Dog-friendly parks and beaches on Long Island

BY CORRIS LITTLE | corris.little@newsday.com

There's nothing better than enjoying the great outdoors with a few good friends, but what if your friends are among the four-legged set? Long Islanders enjoy several parks where dogs are free to socialize, romp and play to their heart's content. So go ahead, BYOD -- bring your own dog -- and check out a few great spots for you and your furry friends.

Here's a growing list of state and county parks where your dogs can roam free or leashed. If you know of more dog-friendly parks, dog runs and the like, send an e-mail to corris.little@newsday.com for inclusion on this list.

In Nassau

Bay Park

First Avenue, East Rockaway, 516-571-7245 This park has a dedicated dog run for off leash play. Dogs are not allowed in any county parks, preserves or facilities.

Christopher Morley Park
Searingtown Road, Roslyn- North Hills, 516-571-8113 This park has a dedicated dog run for off leash play. Dogs are not allowed in any county parks, preserves or facilities.

Cedar Creek Park
Merrick Road, Seaford, 516-571-7470
Cedar Creek Park Dog Run Association This park has a dedicated dog run for off leash play. Dogs are not allowed in any county parks, preserves or facilities.

Nickerson Beach Park
Lido Boulevard, Lido, 516-571-7700 This park has a dedicated dog run for off leash play. Dogs are not allowed in any county parks, preserves or facilities.

Wantagh Park
Kings Road and Canal Place, Wantagh, 516-571-7460
Wantagh Organization of Friends Dog Park (WOOF) This park has a dedicated dog run for off leash play. Dogs are not allowed in any county parks, preserves or facilities. See photos from the Basset Hound Olympics held at Wantagh park.

In Suffolk

West Hills Dog Park
Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington
This newly opened dog park is 1.75 acres with a water fountain and bag dispensers. Watch this video of West Hills Dog Park.
LI Dog Owners Group, lidog_news@yahoo.com