Is there some kind of star gazing pass to allow people in the park at night? If not, was something like that available in the past?

Heckscher State park does not allow any night visitors into the park. However, a star gazing permit does exist. I am uncertain of which state parks accept the permit, but I would recommend to try calling Sunken Meadow and Jones Beach, as those two parks seem likely to allow star gazers entry after dark

I have no idea Sorry

Question for both past and now as not being verified protaining to the star gazing.sorry