Best lakes around Glen Cove, NY, offer a mix of coastal charm and freshwater recreation. This waterfront city on Long Island provides access to Hempstead Harbor and the Long Island Sound, alongside notable freshwater bodies. The area's natural landscape includes ponds and larger lakes, providing diverse outdoor experiences. These locations serve as key points for nature observation and various recreational activities.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Very close to the Science Museum of Long Island, as you ride along Rock Hollow Road, you'll have a good view of this pond, which is a sub-watershed of Manhasset Bay, where it also discharges its overflow from storm water.
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Stepping Stone is a lovely park to take a break off the bike. The park has water, restrooms and even public wifi to plan your next stop. The views out to the coast are fantastic too.
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A well-maintained dirt trail winds through Saxon Woods Park, tracing the path along the Mamaroneck Reservoir and Vernal Pond, providing breathtaking views of both the water and the lush hardwood forest. This trail is highly popular among hikers, cross-country enthusiasts, and equestrians alike.
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Stepping stone Park, located at Kings Point, has all the common park amenities plus more. There is public wifi to upload your ride, a snack bar, restrooms, water, and a spray pad for those hot days.
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This is an excellent location to get a panoramic view of Smith Cove. Depending on the day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Long Island area from this point.
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In addition to nice views when biking there is a short hiking trail along the lake that ends here and is part of the Edith Read sanctuary
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Directly in Glen Cove, Dosoris Pond is a notable 102-acre pond overlooking West Island. It's recognized as a fishing spot and has seen revitalization efforts to improve its ecological health. Another significant body of water is Leeds Pond, located very close to the Science Museum of Long Island, which is a sub-watershed of Manhasset Bay.
Yes, for a wider range of recreational activities on a larger freshwater lake, Hempstead Lake is an excellent choice. Located within Hempstead Lake State Park, approximately 16 miles from Glen Cove, it is the largest freshwater lake in Nassau County. The park offers fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and boating.
Hempstead Lake State Park provides a wide array of activities. You can enjoy freshwater fishing (stocked with trout, bass, and more), hiking, biking, and horseback riding on bridle trails. Boating is permitted for car-top boats, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and inflatables with a permit. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, a softball field, and a historic hand-carved wooden carousel, making it ideal for families. For more details, you can visit the Hempstead Lake State Park Wikipedia page.
Yes, you can find hiking opportunities. For example, Hempstead Lake State Park offers various trails for hiking. While not a lake, the nearby easy hikes around Glen Cove include routes like the Garvies Point Preserve Loop and Coffin Woods Preserve Loop, which offer natural surroundings.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Dosoris Pond in Glen Cove is recognized as a fishing spot. Additionally, Hempstead Lake in Hempstead Lake State Park is well-known for freshwater fishing, being stocked with various species including trout, largemouth bass, and yellow perch.
Absolutely. Hempstead Lake State Park is highly family-friendly, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and a historic carousel in addition to its lake activities. While not a lake in Glen Cove, Playland Lake, located in Rye, NY, is part of Playland Amusement Park and offers paddle boats, making it a fun family outing if you're willing to travel a bit further.
For cycling enthusiasts, there are several routes in the broader area. You can explore options like the Old Westbury Pond loop from Greenvale or the Port Washington Waterfront – Sands Point - Lighthouse Road loop from Glenwood Landing. Find more details on Road Cycling Routes around Glen Cove.
The lakes around Glen Cove and the broader region can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking, with beautiful foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for water activities like boating and fishing, especially at Hempstead Lake. Winter can offer serene, quiet landscapes, though some activities might be limited.
While Glen Cove Creek is not a lake, it's significant to the city's history and waterfront. Historically, it had two millponds, Upper Glen Lake and Lower Glen Lake, which have since been filled in. The creek itself flows into Hempstead Harbor. Dosoris Pond has also undergone revitalization efforts, highlighting ongoing care for its ecological health.
Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor experiences, from the tranquil fishing opportunities at Dosoris Pond to the extensive recreational facilities at Hempstead Lake State Park. The natural landscapes provide opportunities for nature observation, hiking, and enjoying scenic views, such as those from Leeds Pond near the Science Museum of Long Island.
Yes, there are running trails in the vicinity. For example, you can find routes like the Mill Pond loop from Village of Manorhaven. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Glen Cove guide.
While specific public transport routes to every lake can vary, Hempstead Lake State Park is generally accessible via public transportation options that connect to West Hempstead. It's advisable to check local Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE Bus) schedules for the most current routes and stops to plan your visit.


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