Outdoors
Lakes, reservoirs and rivers near Hempstead for boating, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.
Good to know: Life jackets are required for children on most waters, and many lakes require an invasive-species inspection or a launch fee.
17 mi west · National Park Service
Spanning 27,000 acres from Sandy Hook in New Jersey to Breezy Point in New York City, the park is both the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, and the gateway to the National Park Service for millions of visitors every year.
19 mi north · Fish and Wildlife Service
The Congressman Lester Wolff Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge was donated to the Service by the Town of Oyster Bay in 1968 as a habitat for migratory birds, particularly wintering waterfowl.
23 mi west · National Park Service
This campground boasts a spectacular view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the longest vehicle suspension span in the United States. When it opened in 1964, it was the longest span in the world for 17 years.
Map of 16 places loads as you scroll.
Spanning 27,000 acres from Sandy Hook in New Jersey to Breezy Point in New York City, the park is both the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, and the gateway to the National Park Service for millions of visitors every year.
The Congressman Lester Wolff Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge was donated to the Service by the Town of Oyster Bay in 1968 as a habitat for migratory birds, particularly wintering waterfowl.
This campground boasts a spectacular view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the longest vehicle suspension span in the United States. When it opened in 1964, it was the longest span in the world for 17 years.
These 12 sites preserve more than 400 years of American history! We invite you to explore the past and investigate its relevance in our lives today.
A gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States "Liberty Enlightening the World" is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. It was dedicated by President Grover Cleveland on October 28, 1886.
Welcome to Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook Unit! There are a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities available at the park including history tours, living history demonstrations, hiking, birding, kayaking, camping,…
Immerse yourself in an enchanting collage of coastal life and history. Rhythmic waves, high dunes, ancient maritime forests, historic landmarks and glimpses of wildlife, Fire Island has been a special place for diverse plants, animals and…
Established in 1947, Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge protects 2,550 acres on the south shore of Long Island.
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge manages over 6,000 acres in Sussex County, New Jersey and Orange County, New York. We strive to manage quality habitat for wildlife while providing outdoor recreation for the public.
Hop Brook Lake Recreation Area is located within the towns of Middlebury, Naugatuck and Waterbury, Connecticut. Its 536 acres provide excellent recreation opportunities and a chance to escape from the growing suburbia surrounding the park.
The Delaware River, the largest free-flowing river in the eastern United States, runs past forests, farmlands and villages. It also links some of the most densely populated regions in America.
Northfield Brook Lake Group Shelters are located along a small scenic lake in the Naugatuck Valley of west-central Connecticut.
The Alosa Campsites are boat-in only sites located on the west (Pennsylvanian) shore of the Delaware River near Bushkill, Pennsylvania. The side of the river with the campsites will be on your right while traveling downstream.
West Thompson Lake Campground is located near the wooded shoreline of its namesake lake in northeastern Connecticut. The natural setting surrounding West Thompson Lake can be enjoyed year round.
Located at Blue Marsh Lake northwest of Reading, Pennsylvania, three group picnic shelters are available for reservations within the Dry Brooks Day Use Area.
Westville Lake is situated on the Quinebaug River in the towns of Southbridge and Sturbridge, Massachusetts.
Distances are straight-line miles from downtown Hempstead. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
A local activity Short shared by Walk with Sinoj & Ann.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
A local activity video shared by CBS New York.
Watch on YouTube ↗
Gateway National Recreation Area (National Park Service), about 17 miles west of Hempstead as the crow flies. Next are Congressman Lester Wolff Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge (19 mi) and Camp Gateway - Staten Island (23 mi).
Based on Hempstead’s average highs, May–September. Conditions at higher elevations can be much cooler.
Federal agencies including National Park Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, Fish and Wildlife Service. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.