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BBQ spots in parks

A park that permits a proper BBQ setup without the restrictive rules that usually ruin the experience.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Tallman Mountain State Park image 1
Tallman Mountain State Park image 2
Tallman Mountain State Park image 3
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State park offers scenic mountain and river views with quiet, peaceful atmosphere and ample picnic and barbecue areas. Facilities include seasonal pools, playgrounds, tennis courts, and hiking trails. The environment stays calm even on busy days, making it ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.

Picturesque views from the top and a long path trail offer beautiful scenery and peaceful forest walks. Picnic areas and BBQ spots make it good for family outings and quiet moments even on busy days.

Barbecue pits and tables spread throughout the park offer plenty of spots for outdoor grilling. Some BBQ areas require a short walk to reach scenic views while cooking.

People are saying

"I loved the great views of the Hudson River."

"The park's scenery and views are beautiful and peaceful."

"The BBQ pits here are really nice."

Good to know

1

You can't bring your own food into the pool area.

2

The park has many grills and space for a large group of people.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during weekends and holidays.

02
Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 5 image 1

Park offers unbeatable city views including sunsets and night lights over Manhattan. It maintains a relaxing, quiet atmosphere with well-kept sports fields and diverse amenities like volleyball, basketball, and playgrounds. The space supports family-friendly activities alongside opportunities for exercise and leisure by the waterfront.

Wide open spaces offer scenic views of the city and river with plenty of walking trails and bike lanes. The park includes playgrounds, a small beach, kayak rentals, grills, and eateries, making it suitable for families, singles, and couples.

BBQ area includes bleachers and drinking fountains. It offers a great space for barbecues with friends and celebrations.

People are saying

"The view of Manhattan from here is amazing."

"It's a great space for a BBQ with grills and tables."

"The park offers beautiful views of Lower Manhattan."

Good to know

1

The soccer field is free to use.

2

Parking is available, but can be an issue during busy times.

3

The restroom facility is clean and within a 5-minute walk from the pier.

03
Kanawauke Picnic Area image 1

Picnic ground offers gorgeous lake views with many picnic tables and grills scattered in a quiet, serene setting. Families gather for picnics and BBQs while others enjoy kayak and boat launches on the water. A small nature museum adds a unique touch to the peaceful, spacious area surrounded mostly by trees.

A scenic park with a picnic area and kayak spots on the lake offers great fishing and space for families to BBQ. Clean restrooms sit centrally, making it convenient during visits.

Gorgeous setting with complete barbecue facilities makes grilling easy and enjoyable. Fishing adds a nice touch to the outdoor experience.

People are saying

"I found this park to be a beautiful, scenic spot by the lake."

"I enjoyed the nice lake view, watching geese and kayaks."

"I had a great time doing a BBQ here."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $6, which might be higher during busy weekends.

2

The restrooms are centrally located and clean.

3

The picnic area has plenty of tables and space for gatherings.

04
Pier 76 at Hudson River Park image 1

Open, brutalist structure offers huge outdoor space with fantastic views of the river and city skyline. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and peaceful to vibrant and lively during events featuring live music, dance, and art installations. Popular for rollerskating, cycling, and social gatherings with plenty of room for activities.

Large open space offers great river views and displays about ocean liners. Free summer dance classes happen every Thursday. Benches face away from the water, and shade is limited due to few trees.

Events feature live blues music paired with authentic BBQ. Ribs and brisket from vendors like @Jase's BBQ stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"The sunset views over the Hudson River are simply wonderful."

"The BBQ here is authentic and amazing with great music."

"The park offers amazing river views, perfect for sunset photos."

Good to know

1

The free summer Thursday salsa event is great for all skill levels.

2

The Blues & BBQ event on 8/16/2025 features amazing performances and food.

3

Latin summer events occur on Thursday evenings during warm weather.

05
Five Islands Park image 1

Park offers quiet, serene atmosphere with beautiful water views and well-maintained picnic and barbecue areas. Features include playground, walking trails, and boardwalks connecting small islands. Space is ample for picnics and outdoor activities, making it a calm spot for families and photography.

Well maintained with clean trails and open fields, this park offers amazing ocean views and a peaceful vibe. It features a playground with slides, swings, and a large sandbox, plus an outdoor pavilion for gatherings.

Grills sit right by the water in a well-maintained park. The spot works well for family gatherings and picnic cookouts.

People are saying

"You'll find amazing views of the Long Island Sound here."

"It's a beautiful park with nice scenery and water views."

