
Blauvelt State Park
Overview
Blauvelt State Park encompasses 590 acres of forested habitat in Rockland County, offering quiet woodland trails, scenic overlooks, and a glimpse into the area’s military history. The park occupies the former site of Camp Bluefields, a rifle range used to train members of the New York National Guard prior to World War I. Today, nature lovers can explore mature forest, old roadbeds, historic rifle range tunnels, and other remnants of the park’s past while enjoying a peaceful natural setting.
Birding Blauvelt State Park
Until recently, Blauvelt State Park was often overlooked as a birding destination. As more birders have explored its trails, it has proven to be a rewarding park especially during spring migration, with approximately 129 recorded on eBird, including 26 species of warblers.
Its extensive deciduous forest also supports a variety of woodland birds throughout the breeding season, making it well worth a visit.
Visitor Information
-
A trail map is highly recommended, as the park’s trail system can be confusing in places.
-
The park is largely undeveloped, with moderately rugged hiking trails and no restroom facilities.
-
Historic rifle range tunnels and other remnants of Camp Bluefields can still be seen along portions of the trail system.
-
Trail map: https://parks.ny.gov/sites/default/files/BlauveltTrailMap.pdf
-
For more information visit the park's website.
-
Apple maps does have directions to the park (Greenbush Road, Blauvelt), but always check the route first!
For current bird sightings and other information, visit eBird.
