Croton Point Park holds a unique position as a sprawling peninsula on the eastern shore of the Hudson with a long fascinating history dating back to its Native American inhabitants 7,000 years ago, as a Revolutionary War site, and even a vineyard.

Boasting 508 acres of clearings and forest with camping sites, cabins, hiking trails, a large swimming beach, and a new cricket pitch, there are many paths to explore by foot or bike.

The name Croton comes from an Indian leader Kenoten, meaning “wild wind.” The peninsula was purchased from the Native Americans in 1682 and eventually became part of the Van Cortlandt estate. The Underhill wine vaults, once fermenting the popular drink made here from local grapes, are still intact midway down the southern portion of the Point, built into the slope on the eastern side.

On the Northern promontory is a small nature center open Fridays through Sundays. In snowy weather, you can cross country ski and look out for the eagles known to roost here.

The train station sits conveniently just outside the park entrance. As a county park (as it has been since 1923), there is a seasonal parking fee in effect roughly Memorial Day through Labor Day.

More info here.