"The BBQ area is well-maintained with plenty of shade and sitting space."

Good to know

1

There are restrooms on site.

2

During the summer, non-New Rochelle residents have to pay a $10.00 parking fee.

3

Visitors should be cautious of muddy surfaces and test the water before stepping in.

06
Cunningham Park image 1

Large green space offers trails for hiking and biking, sports courts, and playgrounds for children. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing with plenty of open areas for picnics and gatherings. Facilities include BBQ spots and benches, creating a versatile spot for outdoor activities and quiet time.

A sizable park with tennis courts, walking trails, and playgrounds offers space for families and groups. It supports activities like barbecues, picnics, and sports with ample parking and a clean, well-kept environment.

Plenty of space with fully-stocked BBQ grills makes cooking out easy. Barbecue areas suit family gatherings and picnics, with some spots requiring permission through park agents.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, clean, and great for kids."

"It's a really kid friendly place with a fantastic playground."

"It's a beautiful place for a BBQ with plenty of space."

Good to know

1

The NY Philharmonic performs free concerts in the park during summer.

2

Fireworks shows often follow concerts in the park.

3

A farmers market operates in the parking lot every Sunday.

07
Pelham Bay Park image 1

Park offers a quiet atmosphere despite proximity to major highway I95. It provides a calm space away from typical urban noise.

Expansive outdoor space offers beautiful landscapes with abundant greenery and wild deer. Facilities include a huge playground, a dog park, picnic areas, and spots for community gatherings and exercise.

Various barbecue areas with grills and picnic spots make it easy to gather with family and friends. Facilities include bathrooms and open spaces for sports, enhancing the barbecue experience.

People are saying

"It's a huge park with spacious trails and waterfront views."

"It's a lot of fun, especially for summer."

"It's a nice area to have a BBQ picnic."

Good to know

1

The park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.

2

Parking is available at the main entrance with no fees.

3

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times.

08
Valley Stream State Park image 1

Large green space offers shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, and basketball courts. Atmosphere stays calm and peaceful, attracting families and groups for barbecues and walks. Wildlife and nature add to the relaxing environment.

Large, beautifully wooded space offers picnic areas under trees and playgrounds for kids. Free toy rentals and accessible bathrooms add convenience for family gatherings and BBQs.

Large picnic areas offer plenty of space for barbecue gatherings. Helpful staff assist in locating BBQ spots, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing cookout with family or friends.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of grills."

"It's a great park for family gatherings and BBQs."

"It's a great spot for BBQ and family gatherings."

Good to know

1

Everyone pays $8 to enter the park.

2

Dogs are not allowed in the park.

3

The bathrooms are not available during busy holiday weekends.

09
Wantagh Park image 1

Park offers waterfront views and spacious playgrounds with a pool complex featuring slides and spray areas. Atmosphere stays peaceful and friendly, with a cool breeze off the water. Visitors find plenty of room for games, picnics, and relaxing walks along a 2-mile trail by the bay.

Wide open spaces with clean, well-maintained grounds make this park great for families. It offers a kid-friendly playground, a dog park, sports courts, a pool, and barbecue areas by the water.

BBQ areas include large gazebos and many tables that can be rearranged. These spots overlook the bay and are popular for parties and gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the park to be beautiful and clean."

"It's a great kid-friendly place with multiple playgrounds."

"I had a great time at a BBQ in the park."

Good to know

1

Wantagh Park has a boat launch, a swimming pool, picnic areas, and ball fields.

2

Expect a clean environment with well-maintained facilities throughout the park.

3

The park hosts summer concerts and community events, attracting large crowds.

10
Waterfront Park (Dobbs Ferry) image 1

Park offers spacious, well-kept grounds with beautiful Hudson River views including the NYC skyline and sunsets. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, ideal for walking, fishing, or relaxing. Amenities include a playground, fishing pier, and BBQ grills, supporting varied outdoor activities.

Spacious and well kept, the park offers beautiful views of the Hudson River and NYC. It features a nice children's area, grills for BBQing, and peaceful spots for evening walks.

Comfortable BBQ grills sit towards the end of the park with tables and benches nearby. The area supports bringing your own food and gear for a relaxed cookout.

People are saying

"The views of the Hudson River and Manhattan are gorgeous."

"The parks here offer beautiful views of the Hudson River."

"It's a beautiful place for a BBQ with a great river view."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the park, but fees apply.

2

The park has public restrooms and a playground for kids.

3

Expect a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for picnics and relaxation.

