Green Lakes State Park
Green Lakes State Park
Green Lakes State Park
4.5
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Green Lakes State Park's outstanding features are its two glacial lakes surrounded by upland forest. Both Round and Green Lakes are meromictic lakes, which means that there is no fall and spring mixing of surface and bottom waters. Such lakes have a high potential for evidence of ancient plant and animal life. Another special feature of the park is the 18-hole Green Lakes State Park Golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, where visitors can snowshoe in winter, and there are 15 miles of trails that cross-country skiers can use.
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See what travelers are saying
- pukfan66 contributionsHidden Gem for Syracuse NY AreaBeautiful park to include the old growth trees (upper trail) and the obvious lakes (lower trail). Easy hikes on well groomed trails. Fun to watch the fish through the extremely clear water. Nice looking beach and historic park building on one end. First time visit to Syracuse on a business trip and after hiking around Lake Onondaga (meh) I asked a coworker for recommendations to experience something different that was nearby (only had a couple of hours after work day). He recommended this park - awesome. If you like nature, hikes, and something different - highly recommend Green Lakes State Park. The only negative was the people. Must be sign of the times and yes it is NY, but a lot of people talking loudly on phones, doing the selfie thing, video taping their visits along the entire trail. We were apparently following a group of pot smokers in hiking around Green Lake - finally was able to catch up and pass them half the hike was in a daze;). I would definitely visit again, but try to time it early in the day in the middle of a work / school week to get the minimum crowd and maximum nature.Visited May 2022Written May 16, 2022
- Dr RathnamCoimbatore, India220 contributionsGreen Lake - Amazingly green water Under blue skyIt’s one of the best lake with crystal green water sparkling under the blue sky, visible coral reefs, and ice bergs on the top surface. This place is hikers paradise, with 4km long pathway around the lake surrounded by trees and sunny day light. And extremely good place for weekend getaways during summer monthsVisited March 2020Traveled with familyWritten March 10, 2020
- Geof JGermantown, Wisconsin477 contributionsMust see lake parkThis is a beautiful state park tucked away into the countryside near Syracuse. The main lake Green Lake is spectacular with beautiful vistas and the unusual lake type providing interesting water coloration and underwater formations. We hiked around the lake in late afternoon and were caught by a rain storm about half way around but had a great time. There is a huge beach area at the lake as well as a concession/restroom building nearby. There is a beautiful golf course with a spectacular clubhouse that we did not have the chance to enjoy. This park is well worth a visit - I would love to have the chance to visit againVisited June 2020Written July 4, 2020
- Corinne BSkaneateles, New York370 contributionsLovely state parkOn an unusually warm Sunday in early March, we took our dog to Green Lakes State Park. Hundreds of other people had the same idea! People filled the playground and picnic areas. We walked our leashed dog on the trails around both Green Lake and Round Lake. The lakes are beautiful, and the trails are easy to walk with few inclines. Admission is free until Memorial Day weekend. Can't wait to return!Visited March 2020Written March 10, 2020
- JoeKupeVictor, New York642 contributionsAwesome State ParkWe had heard a lot about Green Lakes State Park from folks we know in Syracuse and a sunny Sunday afternoon was the perfect day to make the trip out to check it out. The park is big, clean and inviting. Kudos New York State Park staff for keeping the park top notch. Based on some unique characteristics the water is a legit green/blue and because of this many scientists often study it. The two lakes are meromictic, meaning the waters on top do not mix with the waters on the bottom and because of this they get their great color. There is an 18 hole golf course too and many hiking and running trails so what we have is the Lex Luger of state parks, the total package.Visited July 2020Written August 5, 2020
- KP2 contributionsDisappointed....We drove about an hour to get here. We came out only for the boating. The first issue was there were no boats available, but you're not allowed to make reservations. We were put on a wait list with at least 70 people ahead of us. We finally got a boat after waiting over 4 hours. We wanted 2 single kayaks, but all they had was 1 double. We took it out and it started thundering.... We were immediately told to exit the water. We had only been boating for about 30 mins when we were told to go back to the dock and we were off the boat about 10 mins later (had to wait for other boaters to exit the water as well). However, we still got charged for an entire hour of boating even though we barely got 40 mins and that included sitting by the dock waiting to exit.... The staff was not very friendly or accommodating either. We were very upset and disappointed. We will not be back.Visited August 2022Traveled with friendsWritten August 22, 2022
- Carol Ann JGermantown, New York1,719 contributionsThe Most Amazing Color Lake WaterGreen Lakes State Park has many things to offer. There are beach areas along the lake, play and picnic areas, fishing, and trails around the lake and pond, and through the woods. Our time was limited so we hit the trail from the beach that led from the lake to the pond. The trail was in a lovely wooded area along the lake offering many views of the most beautiful green waters that we have not seen since our travels in Alaska. It was a wonderful way to spend a hot day out of the sun while enjoying nature.Visited August 2021Written August 27, 2021
- Ger Isa36 contributionsHidden Gem in Upstate NYA hidden gem in Upstate NY. Offers an easy hiking trail that's perfect for runners too as the ground is soft, relatively flat, and not much loose/wobbly on the ground. the lake itself is paradisical. I can't believe it exists in New York with its bright turquoise clear colors. Please beware that the swimming/beach area + kayak/canoe rentals close after the summer. So plan accordingly. However, I got some spectacular summer-like weather in November so I still got to enjoy the views + a good run. Let's keep it well-cared for! :-) Solo travelers: bring a tripod for pictures.. the 'rona has made it awkward to ask someone for a picture.Visited November 2020Written November 8, 2020
- Giveahoot510 contributionsIt’s easy being Green for this Lake!Special place to visit alone, with friends or with family. There’s something magical about the color of the water that’s mesmerizing as you hike, walk or run around the lake. Great beach as well!!!Visited June 2021Traveled soloWritten June 19, 2021
- Alan L1 contributionFairThere's a lot to like about Green Lakes; the lake is beautiful, the trails around the campground are great, facilities are nice. My one issue is that the park put 6 or more inches of mulch on the lake trail. Why do that? I participate in a triathlon every year at Green Lakes which includes a run on the trail around the lake. It was extremely difficult to run in, like trying to run on a mattress. I don't think hikers / walkers like it either. You want something firm under your feet not a mattress. Makes no sense. If not for that I would give GL 5 stars.Visited June 2021Written June 16, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
326 reviews
Excellent
240
Very good
55
Average
18
Poor
6
Terrible
7
pukfan
PA66 contributions
May 2022
Beautiful park to include the old growth trees (upper trail) and the obvious lakes (lower trail). Easy hikes on well groomed trails. Fun to watch the fish through the extremely clear water. Nice looking beach and historic park building on one end. First time visit to Syracuse on a business trip and after hiking around Lake Onondaga (meh) I asked a coworker for recommendations to experience something different that was nearby (only had a couple of hours after work day). He recommended this park - awesome. If you like nature, hikes, and something different - highly recommend Green Lakes State Park.
