The mill on the Connetquot River was built between 1701 and 1751 by William Nicoll, the owner of Islip Grange. Islip Grange included most of what we now call the town of Islip. The area was first opened to limited public access in August 1973, and was designated as the first State Park Preserve in the State of New York on August 7, 1987. The Park Preserve legislation insures the preservation of this unique refuge in its present state, with diverse programs and activities geared to develop awareness of the value and beauty of the remaining natural area of Long Island. The land supports many interesting plants and animals typical of the glacial outwash plain of Long Island.
Deer are abundant and readily seen.
Many species of waterfowl winter on the Main Pond and hawks and owls can be found in the woodland. Some rare nesting birds include eastern bluebirds, the osprey, the brown creeper, and the winter wren. Rare plants such as pyxie moss, trailing arbutus and several types of orchids can be located in their natural habitat. Only A permit is needed for all access to the preserve. Requests should be made, in writing, to Connetquot River State Park Preserve, PO Box 505, Sunrise Highway, Oakdale, NY 11769.