Hanofee Memorial Park

Date: July 12, 2024 // By: Nelson Perez

Francis A. Hanofee Memorial Park in Liberty, New York, is a versatile recreation area offering a variety of amenities and activities suitable for all ages. This guide will help families navigate and enjoy the park while considering sensory and behavioral needs.

This is a great park for anyone seeking a location where there are lots of things to do. Below are some things to consider before visiting Hanofee Park. As always, use this post as one resource and take individual needs into account before visiting.

Pros

  • Lots of amenities are offered throughout the park to stay active.
    • See list of amenities below. 
  • Sports and recreation areas are not near the lake, adding to one’s level of comfort.
  • The park has a lot of open space to roam around.
  • There are several areas with space throughout the park to sit and eat.
  • Bathrooms are available.

Considerations

  • Possible elopement risk to lake and woods when hiking.
    • The dock is NOT steady.
  • Games are held here, so it can be busy at times.
  • No swimming is allowed in the lake.
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Amenities

Hanofee park offers lots of amenities located throughout the park. 

  • A public swimming pool with lifeguards
  • Peaceful walks around the lakes with stretching stations
  • Covered and rentable pavilions for parties
  • Playground
  • Sports areas: Basketball court, baseball field, tennis court, a sand-volleyball court, and a gaga ball pit.
    • Basketball court is close to the road.
  • Restrooms and parking: Open through September 30th, 8:00 am – dusk.

Scenic Environment

The beautiful nature setting around Dixie Lake provides a calming atmosphere.

  • There’s a lot of open space to roam around the park.
  • Be mindful that the ground can be uneven in some areas.
  • As you can see on the slideshow above, the hiking trail is covered by trees making it a calming walk.
  • There are some tables by the lake. These are great spots to sit, eat, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake and trees.

Sensory and Behavioral Considerations

Below are some things to consider, but keep in mind that it is not limited to these. 

  • Sensory overload: During busy periods when the pool, playground, pavilion, and baseball fields have many visitors, it can become overwhelming.
    • Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
  • Supervision: Close supervision is needed near the lake as the ground can be wet, and the dock is not steady at all.
  • Prepare for the visit by Showing pictures of the park and discussing the activities you plan to do.
  • Explore freely: The great thing about this park is that you can go from one station to the next and there’s no pressure to rush anywhere.
  • Bring behavioral tools and sensory items or activities that have been shown to be successful in the past.

Conclusion

Hanofee Memorial Park is a family-friendly destination with diverse recreational options. By planning and utilizing the park’s amenities thoughtfully, families with children with autism can enjoy a fulfilling and enjoyable visit.

For more information, visit the Town of Liberty Parks & Recreation website.