Green Lakes State Park Guide — Fishing, Hiking, and More 

Green Lakes State Park features 2 beautiful emerald-green lakes with numerous opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. It also boasts an impressive golf course, hiking trails, and campsites. Each year, almost 1 million visitors come to explore this captivating park in New York.

How To Get to Green Lakes State Park

Where Is Green Lakes State Park?

Green Lakes State Park is in Fayetteville, New York, east of Syracuse. The park spans nearly 2,000 acres and is home to 2 glacial lakes surrounded by upland forest. The park also features a gorge with steep slopes over 150 feet high and old-growth forest.

Green Lakes State Park Opening Hours and Seasons

The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. The beach and swimming area are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The facilities within the park have varying hours. It’s best to call ahead to check the facility hours to experience everything on your must-do list.

Nearest Airport to Green Lakes State Park

The closest major airport to the park is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), which is 15 miles from the park and about a 20-minute drive away. This airport offers nonstop flights to hundreds of domestic and international destinations, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Miami.

Many well-known airlines operate from this airport, including Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. Once you arrive at the airport, you are just a short ride from the park. You can rent a car or arrange a ride-share service to complete your journey to the park.

Driving to Green Lakes State Park

Visitors driving to Green Lakes State Park should take exit 3E from I-481. Follow East Genesee Street through Fayetteville and follow the signs to the park entrance. The entrance will be on the left side of the road.

Taking the Train to Green Lakes State Park

There is no train service directly to Green Lakes State Park, but there is a transportation option that can get you close. Amtrak offers service to Syracuse. From the station, it is about a 20-minute ride via a taxi or ride-share service to the park.

Taking the Bus to Green Lakes State Park

Taking the bus is an affordable and environmentally friendly way to travel. Greyhound offers bus service to Syracuse, New York, about 20 minutes from the park.

Getting Around Green Lakes State Park

The most convenient way to explore Green Lakes State Park is by a combination of walking and driving. Multiple parking areas are close to the beach with plenty of space for visitors.

Hot Tip:

Tourists can use an interactive park map to assist with planning their itineraries.

What To See and Do in Green Lakes State Park

There’s plenty to experience at this state park, from wildlife watching to hiking and golfing, providing something for every visitor to enjoy.

Birdwatching

The park boasts a variety of ecosystems, making it a perfect home for a diverse range of bird species. Some of the most commonly seen birds here include robins, thrushes, northern orioles, American goldfinches, and woodpeckers. The hiking trails offer excellent opportunities to observe the birdlife. The park provides a bird checklist for visitors to document the birds they see during their visit.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts visiting Green Lakes State Park are in for a treat. A nearby hatchery stocks Green Lake annually with approximately 4,000 rainbow trout averaging 9 to 10 inches long. Other fish commonly caught here include largemouth bass, rock bass, and bluegill.

Hot Tip:

Fishermen cannot bring private boats. Rentals are permitted, as well as fishing from the shore.

Golfing

Green Lakes State Park has a stunning 18-hole golf course that offers a picturesque and challenging golfing experience. This beautiful course was meticulously designed by a renowned golf course architect who skillfully incorporated the park’s natural landscape and rolling terrain into the layout. While navigating the course, golfers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the impressive clubhouse and take advantage of the on-site restaurant.

Hiking

Green Lakes State Park features an extensive network of over 10 miles of hiking trails, providing ample opportunities for visitors to explore the park. The trails, such as the Black Trail, Green Lake Trail, Indian Ovens Trail, and Round Lake Trail, cater to hikers of all skill levels, offering a range of difficulty levels for an enjoyable and adventurous hiking experience. The park provides a printable map detailing the trails.

Swimming

The park’s 2 glacial lakes, known for their striking turquoise waters, provide a refreshing and unique swimming experience. The swim season officially begins on Memorial Day weekend and continues through Labor Day, allowing visitors to enjoy the water for several months. The park also features a large beach area, perfect for soaking in the sun’s rays, picnics, and playing beach games.

Winter Activities

During the winter months, Green Lakes State Park is transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland. While it may not be bustling with visitors during this time, the park offers an ideal setting for snow activities. With 15 miles of cross-country trails for skiing and opportunities for snowshoeing, the park becomes a haven for winter sports enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventure in a breathtaking natural setting.

Best Times To Visit Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes State Park is open year-round and offers numerous opportunities for exploration and adventure. Certain times of the year are better for visiting, especially if you’re interested in participating in specific events or activities.

Best Time To Visit Green Lakes State Park for Beach Activities

The beach is a major attraction for tourists. July is the best time to visit the park and enjoy beach activities. The temperatures during this month range from the low 60s to the low 80s, which is perfect for cooling off from the harsh sun and enjoying the beautiful sight of the sun reflecting over the lake.

Best Time To Visit Green Lakes State Park To Avoid the Crowds

A crowd-free experience may be just what you seek when visiting this state park. The least busy time to visit this state park is in November. Planning to visit the park during this month will allow you to explore the park at your own pace without dealing with large crowds, long lines, and heavy traffic.

