New York
Hempstead Lake State Park
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026
Long Island’s Urban Oasis
Hempstead Lake State Park offers 737 acres of natural refuge in Nassau County, just 30 minutes from Manhattan. Multiple lakes, extensive trails, and historic significance make this a unique NYC-area escape.
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Hempstead Lake: bass, pickerel, perch (NY license required) |
| Hiking/Biking | 5+ miles of trails |
| Tennis | 20 courts |
| Carousel | Historic Murphy Carousel (seasonal) |
| Playground | Large modern playground |
No Swimming or Camping
This is a day-use only park. No swimming is permitted. For camping near NYC, try Wildwood State Park on Long Island.
History
Once a reservoir system for Brooklyn, the historic pump stations and old NYC waterworks make for interesting exploration.
Can I swim in the lake?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Hempstead Lake. Jones Beach is the closest state park with swimming.
Last updated: February 20, 2026
