Rockland Lake, NY

The commercial history of Rockland Lake dates back to the 18th century when the area was known as Slaughter Landing because of the natural ravine in the Palisades just north of Verdriegete Hoek, the name the Dutch gave for Hook Mountain. The Hook was known as "The Troublesome Point" where a hotel and ferry landing to Tarrytown stood from the time of the Revolution until the 1900s. During the 19th century ice was harvested from the pristine waters of Rockland Lake and rock was quarried from the cliffs overlooking the Hudson River. Later, the lake became a popular resort area and amusement park attracting people from New York City by steamboat and train. In the 20th century, with the invention of refrigeration, the ice industry collapsed and preservation of the Palisade cliffs began. The state acquired most of the property and created Rockland Lake State Park as we know it today.

Rockland Lake Today

In 2004, Friends of Rockland Lake, Inc. was founded as a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the preservation of the local history and the valuable resource of Rockland Lake State Park.

If you enjoy the Lake, the Hudson River, fishing, hawk watching, hiking trails, golf, swimming, bike riding or just relaxing or reading, Rockland Lake has something for you.

Membership in Friends of Rockland Lake and Hook Mountain

Your membership support will be designated specifically to projects for Rockland Lake State Park. Friends of Rockland Lake and Hook Mountain, Inc. is not part of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission (PIPC) but is made up of concerned individuals like you wishing to work in collaboration with the PIPC to preserve this valuable local resource.

Membership Levels

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Historic Marker Installation and Press Conference

On October 4, 2008 The Friends installed a historic marker at the site of the former historic ice cutting industry in cooperation with the Rockland County Historical Society and the Office of Parks and Recreation. The historic marker was funded through Friends' membership proceeds and the Town of Clarkstown.

Please click here for more photos.

Friends of Rockland Lake and Hook Mountain
2010 Board Meeting Schedule

January 24 (Sunday) 4 p.m.
Location: Knickerbocker Firehouse

April 18 (Sunday) 4 p.m.
Location: Program Center (Following Keep Rockland Beautiful Day)

July 11 (Sunday) 4 p.m.
Location: Program Center

October 10 (Sunday) 4 p.m.
Location: Program Center (Following Annual Fall Walking Tour)

Thank You...

A generous thank you to Parks & Trails, NY for a $1,500 capacity building grant to support the development of a new membership information brochure. www.ptny.org