11
Hempstead Lake State Park image 1

Spacious park with two lakes and extensive sports courts including tennis and pickleball. Atmosphere ranges from peaceful and tranquil to lively with loud Hispanic music near barbecue areas. Features include playgrounds, picnic spots with grills, and trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding.

A large park with a lake that adds a special touch. It offers bike trails, playgrounds, picnic tables, and BBQ grills for all ages. The park stays clean and has activities for kids and families to enjoy together.

Tables and BBQ grills sit ready for family and friends to gather. A playground and carousel add fun nearby while people enjoy barbecues and picnics.

People are saying

"This park is a beautiful, peaceful escape by the lake."

"It's a really Kid Friendly place with playgrounds and a carousel."

"It's a nice place for BBQs with plenty of tables and grills."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $8 per car during the season, free after 4pm.

2

Dogs are no longer allowed to swim in the lake.

3

The playground is temporarily closed until May 17th, 2024.

12
St. Nicholas Park image 1

Expansive park offers scenic hills, playgrounds, and sports courts with areas for picnics and barbecues. It maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere with quiet spots for reading and social meadows. Dog-friendly spaces and varied elevation make it welcoming for families, locals, and active visitors.

Expansive green space offers scenic hills and a designated dog park for pets to socialize. Facilities include playgrounds, sports courts, and barbecue areas, making it ideal for walking, jogging, picnics, and relaxation.

Large open spaces support family barbecues and group gatherings. Facilities allow for picnics and grilling throughout the park. Seasonal events include community barbecues.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park, great for relaxing and enjoying nature."

"It's a great place for a dog walk with a nice dog park."

"I had a family barbecue at this nice park."

Good to know

1

The Christmas tree lighting event occurs annually in winter at the park.

2

Concerts are regularly scheduled at the park throughout the summer.

3

Bathrooms may close early, so plan your visit accordingly.

13
Glen Island Park image 1

Waterfront park offers panoramic views and a crescent-shaped beach with facilities for boating and water sports. Spacious grounds include picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and sports areas, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Calm and peaceful settings dominate, though occasional noise from groups can occur.

Breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and surrounding islands define the park. It offers a gorgeous beach for sunbathing and swimming, plus a marina, playground, and clean restrooms. The park is well maintained and peaceful, great for fishing, walking, or relaxing.

Organized picnic areas offer plenty of BBQ space for groups. The setting combines nature views with spots to relax, walk, and enjoy meals outdoors.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful water views here."

"It's a beautiful park with spacious grounds."

"It's a beautiful place to have a BBQ with lovely water views."

Good to know

1

The park charges a $10 entrance fee for Westchester County residents.

2

Parking requires a permit, which can be hard to find.

3

The kitchen is open only on weekends, serving hot dogs and hamburgers.

14
Willowbrook Park image 1

Park offers well-maintained lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a beautiful lake creating a peaceful atmosphere. Playgrounds and a carousel for children provide safe, fun spaces while picnic tables and barbecue pits support group gatherings. Energy shifts from lively daytime activity to quiet, serene evenings.

Well-maintained lawns and vibrant flower beds create a serene atmosphere. Walking trails stay clean and well-marked, while playgrounds and a carousel offer fun for kids. A beautiful lake and picnic areas provide spots for relaxation and gatherings.

Shady spots with picnic tables and barbecue grills make it easy to cook outdoors. The park has a recreation area designed for family barbecues and gatherings.

People are saying

"I found this park to be beautiful and well-maintained."

"It's a wonderful, peaceful place to relax."

"It's a wonderful place for a family BBQ."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and convenient for visitors.

2

The park has clean restrooms nearby for public use.

3

The carousel opens at 11 am on weekends with a $3 fee.

15
Haverstraw Bay Park image 1

Park offers stunning Hudson River views and tranquil waterfront scenery. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with playgrounds and picnic areas supporting family activities. Facilities include a boat launch dock and shaded tables, enhancing outdoor enjoyment.

The park offers stunning Hudson River views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Families enjoy the fenced-in kiddie playground, picnic gazebos, and clean, safe spaces for outdoor activities.

Kiosks with well-maintained barbecue grills make it easy to have a BBQ party. Facilities support picnics and barbecues, creating a good spot for cooking outdoors and fishing.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with tranquil water and scenic views."

"It's a great place for kids to play on the playground."

"It's a beautiful place for a BBQ party."

Good to know

1

The parking lot can fill up for events in the area.

2

There is ample parking available at the park.

