Green Lakes State Park New York
Discover the magical, turquoise-green glacial lakes and serene wooded trails of Green Lakes State Park in New York.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-aerial-of-golf-course-GREENLAKESSP0724-dd0cdb835ca441cca40d1e125e3e957b.jpg&w=3840&q=70)
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Green Lakes State Park New York
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magical, turquoise-green glacial lakes and serene wooded trails of Green Lakes State Park in New York.
"The lake it’s absolutely gorgeous and magical. It’s green water takes your breath away."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.
🛶 Rent, Don't Bring Boats
Outside kayaks/canoes are not permitted to protect the lakes. Rent from the park for a unique experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Meromictic Lakes
Green Lake & Round Lake
Witness the stunning, otherworldly turquoise-green waters of these rare, undisturbed glacial lakes.
+1
Scenic Hiking Trails
Green Lake Trail / Round Lake Trail
Explore peaceful wooded paths offering breathtaking views of the unique lakes. A 3-mile loop is popular.
+1
Kayaking & Boating
Green Lake
Glide across the crystal-clear waters in a rented kayak for a serene perspective of the park's beauty.
18-Hole Golf Course
Adjacent to the lakes
Enjoy a round of golf on a beautifully designed course set amidst the park's natural splendor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Those Turquoise Waters
Park Entry & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.
🛶 Rent, Don't Bring Boats
Outside kayaks/canoes are not permitted to protect the lakes. Rent from the park for a unique experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but walking shoes are recommended for exploring the park.
📸 Capture the Color
The unique green hue is best seen in natural light. Midday can be intense, consider morning or late afternoon.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.
🛶 Rent, Don't Bring Boats
Outside kayaks/canoes are not permitted to protect the lakes. Rent from the park for a unique experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but walking shoes are recommended for exploring the park.
📸 Capture the Color
The unique green hue is best seen in natural light. Midday can be intense, consider morning or late afternoon.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. There are designated picnic areas, and it's a great way to save money.
🏕️ Book Camping in Advance
Campsites are popular and can book up months ahead, especially for full hook-up sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Green Lakes State Park for its breathtakingly beautiful and unique turquoise-green lakes, describing them as magical and otherworldly. The park is well-maintained with excellent facilities, scenic trails, and enjoyable activities like kayaking and swimming. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some guests noted noise from early morning landscaping as a minor detractor.
"This is the most beautiful, peaceful camp ground we had stayed in a while. The lake it’s absolutely gorgeous and magical. It’s green water takes your breath away. They have a little beach area that is super fun and spacious. They have a great high jump area that is totally safe and just for jumping or diving so you get to really let go and have fun. The kayak ride it’s stunning and truly unique. Definitely a must try and it’s not expensive at all, it’s $40 per 2 hours not bad at all. The walk around the lake it’s a must too. It’s not too long and full of fun and beautiful breath taking spots to rest. We definitely recommend visiting green lakes state park. We don’t have kids but it’s kids friendly and there were lots of kids they were having so much fun. The only thing we didn’t love was that on the morning of us leaving the park staff came at 9:30 am to do the landscape and to cut the grass and the machines were very loud and took away our peace. I think they could have done that after 11 am which is check out time but other then that it’s definitely a magical place to visit with your partner or family ☀️❤️"
Maiara Rodrigues
"Green Lakes was impeccably maintained, the trails were beautiful and facilities were amazing compared to many other parks i have been to. Everything seemed very new and upbeat.
Excellent spot for a run, the water is so beautiful in color. There was a swimming beach that was getting "groomed" flat early in the morning. Definitely a spot to hang out with the family. Nearby kids playgrounds looked very nice and new. Plenty of activities for a family or small group"
Will Croasdale
"We spent the first three days of our trip at Green Lakes State Park and had a wonderful time. The blue-green water is absolutely stunning and makes for a beautiful backdrop whether you’re walking, biking, or just relaxing by the shore. We enjoyed exploring the hiking and biking trails with our dog, and even rented kayaks to get out on the lake — such a peaceful way to take in the scenery.
The campground was well-kept, and it was the perfect spot to kick off our trip. We’d definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a mix of outdoor activities and incredible views."
Sarah Campbell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Green Lakes State Park is approximately a 4 to 5-hour drive from New York City, making it a feasible weekend getaway.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Green Lakes State Park. Public transportation options are limited.
