Hempstead Lake State Park
1000 Lake Drive
West Hempstead, NY 11552
- General Information: (516) 766-1029
There are three ponds that are accessible for fishing. On Hempstead Lake, the largest lake in Nassau County, you are permitted to use cartop and inflatable boats (certified by the National Marine Manufacturer's Association). McDonald Pond, South Pond, and Hempstead Lake are stocked with trout in the fall and you may target trout year-round. Other species present include largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bullhead catfish, black crappie, yellow perch, carp, and sunfish.
Environmental Education and Resiliency Center
The Environmental Education and Resiliency Center is a unique, hands-on learning center focused on environmental management and storm resiliency. The goal is to connect the community with the natural environment by providing outreach and educational programming. The Center will also be used for storm response purposes. The Hempstead Lake Dam will be monitored from the center and the data tracked to assist in storm preparation and response.
We currently offer educational programming for scouts, schools, and the public. To register for public programs you can visit our Eventbrite page. If you would like to book a school or scout program you can email us at HempsteadLakeEE@parks.ny.gov
Pavilion Information
Hempstead Lake has one pavilion, ranging in price from $200 on a weekday to $250 on a weekend or holiday. It can accommodate up to 300 people. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com. Find out more on picnic pavilion reservations and see photos of the Philip Scott Pavilion.
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are always to be supervised and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools, and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Hours of Operation
- Open year-round. Sunrise to Sunset.
- Environmental Education and Resiliency Center is open 7 days a week from 9am-5pm, Phone number: 516-766-1029, Email: HempsteadLakeEE@parks.ny.gov
- Fishing: Available year-round.
Valid NY State fishing license required for patrons 16 yrs. or older. - Model Boat Permit: Sold in park office. Valid NAMBA membership card must be presented. (Suspended for 2022 due to construction)
- Picnicking: Year-round, sunrise to sunset. Permit required for groups of 50 or more. No fee for permit.
- Carousel and Gift Shop: 4/2 - 10/10, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
4/2 - 5/22: 12pm-6pm
5/28- 9/5: 12pm 7pm
9/10 - 10/10: 12pm-6pm
Carousel Pavilion Building party room rentals for: Birthday parties, weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, etc. Contact Park Office: (516) 766-1029.
Fees & Rates
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. For fees not listed or to verify information, please contact the park directly.
The easy-to-use Empire Pass card is $80- and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. Purchase online or contact your favorite park for more information. Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass.
- Vehicle Entrance Fee
- Cars $8
Non-Profit Buses (By permit only) $35
Commercial Buses (By permit only) $75
2022 Fee Collected:Mon-Fri, 8:00 am - 4:00 pmWeekends/ Holidays, 7:00 am - 6:00 pmWeekend/Holiday collections start 4/2 until 5/22, then again from 9/10 until 10/10Daily collections start 5/28 until 9/5 - Carousel
$2 per ride, 4/2 - 10/10, weekends & holidays
- Permits
- Model Boat Permit: (Suspended for 2022 due to construction)
$40
Maps
New! Download this park's digital map to your iOS Apple and Android device.
Saturday, May 21, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, May 22, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, May 22, 2022 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Friday, May 27, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Friday, May 27, 2022 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Amenities Information
- Amenities
- Biking
- Boat Launches
- Equestrian Trails
- Fishing (Accessible)
- Grills
- Hiking
- Pavilions and Shelter Rentals
- Playgrounds (Accessible)
- Playing Fields
- Snowshoeing/X-Country Skiing
- Tennis (Accessible)