Are dogs allowed on Hempstead Lake State Park?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Hempstead Lake State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Hempstead Lake State Park?

No, Hempstead Lake State Park does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Hempstead Lake State Park?

Hempstead Lake State Park is rated moderate. It is 3.1 miles long with 282 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Hempstead Lake State Park?

Hempstead Lake State Park is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See New York trail conditions

ModerateLoop

New York

Hempstead Lake State Park

West Hempstead, New York

3.1 mi

Distance

282 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 4m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Hempstead Lake State Park trail is a scenic 3.1-mile loop located in West Hempstead, New York. With a moderate elevation gain of 282 feet, the trail meanders through a predominantly wooded area. Given its relatively short distance and loop configuration, the trail offers a manageable hike suitable for moderate-level hikers. As it travels through a state park, the trail provides a natural getaway with opportunities for bird watching and appreciating local flora.

From Wikipedia

Hempstead Lake State Park is a 737-acre (2.98 km2) state park located in Nassau County, New York in the United States. The park is located in West Hempstead and is one of three state parks within the Town of Hempstead. There is a quick-access entrance at exit 18 from the Southern State Parkway. The park contains the largest freshwater lake in Nassau County.

Source: Wikipedia — text licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify trail conditions and seasonal closures with the managing agency before you go.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gain

Elevation Profile

Min:8 ft

Max:21 ft

86 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

forest setting

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.