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Hempstead Lake State Park
There are three bodies of freshwater accessible for fishing (Hempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond). They are stocked with trout in the fall and you may target trout year-round. Other species present include largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, carp, and sunfish. On Hempstead Lake, the largest lake in Nassau County, you are permitted to launch cartop boats such as kayaks, canoes, and rowboats as well as inflatable boats that are certified by the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association. Trailers are not permitted.
Hempstead Lake State Park is a multiuse facility. Included are 18 tennis courts, 6 dedicated pickleball courts (with an additional 4 pickleball courts added to 2 hard surface tennis courts), children's playgrounds, basketball courts, softball field, bridle trails for horseback riding, biking and hiking trails, shaded picnic areas, a beautiful observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake, and a historic hand-carved wooden carousel. The Philip Scott Pavilion is available for large parties of up to 300 people and can be rented online or by phone through Reserve America. In addition to the Philip Scott Pavilion, Hempstead offers rental of the Carousel Party Room done in-house, by appointment. For a rental fee of $350 (weekends/holidays) or $300 (weekdays) for a three hour party, guests are also offered unlimited carousel rides during their event for up to 90 people.
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. The EERC currently offers 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 the EERC at HempsteadLakeEE@parks.ny.gov .
