Hempstead Lake State Park
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.
Location & Getting There
Hempstead Lake State Park is located in New York. The park’s coordinates are 40.6797, -73.6469. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: New York
- Coordinates: 40.6797, -73.6469
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
New York’s state park system spans glacier-carved Finger Lakes gorges, wild Adirondack backcountry, Hudson Valley cliffs, Long Island beaches, and Niagara Falls. Activities include hiking dramatic gorge trails, swimming at supervised beaches, fishing world-class trout streams, camping in old-growth forests, cross-country skiing, rock climbing the Shawangunk Ridge, and kayaking the Thousand Islands.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is peak for swimming and waterfalls. Fall brings world-class foliage peaking mid-to-late October. Spring delivers peak waterfall flow. Winter turns Adirondack parks into skiing paradises. Many gorge trails are closed November through May.
Visitor Tips
Parking fees range from $6 to $10. An Empire Pass ($80/year) covers all state parks. Camping through ReserveAmerica up to 9 months in advance. Popular gorge parks require parking reservations on peak weekends.
Explore More New York State Parks
Hempstead Lake State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New York. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New York guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
