About
The Sam's Point Preserve, located on the highest section of the Shawangunk Mountains, is the most southerly section of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. The area comprises approximately 5,000 acres, and contains a globally rare community of high altitude pitch pine barrens. The pitch pine barrens, and the matrix of chestnut oak forest that surrounds them, provide habitat for abundant flora and fauna, both rare and common.
Sam's Point contains a bounty of natural splendor. It is home to Lake Maratanza, one of the five Shawangunk sky lakes; Verkeerder Kill Falls, a spectacular 187 foot high waterfall; ice cave crevices that you can explore; cliffs and numerous scenic vistas. All of these features are accessible to hikers via an approximately 14 mile network of old roads and footpaths. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, deer hunting, nature observation, dog walking and a direct immersive experience within an incredible natural environment.
Sam's Point Preserve contains the Sam's Point Visitor Center, an energy efficient and LEED certified structure, which houses many interpretive displays on the natural and cultural history of Sam's Point, for all ages.