Best Time To Visit Green Lakes State Park for Fall Foliage

The fall foliage at Green Lakes State Park is stunning. If you want to take in the vibrant hues of autumn, plan to visit in October, when the trees are at their peak color. The bright shades of the leaves against the brilliant blue sky are a spectacular sight to behold.

Cheapest Time To Visit Green Lakes State Park

Traveling is rarely cheap, but with careful research and planning, it is possible to plan an affordable trip to Green Lakes State Park. The most cost-effective time to plan a trip here is from mid- to late September when flights and accommodations in nearby cities are at their lowest throughout the year.

Annual Events in Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes State Park offers various programs throughout the year, including craft workshops, guided hikes, and wildlife talks. Some events take place annually and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

First Day Hike

The First Day Hike occurs each year on New Year’s Day in January. It’s a self-guided hike around the Green Lake Trail. Once you complete the hike, you can join park staff and other hikers at the Environmental Education Center for prizes and giveaways. Participating in this event is a great way to start the new year with an outdoor adventure and workout.

Where To Stay in Green Lakes State Park

Numerous accommodations are available inside the park and in the surrounding towns. Whether camping or at a luxurious hotel, everyone can find a suitable place to stay in this part of New York.

Inside the Park

The only lodging within the park’s boundaries is camping or staying in one of the cabins on the property.

Cabins

At Green Lakes State Park, there are 7 charming cabins available for rent. These cozy cabins are perfect for visitors who prefer the comforts of indoor accommodations while still enjoying the rustic outdoor setting. Each cabin offers a private grill, fire pit, picnic table, and porch for relaxing. Inside is a bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a welcoming stone fireplace to warm up next to.

Campground

The park offers 142 campsites for visitors wanting to experience the park’s natural beauty and tranquility. About half of the sites have electric hookups, making them suitable for RV and tent camping. Each site includes drinking water, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Additionally, the park has shower facilities with hot water and flush toilets nearby.

Towns Near Green Lakes State Park

Many visitors stay close to Green Lakes State Park, and nearby cities range from peaceful small towns to bustling cities.

Fayetteville, New York

The park is in Fayetteville, making it the closest town for guests who want to stay near the park. This city offers a variety of lodging, dining, and recreational opportunities. You’ll find numerous hotels, historic inns, and private rentals for accommodations. There are several restaurants, including barbecue smokehouses and pizza parlors. For recreation, tourists can spend the day at nearby parks, gardens, golf courses, and museums.

Bottom Line:

Due to its proximity to the park and many amenities, Fayetteville is an ideal place to stay when visiting Green Lakes State Park.

Syracuse, New York

In the heart of New York State, you will find Syracuse, known as the gateway to the Finger Lakes region. This lively town is the closest major town to Green Lakes State Park and offers scenic outdoor parks, year-round festivals, arts and culture opportunities, and a fantastic food scene. Syracuse provides a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, private rentals, and bed and breakfasts, making it an excellent base camp for visiting the state park, as it’s only a 15-minute drive away.

Where To Eat in Green Lakes State Park

When hunger strikes, you are in luck, with plenty of restaurants to choose from within and near the park’s boundaries.

Craftsman Wood Grille & Tap House

Craftsman Wood Grille and Tap House is one of the highest-ranked restaurants near the park. It’s in Fayetteville, just 4 miles away. The restaurant is open 7 days a week for dinner. The menu features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and offers appetizers, entrees, and an impressive selection of local beers and wines. Diners can enjoy their meal in the open-view kitchen or the covered outdoor seating area.

Trapper’s Pizza Pub

Trapper’s Pizza Pub is in East Syracuse, just 4.5 miles from the park. This relaxed, family-friendly restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. The menu includes appetizers, freshly-made salads, hot wings, burgers, and specialty or made-to-order pizzas. Trapper’s is an excellent choice for refueling before or after your park adventures, or you can grab your meal to go and enjoy a picnic in the park.

Yards Grille

Yards Grille is the only dining option when visiting Green Lakes State Park. This restaurant is within the park at Green Lakes Golf Course. The menu features traditional American cuisine with a unique twist. The restaurant offers one of the best views in the county, and the patio overlooks the gorgeous golf course and the brilliant waters of Green Lakes.

Green Lakes State Park Facts

1. The Park Opened in 1928

Discussions about the land for the current Green Lakes State Park began in 1924. In 1927, the first portion of land was purchased for the park’s creation, and the park opened to the public in 1928.

2. The Lakes Are Thousands of Years Old

Research shows that the lakes at this park were formed nearly 15,000 years ago.

3. The Park Is Key for Bird Conservation

This state park is designated as a bird conservation area, meeting specific criteria as a migratory concentration site and a diverse species concentration site.

4. The Lakes Are Unique

The lakes here are meromictic, meaning their surface and deeper waters do not mix. These lakes were formed during the last ice age and are essentially enormous plunge pools.

5. Round Lake Is a National Natural Landmark

Round Lake was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1973 due to its exceptional features and the surrounding old-growth forest.

Final Thoughts

Green Lakes State Park is a true gem of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in upstate New York. From its picturesque hiking trails and pristine swimming areas to its well-equipped camping facilities and scenic golf courses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.