“ TO PROVIDE AN OASIS OF BEAUTY AND QUIET FOR THE PLEASURE, REST AND REFRESHMENT OF THOSE WHO DELIGHT IN OUTDOOR BEAUTY; AND TO BRING ABOUT A GREATER APPRECIATION AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE VALUE AND IMPORTANCE OF INFORMAL PLANTING.”

– Stated Purpose of the Arboretum

The Bayard Cutting Arboretum consisting of 690 acres was donated to the Long Island State Park Region by Mrs. William Bayard Cutting and her daughter Mrs. Olivia James in memory of William Bayard Cutting.

Utilizing plans conceived by the noted landscape architectural firm of Frederick Law Olmstead, the Arboretum development was begun in 1887.  The current collection of fir, spruce, pine, cypress, hemlock, yew and other lesser known conifers is probably the most extensive to be found on Long Island.  Also found are extensive plantings of dwarf evergreens, rhododendron, azaleas, hollies and oaks.  Wildflowers and daffodils are featured in many woodland locations.
Today you can meander the grounds passing a system of streams and ponds that feed into the Connetquot River as you enjoy the naturalistic setting of the plantings or sit quietly and enjoy one of the many secluded spots as you contemplate nature’s beauty.

The Cutting residence contains many magnificent features and is continually being restored through private donations.  You can inquire about tours in the delightful Gift Shop and enjoy a pleasant meal in the café as you gaze through the Tiffany windows or sit on the elegant porch looking across the lawn to the river beyond.