This state park is a gem for the context that it is in. The park is extremely large, has multiple gigantic lakes and ponds, great hiking trails and you can even kayak here. These are uncommon for this area in Nassau County. The park entrance is in West Hempstead, but also borders Rockville Centre, Lakeview, and Hempstead. The park is a bit deceptive in the way that the roads around it can make it seem smaller than it is. The northern end of the park is accessible by street parking for free. There is a lake in that area with beautiful wide Hiking trails that are pretty long and wind around the lake. These trails are also used by the local horseback riding service down the road on Eagle Ave. Trail rides are open to the public there.
The lake across the street from the main entrances is the largest and offers the best view currently. This is the area where small boats are allowed. Although for kayakers a paid permit is required.
A great feature of this lake is that it is possible to hike around the entire lake. The edges of the have many great beaches too. Swimming is not allowed but it is common to see people swimming anyway.
The south end of the park has some trails too and is popular with dog owners. There is a bridge there to cross over peninsula blvd from the Rockville Centre. If you park on the street on that side you can walk in for free. Once in there is a square shallow pond that is stocked with fish and fishing is allowed there. Keep going to your left and there is a large lake with a beautiful view. On the west end of the park along the dog walk paths there is even another beautiful pond with lily pads. Around the parking areas there are outdoor BBQs for the public where many families celebrate holidays together.
All of these features are inland for Long Island, near trains, the highways, major shopping districts, and athletic fields.
Hempstead Lake has beauty in a convenient setting.
Update: New York State has constructed a kayak launch on the lake and began building a fishing pier on the lake.
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