3

The boat launch costs $10, but small non-powered boats are free.

16
Rockland Lake State Park image 1

Large lake with breathtaking views and a cool breeze creates a peaceful atmosphere. Spacious swimming pool with water slides attracts families and children. Park offers wooden paths through forested areas and large picnic spaces, though some areas can become crowded and noisy.

Spacious areas offer picnics, camping, and BBQs with a beautiful lake and mountain backdrop. Trails support running, biking, and rollerblading, while a swimming pool and playground keep it family-friendly and fun.

Clean and well maintained BBQ areas support cookouts with friends or family. The park suits picnics and barbecue parties for casual gatherings.

People are saying

"It's perfect for walks and picnics with ample space."

"I found the parks here to be excellent and wonderful."

"It's a great place for BBQ and family fun."

Good to know

1

The parking fee is $10 per car.

2

The entry fee is $5 per person.

3

No food or drinks are allowed near the pool area.

17
Heckscher State Park image 1

Vast park grounds include beach views, spacious campgrounds, and modern cottages. Peaceful and quiet atmosphere prevails despite summer crowds, with plenty of benches and grills scattered throughout. Facilities support family picnics, playground activities, and group gatherings in pavilion areas.

Extremely huge with bike trails, campgrounds, and beaches near playgrounds and parking. Offers free entry after certain hours and has well maintained visitor centers. Deer sightings and vast grass areas add to the natural feel.

Hundreds of seats, benches, tables, and multiple BBQ pits fill large spaces designed for barbecues and large family events. The area combines picnic spots with fire pits, allowing barbecues alongside hiking and beach activities.

People are saying

"It's a great place for a picnic with lots of shade and space."

"I found the park to be beautiful with amazing views."

"It's a great spot for a spacious BBQ."

Good to know

1

The park is free after 4pm on weekdays and after 6pm on weekends.

2

There is a $10 entry fee to the park.

3

Expect ticks from March through October; take precautions when visiting.

18
Croton Point Park image 1

Park offers spacious sites with large trees and waterfront views of a river. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, with occasional natural sounds like train whistles. Facilities include camping areas, a beach, playground, and picnic spots, supporting a range of outdoor activities.

A large park built on a hidden landfill offers camping options including tents, cabins, and an RV park. It features beach access, kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing spots, and plenty of space for volleyball and other activities.

Multiple barbecue areas exist, so no need to bring a grill. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere and well-kept surroundings ideal for group picnics and barbecues.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing, stunning views of the Hudson River."

"The parks here are beautiful with stunning river views."

"I had a BBQ and enjoyed the peaceful, well-kept surroundings."

Good to know

1

Restrooms are available and kept very clean throughout the park.

2

Drinking alcohol can result in a warning or removal from the park.

3

A permit is required for groups of 26 or more people.

19
Baisley Pond Park image 1

Park centers on a large pond with scenic views and spacious playgrounds for children. Atmosphere stays peaceful and clean, inviting quiet walks and family activities. Daily sports like cricket and baseball add lively community energy.

A serene lake setting anchors this large park, offering plenty of space for families and outdoor activities. Well-maintained playgrounds and sports courts support kids and adults, while ample parking and a clean environment make visits comfortable.

Plenty of wide open space and picnic tables make it easy to barbecue without bringing your own grill. You can cook juicy chicken, ribs, or salmon right at the park's barbecue area.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be beautiful and peaceful."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a spacious playground and pond."

"You can have a great BBQ with plenty of space to grill."

Good to know

1

Free concerts are held in the parks during the summer.

2

Movies in the park are organized throughout the summer.

3

City Park Foundation activities include Track, Soccer, Tennis, and Golf from Monday to Thursday, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.

20
Willson’s Woods Park image 1

Large park along a river offers lush greenery and family-friendly water attractions including a wave pool and slides. Playgrounds and sports courts create a lively, active atmosphere with many children and families. Picnic areas with BBQ grills and walking trails support a relaxed, communal vibe.

Lush greenery, towering trees, and a serene lake create a magical atmosphere. The park features a clean water park with exhilarating slides, a pool, and a beautiful chalet. Families enjoy the playgrounds and trails, making it a great spot for hanging out and connecting.

Spacious areas with nice BBQ grills make it easy to set up and enjoy a barbecue. The park offers a small, pleasant space ideal for BBQs and picnics.

People are saying

"It's a really nice place for kids and family."

"It's a nice space for BBQs and picnics."

"This park is a clean and beautiful place for kids."