Yes, Clark Reservation State Park is a nearby alternative offering a different landscape. The Erie Canal also runs close to Green Lakes.
Yes, you can fly into Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), which is about a 20-30 minute drive from the park.
The park is located at 7900 Green Lakes Rd, Fayetteville, NY. GPS navigation is recommended for precise directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The day-use fee is typically $10 per vehicle. This fee grants access to the park's amenities and trails.
Green Lakes State Park is generally open from 7 AM until sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official New York State Parks website for the most current hours.
For day use, tickets are typically purchased upon arrival. However, for camping, advance reservations are highly recommended and often required.
Yes, to protect the sensitive meromictic lakes, outside canoes, kayaks, and boats are not permitted. You must rent them from the park.
The day-use fee generally covers access to the park's beaches, trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Kayak rentals are separate.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking, swimming at the beach, kayaking, picnicking, and golfing. The park also offers camping.
Yes, there is a designated swimming beach area at Green Lakes State Park. The water is known for its clarity.
Absolutely! Kayak rentals are available at the park, offering a fantastic way to experience the unique lakes.
Dogs are generally allowed in New York State Parks on a leash, but may have restrictions in certain areas like beaches or buildings. It's best to confirm current park regulations.
The Green Lake Trail is a popular loop, approximately 3 miles long with moderate elevation gain, offering scenic views of the lakes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be a concession stand or small cafe, it's advisable to pack your own food or dine in nearby Fayetteville for more options.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a family or group outing.
The town of Fayetteville, located just outside the park, offers various restaurants and cafes. Syracuse also has a wide array of dining choices.
Yes, the campground typically has a camp store that sells essentials like ice, firewood, and snacks.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy within the park's picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful colors for photographing the lakes.
The lakes are meromictic, meaning their layers don't mix, preserving exceptional clarity and a striking turquoise-green color.
Drone usage is subject to New York State Park regulations. It's essential to check the official park guidelines for any restrictions.
The trails around both Green Lake and Round Lake offer numerous scenic overlooks. The beach area also provides great perspectives.
Yes, the golf course is part of the park's landscape and can be photographed, though access may be restricted to golfers during play.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas, making for a relaxed and budget-friendly family outing. While kayaking is available, ensure children are supervised closely on the water. The campground also offers family-friendly amenities, making it a great option for a longer stay.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1While kayak rentals have a cost, they are generally affordable. For overnight stays, camping is a more budget-friendly option than hotels, with sites ranging from $18-$30 per night.
Exploring the hiking trails is free once you've paid the entrance fee, offering hours of enjoyment without additional cost. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The park's natural beauty, especially the striking water color, makes it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers. +1Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially during warmer months. Respecting the park's delicate ecosystem by staying on marked trails and following Leave No Trace principles is crucial for preserving its beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science Behind the Stunning Green Waters
+2This lack of mixing also means that the deeper waters are anoxic (lacking oxygen), which prevents the decomposition of organic matter and further contributes to the pristine condition of the lakes. Because of this delicate ecosystem, no outside boats, kayaks, or canoes are permitted to prevent the introduction of invasive species or disruption of the water layers. Visitors must rent equipment from the park to enjoy time on the water.
The geological history of the area, shaped by glaciers, is responsible for the formation of these kettle lakes. The surrounding forests and the unique water chemistry combine to create an almost otherworldly landscape that draws visitors seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
+1Exploring Green Lakes: Trails and Activities
+1 These trails wind through wooded areas, providing shade and a peaceful atmosphere, making them ideal for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike. For those who want to get out on the water, kayak rentals are available and highly recommended. Paddling across the clear, green surface offers a unique perspective of the park's serene environment.
+1 Swimming is also permitted at the designated beach area, providing a refreshing way to cool off during warmer months. Beyond the lakes, Green Lakes State Park also features an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, offering a different kind of recreational activity amidst the park's scenic surroundings.
For families, there are playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a versatile destination for a day trip or a longer stay. Camping at Green Lakes State Park
The campground is equipped with amenities such as playgrounds, volleyball courts, and a camp store selling essentials like ice and firewood.
The proximity to the park's main attractions, like the lakes and trails, makes camping here a convenient and immersive way to enjoy Green Lakes. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit