Best lakes around Oceanside are found in a region characterized by its coastal proximity and diverse natural landscapes. The area features a mix of urban lakes, regional parks, and significant ecological reserves. These bodies of water contribute to the local environment, supporting various ecosystems and offering recreational opportunities. The region's geography includes marshlands, riparian habitats, and volcanic terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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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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Hendrickson Park is a beautiful neighborhood park in Valley Stream. There are several walking and running paths that encircle Valley Stream Pond. The park also has some picnic tables, basketball courts and restrooms.
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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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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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For public recreation, Eisenhower Park, which includes a lake, offers extensive facilities like ball fields, an amphitheater, and a golf course. Hempstead Lake is popular for fishing, boating, and picnicking, with a walking trail. Hempstead Lake State Park provides playgrounds, courts, and paths for various activities.
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly amenities. Hempstead Lake State Park features children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and picnic areas. Eisenhower Park is a large facility with ball fields and an amphitheater, suitable for family outings. Additionally, Hendrickson Park has walking paths, picnic tables, and basketball courts.
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is popular, with routes like the 'Hempstead Lake State Park North Loop' and 'Hempstead Lake loop from Lakeview' available. Cycling is also an option, with routes such as 'Jones Beach State Park – Jones Beach State Park loop from Point Lookout'. For more details on hiking, visit the Hiking around Oceanside guide, and for cycling, see the Cycling around Oceanside guide.
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails. The 'Hempstead Lake State Park North Loop' and 'Hempstead Lake loop from Lakeview' are both rated as easy. You can find more easy hiking options in the Easy hikes around Oceanside guide.
Hempstead Lake is a great spot for fishing. It spans over 100 acres and offers opportunities for anglers. Additionally, Eisenhower Park also includes a lake where fishing may be permitted.
Around the lakes, you can find scenic parkland and forest areas. Hempstead Lake is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and Observation deck at Hempstead Lake provides a dedicated spot to take in views of the lake and its surroundings.
Yes, Hempstead Lake features a nice walking trail that encircles the lake, perfect for a stroll or a run. Hendrickson Park also offers several walking and running paths around Valley Stream Pond.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil freshwater lakes and scenic parkland. Many enjoy the opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The walking trails, like the one around Hempstead Lake, are often highlighted for being beautiful, peaceful, and shaded, making them ideal for outdoor recreation.
The Observation deck at Hempstead Lake is noted as being wheelchair accessible, providing a way for everyone to enjoy the views of the lake.
Yes, several locations offer amenities. Hempstead Lake State Park has picnic areas. Hendrickson Park provides picnic tables and restrooms. Eisenhower Park, being a large facility, also offers extensive amenities including an indoor pool and ice rink.
Hempstead Lake is a tranquil freshwater lake that offers opportunities for boating, making it a great choice for those looking to get out on the water.


Still not found your perfect lake around Oceanside? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.