The best parks & outdoor spots in Orange County

Crist Bros Orchards, Inc. is a family farm that grows and packs apples with an almost obsessive focus on quality, promising fruit that actually lives up to the crunch in your head. When you want locally grown apples for snacking or baking, these folks keep it simple and stellar.

From the Walden newsletter, October 20, 2026

When you just need a quiet green breather close to home, Riverfront Park is the low-stress stroll and quick catch-up spot you actually use. A simple, town-maintained space that turns quick errands into a little pause and makes weeknights feel lighter.

From the Walden newsletter, October 18, 2026

Whether you just need the kids to run wild or want pretty backdrops for photos, Twin Ponds on the Farm delivers a 7 acre corn maze, hayrides, pumpkin picking, flower fields, barnyard animals, and a 12 ft warp wall. Grab a you-pick bouquet or book a birthday, then relax.

From the Walden newsletter, October 14, 2026

With nearly 50 miles to hike or bike and one of the largest pump tracks on the East Coast, Port Jervis Watershed Park and Recreation Area makes after-work laps or long rambles easy. Bonus points for Boehmler Pond... fish, kayak, row, or paddle board, electric only if you're using a motor.

From the Port Jervis newsletter, October 5, 2026

Whether you’re team dry, a swirl-and-sniff skeptic, or just here for the good vibes, Clearview Vineyard & Winery delivers handcrafted pours, wine pairing plates, live music, and an easygoing scene. Settle in on the porch or wander up the hill for those Hudson Valley views that make you linger longer.

From the Goshen newsletter, October 10, 2026

Whether you're after a low-key apple haul, fresh cider and donuts, or a scoop of farm-fruit ice cream, Ochs Orchard nails the hometown vibe with pick-your-own and a sweet little petting zoo. Heads up, not all apple varieties survived April's freeze, so peek at their updates.

From the Warwick newsletter, October 20, 2026

Summit View Farm lines up BuckyFresh premium fresh-cut Christmas trees from Smokey Holler Tree Farm in North Carolina, the folks behind the 2005 White House tree, and they’ll even ship to your door with BuckyFresh in a Box, plus potted landscaping trees for year-round yard upgrades. Your living room will thank you.

From the Chester newsletter, October 1, 2026

If you care where your food comes from, Orient Green Farm in Goshen lets chickens roam, gathers eggs by hand, and even grows its own corn and soy to feed the flock. Expect pasture-raised eggs, seasonal vegetables grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, and low-key farm experiences perfect for a weekend reset.

From the Florida newsletter, October 4, 2026

Shalimar Alpacas Farm breeds superior fiber producing alpacas and turns their fleece into yarn, scarves, throws and more. Schedule a visit to meet the floofs, then stock up on 100% real alpaca wool pieces that make Warwick cold snaps way more bearable.

From the Warwick newsletter, October 2, 2026

Just over in Walden, Colden Springs Farm is the kind of bucolic reset locals crave, with friendly hosts Jocelyn and Tyler, open fields, and animals that will steal your heart. When you’re ready to truly unplug and reconnect with nature, their farm stay makes it easy.

From the Montgomery newsletter, September 28, 2026

Wagon Wheel Farm LLC is a family-run spot for locally laid eggs, sweet corn, sunflowers, pumpkins, and vegetables, plus serious hay and straw for folks who need it. Sustainable practices, a tidy farm stand, and fall pumpkin picking make it an easy yes for Goshen residents.

From the Goshen newsletter, September 30, 2026

, and private events that actually taste like Hudson Valley. Chef Ciarán McGoldrick’s farm-to-table menus and award-finalist cred make it an easy yes when you want something special without leaving home turf.

From the Chester newsletter, October 16, 2026

Purple Path Inc grows English and French lavender without chemicals, turning those purple (and sometimes white) blooms into bundles and sachets that actually smell like summer.

From the Goshen newsletter, October 16, 2026

Right in your backyard, Black Bear RV Park keeps it simple and comfortable with full hookup sites, big rig friendly spots, fire rings, and pet-friendly vibes, plus nature trails when you need to stretch your legs.

From the Port Jervis newsletter, October 22, 2026

Chester Agricultural Center brings together member farms on Chester’s famous Black Dirt to grow organic, regenerative produce, host community learning and celebrations, and even rent event space or stock the farm stand, all while supporting new farmers with long-term land access...

From the Goshen newsletter, October 22, 2026

Blooming Hill Farm serves up farm dining, a produce-packed shop and farmstand, CSA shares, flowers, and low-key events that make the week feel a little saner. Swing by when you want fresh flavors and an easy reset... basically Hudson Valley comfort, straight from the source.

From the Chester newsletter, October 8, 2026