Top 7 Lakes around Franklin Square
Best lakes around Franklin Square are primarily found within Hempstead Lake State Park, as the hamlet itself does not feature natural lakes. This 737-acre facility, located adjacent to Franklin Square, offers the largest freshwater lake in Nassau County, Hempstead Lake, along alongside McDonald Pond and South Pond. The park provides various recreational activities centered around these bodies of water. It serves as a significant natural landscape for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.
Best lakes around Franklin Square
- The most popular…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Joe Michaels Mile
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Eisenhower Park
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Hempstead Lake
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Little Neck Loop
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Hempstead Lake State Park
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Tips from the Community
almost exactly a 5K distance around the lake. beautiful, peaceful, and most importantly shaded
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Hempstead Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by scenic parkland. Covering over 100 acres, it’s a great spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. A nice trail encircles the lake, making it perfect for a run.
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Hempstead Lake State Park is a multi-use facility that has children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and paths for horseback riding, biking and hiking. There are also picnic areas and an observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake.
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Hempstead Lake is a tranquil freshwater lake surrounded by scenic parkland. Spanning over 100 acres, the lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by a nice walking trail, that serves as the perfect location for a stroll.
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A 930-acre oasis of open space and recreation in the heart of Nassau County, Eisenhower Park is one of the largest public spaces in the New York metropolitan area – larger, in fact, than Central Park. This park includes many ball fields, a lake, amphitheater, golf course, indoor pool, ice rink, etc.
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A beautiful stretch of bike path. It is named after Joseph Michaels (1941-1987), a health activist who used to live in Queens.
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Nice loop through a quiet, residential area at the very Northeast end of Queens. Great views of the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the main lakes located near Franklin Square?
The primary destination for lakes near Franklin Square is Hempstead Lake State Park, located in West Hempstead, adjacent to Franklin Square. This park features Hempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond.
What activities can I do at Hempstead Lake State Park?
Hempstead Lake State Park offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy fishing, car-top boating (kayaks, canoes, rowboats, inflatable boats) on Hempstead Lake, and explore various trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The park also has tennis courts, pickleball courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, and an Observation deck at Hempstead Lake.
Is fishing permitted in the lakes near Franklin Square?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the lakes within Hempstead Lake State Park, including Hempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond. These lakes are stocked with trout in the fall, and you can also find largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, carp, and sunfish. A New York State fishing license is required.
Are there family-friendly options around the lakes?
Absolutely. Hempstead Lake State Park is very family-friendly, offering children's playgrounds, picnic areas, and easy walking trails around the lakes. Hempstead Lake itself is surrounded by a scenic walking trail perfect for a family stroll. Additionally, Eisenhower Park, a large nearby park, also features a lake and extensive family amenities.
Are there any accessible viewpoints or trails?
Yes, the Observation deck at Hempstead Lake is wheelchair accessible and provides excellent views of the lake within Hempstead Lake State Park.
What kind of trails are available for cycling near the lakes?
You'll find various cycling opportunities. The Joe Michaels Mile is a beautiful stretch of bike path. For more extensive rides, you can explore routes like the 'Hempstead Lake and Jones Beach Loop' or 'Garden City Park to Sands Point via Port Washington'. You can find more road cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Franklin Square guide.
Are there running trails around the lakes?
Yes, Hempstead Lake State Park offers several running trails. A popular option is the 'Hempstead Lake Bridle Trail'. You can find more running routes and details in the Running Trails around Franklin Square guide.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
Hempstead Lake State Park generally allows leashed dogs on trails and in designated areas. It's always best to check specific park regulations upon arrival for any restrictions.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for boating and picnicking, while winter can be scenic for walks, though some activities may be limited by weather conditions.
What makes Hempstead Lake a popular spot?
Hempstead Lake is appreciated for its tranquil freshwater setting, surrounded by scenic parkland. Visitors enjoy the opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as the pleasant walking trail that encircles the lake, providing a peaceful environment for a stroll or run.
Are there any other parks with lakes nearby?
Yes, Eisenhower Park, a large public space in Nassau County, also features a lake along with numerous recreational facilities like ball fields, an amphitheater, and a golf course.
What should I bring for a lake walk or visit?
For a comfortable visit, consider bringing appropriate footwear for walking or hiking, water, snacks, and sun protection. If you plan to fish, remember your New York State fishing license. For boating, ensure you have your car-top boat and necessary safety gear.
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