Good to know

1

Access to the park is restricted to Westchester County residents with proper ID.

2

The concession stand is cash only, so bring cash for snacks.

3

Children under 5 enter for free, but this isn't always communicated.

21
Crotona Park image 1

Spacious green park with large lawns, tennis courts, and a pond with ducks creates a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Multiple amenities include a playground, amphitheatre, and sports fields, supporting family-friendly activities. Quiet areas offer relaxation despite a constant distant highway noise.

Large space with mature trees and a big pond offers peaceful nature walks and plenty of lawn for picnics. Play areas include a jungle gym, swings, and sprinklers, all near picnic spots where adults can watch kids easily.

Open spaces with ample grills make it easy to have a barbecue with family or friends. The park supports group gatherings for casual BBQ parties.

People are saying

"I found the park to be very large and beautiful."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a playground and sprinklers."

"I had a nice time having a BBQ with my friends here."

Good to know

1

SummerStage music events feature free concerts throughout the summer.

2

Events at Crotona Park often start late due to new regulations.

3

The park has free tennis courts available for public use.

22
Ferry Point Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline and iconic bridges. It maintains a serene and spacious atmosphere where people can relax without crowding. Facilities include picnic areas with grills and a golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, attracting diverse visitors.

Waterfront views include the Manhattan skyline and Whitestone Bridge. The park offers picnic areas with grills, a golf course, and space for cricket. It stays clean, quiet, and has free parking nearby.

Multiple barbecue stations sit in a quiet park setting with toilets nearby. The area suits picnics and group gatherings like birthday BBQs.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views of the bridge and water."

"The parks here offer beautiful scenic views of the river and city."

"It's a great place for a BBQ with family and friends."

Good to know

1

Visitors should bring all food and supplies they want, as there is nothing available in the park.

2

The restrooms close around 5:30 PM.

3

You can take a boat to Manhattan from the park.

23
Canarsie Park image 1

Large open space with many trees and paved pathways creates a spacious, peaceful atmosphere. Areas for sports, playgrounds, and picnics attract families and groups enjoying outdoor activities. The park feels calm and less crowded, offering a quiet escape with plenty of shade and seating.

Spanning a large area, the park offers multiple play areas for kids and sports equipment for active fun. It features a quiet conservation area, paved trails, and spots for BBQs and picnics, all kept clean and safe during the day.

Plenty of space to barbecue with family or friends. Areas suit small gatherings like kids' parties or baby showers.

People are saying

"This park is spacious and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors."

"The playground has equipment suitable for kids of all ages."

"It's a nice spot for a small BBQ gathering."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find at Canarsie Park, so arrive early.

2

There are no lights in the park after sunset, making it unsafe at night.

3

The park hosts events like the NYRR Open Run, offering a scenic route.

24
Lake Welch Beach image 1
Swimming lake

Spacious lake beach offers soft sand, designated swimming area, and ample picnic and barbecue spots with grills and tables. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, ideal for families and nature enjoyment without loud music. Lifeguards and first aid are consistently present, enhancing safety.

Beautiful beach and picnic areas offer spots for barbecues and relaxing with family and friends. Staff work hard to keep the whole park clean, supporting a calm atmosphere without loud music.

Several barbecue areas exist, so bringing your own grill is not necessary. The spots are spacious and suitable for groups, with a variety of food options available at the snack bar.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"It's a great place for a BBQ with friends and family."

"Parking at these parks costs $10 and helps keep the beach clean."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 per car at Lake Welch Beach.

2

The park closes at 4:00pm, not 8:00pm as previously thought.

3

Dogs are not allowed at Lake Welch Beach.

25
Haffen Park image 1

Open fields and multiple sports courts create space for basketball, tennis, soccer, and softball. Clean pools and BBQ areas add to a family-friendly atmosphere. The park stays quiet and safe, with shade trees and a playground enhancing its peaceful vibe.

A clean pool with excellent staff offers swimming and cool relief. Plenty of space supports sports, picnics, and barbecues with courts and fields for tennis, basketball, soccer, and softball.

BBQ areas are open and available with plenty of shade. Facilities support family and friends gatherings alongside other activities like swimming and sports.

People are saying

"The parks here have pools, sports courts, and playgrounds."

"I had an awesome BBQ here; the area was open and available."

"I felt it was Kid Friendly because the kids were safe."

Good to know

1

Police presence at Haffen Park helps ensure safety for families.

2

The park is always clean, including the bathrooms.

3

A park ranger is always on duty for visitor assistance.

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