A very pretty stretch of the
river, with a creek, an island and a lighthouse. Campsites are
available at the Norrie Point State Park.
Following the cove out into the Hudson River, the island directly to the
west of the Environmental Center is Esopus Island.
There is a small beach on the southeast side of the island and a few
sheltered spots on the west side. A small cove at the north end can
shelter a few boats. Watch for the shoals at the extreme north end of the island
which are marked by a Nun buoy. Remember this island is part of the New
York State Park system and it is a Carry-In Carry-Out location. Please practice
Leave No Trace whenever and where ever you go.
North of Norrie Point lies Mills Mansion on the eastern shore and
beyond the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse can be seen. The Esopus Meadows
Lighthouse, also known as the Maid of the Meadows, was dark for nearly 40
years until it was re-lit as a private aid to navigation along the Hudson River
on May 31, 2003.
The lighthouse was originally built in 1838 to warn mariners of the
dangerous shallows and mud flats between the lighthouse and west shore of the
River. The lighthouse is currently owned by the Save Esopus Lighthouse
Commission.
Launch Area Information
Follow the Norrie Point State Park signs from
Route 9 (Staatsburg, NY) into the park and follow the signs for the Marina.
There is a hand launch in the cove east of the Norrie Point Environmental
Center, look for the stone steps.