A Landscape Forged by Ice: The Geography of Smithtown, NY

The Town of Smithtown, located on the North Shore of Long Island in Suffolk County, possesses a diverse and dynamic geography. Covering over 82 square miles of land, its landscape is a product of the last Ice Age, defined by rolling hills, vital river systems, and direct access to the Long Island Sound.

Topography: The Harbor Hill Moraine

The defining topographical feature of Smithtown is the Harbor Hill Moraine. This ridge of rocky, terminal hills was deposited by the receding Wisconsin Glacier approximately 20,000 years ago.

• Hilly North Shore: The northern half of the town, including areas near the Sound, is characterized by this moraine. The result is a distinct, hilly, and undulating terrain that contrasts sharply with the flatter outwash plains found further south on Long Island.
• Soil Composition: The soil in the northern portion is a dense mixture of rocks, sand, and gravel, reflecting its glacial origins.

Waterways and the Nissequogue River

Smithtown's hydrography is a significant part of its geographical identity, providing scenic beauty and crucial natural resources.

• Long Island Sound: The town borders the Long Island Sound to the north, creating a dramatic, rocky shoreline and important coastal resources like Smithtown Bay.
• The Nissequogue River: This is one of the most prominent natural features of the town, flowing south to north and forming a large portion of Smithtown's western boundary. As a major recreational river, it is highly valued for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Stony Brook Harbor: Located on the eastern side of the town's northern boundary, Stony Brook Harbor is an important estuary and harbor for boating and marine activities.

Parks and Natural Preserves

The town has wisely preserved large tracts of land, maintaining its wooded, semi-rural character in many areas. These parks are integral to the area's geography.

• Caleb Smith State Park Preserve: Located along the Nissequogue River, this preserve offers miles of trails and preserved woodlands and is a popular spot for fly-fishing and nature observation.
• Blydenburgh County Park: Situated on the headwaters of the Nissequogue River, this park features a large pond, extensive trails, and camping facilities, highlighting the region's commitment to conserving its natural geography.

The rolling, wooded hills of the Harbor Hill Moraine, combined with the winding Nissequogue River, create a geographical tapestry that is central to the character and appeal of Smithtown.

The Population of Smithtown: An Established Long Island Profile

The Town of Smithtown, located on Long Island’s North Shore in Suffolk County, is characterized by a stable, established population with a high quality of life. Unlike some of the rapidly expanding communities across the nation, Smithtown's demographic profile reflects the steady, long-term residential appeal of this well-regarded region.

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the Town of Smithtown has a population of 117,801 residents. With a land area of over 82 square miles, the population density is around 1,400 people per square mile, reflecting a suburban environment that balances residential density with ample open space and natural preserves.

Consistent with many established areas on the North Shore of Long Island, the population of Smithtown has remained relatively stable over the past two decades. The town experienced its largest population growth during the mid-20th-century suburban boom. Today, the slight shifts in population are mainly due to natural cycles—such as children leaving the area after college and subsequent movement of younger families back into the community—rather than explosive, large-scale growth. This stability is a key characteristic that defines Smithtown's enduring appeal as a desirable, long-term residential choice in Suffolk County.