Hempstead Lake State Park
00 review880 Lake Drive - Field #1, West Hempstead, New York, 11552, United States
Hempstead Lake State Park
$300.00 - $350.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The Philip Scott Pavilion can be rented online or by phone for $350 on weekends/holidays and $300 on weekdays for three hours. Unlimited carousel rides for up to 90 people are included.
About this campground
Discover your perfect outdoor escape at Hempstead Lake State Park, where adventure meets tranquility across a sprawling recreational paradise. Challenge yourself on 18 pristine tennis courts or join the pickleball revolution on six dedicated courts. Wander through sun-dappled picnic groves, explore winding bridle trails on horseback, or pedal along scenic biking paths that reveal new vistas at every turn. Children's eyes light up at the sight of our enchanting hand-carved wooden carousel, while anglers cast their lines into three shimmering freshwater lakes teeming with fish. Whether you're seeking heart-pumping activity or peaceful waterside reflection, this diverse outdoor playground offers something special for every member of your family.
Hempstead Lake State Park does not have designated campsites or camping facilities.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time aboard our treasured hand-carved wooden carousel, where generations of families have created lasting memories on painted horses that dance to nostalgic melodies. This beloved centerpiece stands as a testament to craftsmanship and community heritage, drawing visitors who appreciate both its artistic beauty and historical significance. Beyond entertainment, Hempstead Lake State Park has evolved into a vital educational resource, hosting innovative environmental programs that inspire the next generation of nature stewards. The park also serves as a living classroom for storm resiliency, demonstrating how natural spaces can protect and sustain communities through thoughtful conservation and management.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of seasonal beauty at Hempstead Lake, where each time of year paints the landscape in stunning new colors. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and blooming wildflowers, creating ideal conditions for hiking and picnicking. Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days perfect for water activities and evening tennis matches. Fall transforms the park into a golden tapestry of changing leaves, while crisp air invigorates morning trail rides. Throughout the camping season, you'll find stretches of clear skies and comfortable temperatures that make outdoor adventures irresistible. Our detailed weather tracking helps you plan your visit during those perfect weeks of dry, moderate conditions that make memories shine.
ElevationThe park's gently rolling terrain creates an accessible outdoor experience for visitors of all abilities, with level paths perfect for leisurely strolls and easy bike rides throughout the grounds.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a vibrant aquatic ecosystem where three pristine freshwater bodies create a haven for both wildlife and recreation enthusiasts. Watch elegant swans glide across mirror-like surfaces while mallards dabble in the shallows and Canadian geese honk their arrival overhead. Patient observers might spot turtles sunning on fallen logs or catch glimpses of small mammals darting through the diverse vegetation that frames these waters. Each season brings fresh stocks of fighting trout to join the resident populations of feisty bass, pickerel, perch, carp, and sunfish, creating an angler's paradise. The surrounding landscape bursts with native plants and trees that provide crucial habitat while painting an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Geological RegionNestled within Nassau County's remarkable freshwater ecosystem, the park centers around three distinct aquatic jewels: Hempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond. Hempstead Lake claims the title of Nassau County's largest lake, its expansive waters welcoming paddlers in kayaks, canoes, and rowboats to explore hidden coves and peaceful inlets. These interconnected waterways support a thriving fish community including prized largemouth bass, acrobatic chain pickerel, abundant yellow perch, hefty carp, and colorful sunfish. The lakes' calm waters and cartop-only boat policy create an intimate paddling experience where the splash of your oar and call of waterfowl provide the soundtrack to your adventure. Please note that boat trailers are not permitted, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for all visitors.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park is inclusive and features a wheelchair ramp and designated lookout points, as highlighted by a user review: 'Yes, new wheelchair ramp and a lookout points have been added!'
Sites SizeThe park does not have designated campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe park does not have campsites, so privacy levels are not applicable.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNull
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No group camping facilities are available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNull
Open and Closed SeasonNull
Reservation PlatformsReservations for the Pavilion can be made online or by phone through Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Hempstead Lake State Park is a hub for a wide array of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, fishing in three well-stocked freshwater bodies, and horseback riding on bridle trails. The park also facilitates pickleball, basketball, softball, and tennis. Unique features include a historic hand-carved wooden carousel, an environmental education center, and a scenic observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake. Boating with kayaks, canoes, and rowboats is allowed on the lake. Several user reviews highlight the park's cleanliness and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Hiking
The park offers hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. These trails provide scenic views and opportunities to explore the natural habitat around the lake, as noted by users: 'Gr8 paths all around the Lake . . . opposite side natural habitat, plenty small wildlife and plenty of Swans, Mallards, Canadian Geese seen!'Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Hempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond. The lakes are stocked with trout in the fall, and year-round fishing is permitted for species like largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, carp, and sunfish. According to a user review: 'Very nice paddling (lake is popular for fishing, and we saw lots of turtles). Fishermen: Please pick up your tackle and discarded monofilament line. It's harmful to wildlife.'Biking
The park includes biking trails suitable for recreational cycling.Boating
Boating is allowed on Hempstead Lake, with kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and inflatable boats certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. However, trailers are not permitted.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with frequent sightings of swans, mallards, Canadian geese, and other small animals. A user noted: 'Plenty small wildlife and plenty of Swans, Mallards, Canadian Geese seen!'Cultural and Educational Programs
The Environmental Education and Resiliency Center offers hands-on learning programs focused on environmental management and storm resiliency. Public programs can be registered online, while school and scout programs are available by email.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is mentioned as a winter recreational option at the park.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are permitted on Hempstead Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsNull
Active alertsField 1 playground will be closed through May 17, 2024.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the available materials.
Proximity to water featuresHempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond are accessible for fishing and boating.
Common complaintsNull
HostNull
Campground Map
880 Lake Drive - Field #1, West Hempstead, New York, 11552, United States
Driving directionsPlease use the address provided for GPS driving directions or call the park directly.
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Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Hempstead Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The park receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its cleanliness, variety of activities, and inclusivity. Many users admire its well-maintained infrastructure and the diversity of wildlife.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Cleanliness of the park and bathrooms, ample parking, scenic and well-maintained trails, wildlife viewing, and the addition of inclusivity features like wheelchair ramps were frequently praised.
Common Concerns
One review criticized service-related issues in a dining context, though this is likely unrelated to the campground itself.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend exploring the trails, fishing, bringing a dog for a walk, and utilizing the park's boating facilities. For large gatherings, renting the Philip Scott Pavilion is suggested.
Seasonal Insights
While seasons were not explicitly discussed in the reviews, the availability of cross-country skiing implies winter usage, and trails, fishing, and boating suggest popularity in warmer months.
Camper Quotes
1. '2nd time to visit! Walk 3-5 miles a daily wherever I am! Everythg at your fingertips!' 2. 'Very nice paddling (lake is popular for fishing, and we saw lots of turtles).' 3. 'Wonderful park for...
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Site-Specific Reviews
There are no designated campsites, so site-specific reviews are not applicable.
Accessibility Features
Positive feedback was provided for accessibility features, including wheelchair ramps and lookout points: 'Yes, new wheelchair ramp and a lookout points have been added!'
Pet-Friendly Features
The park allows dogs on a leash not exceeding six feet; however, they are not permitted in buildings, camping, bathing, or picnic areas. A user mentioned walking dogs as a popular activity.
Last updated August 10, 2025