Bethpage State Park
Home to the legendary Bethpage Black, this public park offers championship golf and family recreation on Long Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tee times
Bethpage State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tee times
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the legendary Bethpage Black, this public park offers championship golf and family recreation on Long Island.
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Tee times, especially for Bethpage Black, go fast! Be online right when they become available.
🚗 Parking Fee Info
Parking is $8, but free with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bethpage Black Course
Bethpage State Park
The 'People's Country Club's' most iconic and challenging course, a former U.S. Open venue. Prepare for a true test of golf.
Ryder Cup Host
Bethpage State Park
Experience the thrill of a venue that has hosted major championships like the Ryder Cup and U.S. Open. Feel the history.
Family Fun & Trails
Bethpage State Park
Beyond golf, enjoy playgrounds and scenic hiking trails through wooded areas, offering a refreshing natural escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mastering Bethpage Tee Times
Beyond the Black Course
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Tee times, especially for Bethpage Black, go fast! Be online right when they become available.
🚗 Parking Fee Info
Parking is $8, but free with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
👟 Wear Proper Golf Shoes
Spikes are not allowed on the courses. Opt for soft spikes or golf shoes without metal spikes.
📱 Use the NY State Parks App
Check for park alerts, trail maps, and potentially booking information.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Tee times, especially for Bethpage Black, go fast! Be online right when they become available.
🚗 Parking Fee Info
Parking is $8, but free with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
👟 Wear Proper Golf Shoes
Spikes are not allowed on the courses. Opt for soft spikes or golf shoes without metal spikes.
📱 Use the NY State Parks App
Check for park alerts, trail maps, and potentially booking information.
🌳 Explore Beyond Golf
Don't miss the playgrounds and hiking trails for a family-friendly or nature-focused experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bethpage State Park's challenging golf courses, particularly the iconic Black Course, and its status as a premier public golf destination. The affordability and historical significance of hosting major championships are major draws. However, securing tee times, especially for the Black Course, is notoriously difficult and requires significant planning and persistence.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bethpage State Park is located on Long Island, New York. It's accessible by car via major parkways like the Southern State Parkway. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there are large parking lots available. The parking fee is typically $8, but this can be waived with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
Yes, it's about an hour's drive from Manhattan, depending on traffic. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car, though parking is usually more straightforward.
From the west, take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 43A (Hicksville Road). Head north on Hicksville Road to Plainview Road, then turn right and follow signs for Bethpage State Park.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services to Bethpage State Park. It's best to plan your own transportation via car or taxi/rideshare.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tee times are highly sought after, especially for the Black Course. They are typically released online a week in advance and can be booked through the New York State Parks reservation system. Be ready right when they go live, as they sell out quickly.
Green fees vary by course and residency status (New York State residents often pay less). The Black Course is generally the most expensive, while the Green and Yellow courses are more affordable. Check the official NY State Parks website for current pricing.
It is extremely difficult to play Bethpage Black without a pre-booked tee time. Walk-on opportunities are rare and usually involve very long waits.
The park itself is generally open from dawn to dusk. The golf courses have specific operating hours that vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on course hours.
If you are not golfing, there is no entry fee to access the park's grounds, playgrounds, or hiking trails. Parking fees apply.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
The Bethpage Black Course is renowned for its extreme difficulty, often described as one of the toughest public courses in the United States. It features narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging green complexes.
Besides the Black Course, Bethpage offers the Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow courses. Each provides a unique golfing experience and is generally more accessible for booking than the Black.
Yes, Bethpage State Park has pro shops at each course, offering equipment rentals, merchandise, and snacks. There are also dining facilities available.
Club rentals are available at the pro shops for all courses. It's advisable to inquire about availability and pricing when booking your tee time.
Bethpage has a strict dress code. Collared shirts and appropriate golf shorts or slacks are required. Denim, t-shirts, and athletic shorts are generally not permitted.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Recreation
Yes, Bethpage State Park features several hiking trails that wind through wooded areas, offering a pleasant natural experience away from the golf courses.
Absolutely! Beyond the golf, the park has large playgrounds that are a hit with children, making it a great destination for families.
You can expect lush green fairways, rolling hills, and a significant amount of mature trees, giving it a beautiful, natural feel.
Yes, picnic areas are available within the park, providing a lovely spot to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Yes, Bethpage State Park is an excellent destination for a day trip, offering a variety of activities from challenging golf to family-friendly recreation and nature walks.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit