Outdoors
Lakes, rivers and recreation areas near Hempstead where fishing is allowed, closest first.
Good to know: Anyone 16 or older generally needs a state fishing license; seasons, limits and special rules vary by water. New York license information ↗
15 mi west · National Park Service
There's no other campground in the world where a family can sleep under the stars, tour the Statue of Liberty, watch a Broadway musical and kayak in one of the world's premier bird migration sanctuaries-all in one trip.
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.
Map of 18 places loads as you scroll.
There's no other campground in the world where a family can sleep under the stars, tour the Statue of Liberty, watch a Broadway musical and kayak in one of the world's premier bird migration sanctuaries-all in one trip.
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.
The refuge, located in Islip on the south shore of Long Island, consists of 209 acres bordering the Great South Bay, and is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by Fire Island.
Target Rock National Wildlife Refuge was acquired in 1967 as a donation from the Eberstadt family, who maintained the land as a garden estate.
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.
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.
Established in 1954, the Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge protects a 187-acre peninsula on Noyack and Little Peconic Bays.
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.
With abundant wildlife, lush scenery and waterfront views, Indian Hollow Group Campground, located at the Knightville Dam and Reservoir, offers groups and clubs a recreational oasis.
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.
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 ↗
Camp Gateway- Brooklyn Ny (National Park Service), about 15 miles west of Hempstead as the crow flies. Next are Gateway National Recreation Area (17 mi) and Congressman Lester Wolff Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge (19 mi).
Yes, anglers 16 and older generally need a New York fishing license from the state wildlife agency. Rules, seasons and limits vary by water.
Federal agencies including National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, US Army Corps of Engineers. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.