The only negative was the people. Must be sign of the times and yes it is NY, but a lot of people talking loudly on phones, doing the selfie thing, video taping their visits along the entire trail. We were apparently following a group of pot smokers in hiking around Green Lake - finally was able to catch up and pass them half the hike was in a daze;). I would definitely visit again, but try to time it early in the day in the middle of a work / school week to get the minimum crowd and maximum nature.
The only negative was the people. Must be sign of the times and yes it is NY, but a lot of people talking loudly on phones, doing the selfie thing, video taping their visits along the entire trail. We were apparently following a group of pot smokers in hiking around Green Lake - finally was able to catch up and pass them half the hike was in a daze;). I would definitely visit again, but try to time it early in the day in the middle of a work / school week to get the minimum crowd and maximum nature.
Written May 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dr Rathnam
Coimbatore, India220 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
It’s one of the best lake with crystal green water sparkling under the blue sky, visible coral reefs, and ice bergs on the top surface. This place is hikers paradise, with 4km long pathway around the lake surrounded by trees and sunny day light. And extremely good place for weekend getaways during summer months
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Geof J
Germantown, WI477 contributions
Jun 2020
This is a beautiful state park tucked away into the countryside near Syracuse. The main lake Green Lake is spectacular with beautiful vistas and the unusual lake type providing interesting water coloration and underwater formations. We hiked around the lake in late afternoon and were caught by a rain storm about half way around but had a great time. There is a huge beach area at the lake as well as a concession/restroom building nearby. There is a beautiful golf course with a spectacular clubhouse that we did not have the chance to enjoy. This park is well worth a visit - I would love to have the chance to visit again
Written July 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Corinne B
Skaneateles, NY370 contributions
Mar 2020
On an unusually warm Sunday in early March, we took our dog to Green Lakes State Park. Hundreds of other people had the same idea! People filled the playground and picnic areas. We walked our leashed dog on the trails around both Green Lake and Round Lake. The lakes are beautiful, and the trails are easy to walk with few inclines. Admission is free until Memorial Day weekend. Can't wait to return!
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JoeKupe
Victor, NY642 contributions
Jul 2020
We had heard a lot about Green Lakes State Park from folks we know in Syracuse and a sunny Sunday afternoon was the perfect day to make the trip out to check it out. The park is big, clean and inviting. Kudos New York State Park staff for keeping the park top notch. Based on some unique characteristics the water is a legit green/blue and because of this many scientists often study it. The two lakes are meromictic, meaning the waters on top do not mix with the waters on the bottom and because of this they get their great color. There is an 18 hole golf course too and many hiking and running trails so what we have is the Lex Luger of state parks, the total package.
Written August 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KP
2 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
We drove about an hour to get here. We came out only for the boating. The first issue was there were no boats available, but you're not allowed to make reservations. We were put on a wait list with at least 70 people ahead of us. We finally got a boat after waiting over 4 hours. We wanted 2 single kayaks, but all they had was 1 double. We took it out and it started thundering.... We were immediately told to exit the water. We had only been boating for about 30 mins when we were told to go back to the dock and we were off the boat about 10 mins later (had to wait for other boaters to exit the water as well). However, we still got charged for an entire hour of boating even though we barely got 40 mins and that included sitting by the dock waiting to exit.... The staff was not very friendly or accommodating either. We were very upset and disappointed. We will not be back.
Written August 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol Ann J
Germantown, NY1,719 contributions
Aug 2021
Green Lakes State Park has many things to offer. There are beach areas along the lake, play and picnic areas, fishing, and trails around the lake and pond, and through the woods. Our time was limited so we hit the trail from the beach that led from the lake to the pond. The trail was in a lovely wooded area along the lake offering many views of the most beautiful green waters that we have not seen since our travels in Alaska. It was a wonderful way to spend a hot day out of the sun while enjoying nature.
Written August 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ger Isa
36 contributions
Nov 2020
A hidden gem in Upstate NY. Offers an easy hiking trail that's perfect for runners too as the ground is soft, relatively flat, and not much loose/wobbly on the ground. the lake itself is paradisical. I can't believe it exists in New York with its bright turquoise clear colors. Please beware that the swimming/beach area + kayak/canoe rentals close after the summer. So plan accordingly. However, I got some spectacular summer-like weather in November so I still got to enjoy the views + a good run.
Let's keep it well-cared for! :-)
Solo travelers: bring a tripod for pictures.. the 'rona has made it awkward to ask someone for a picture.
Let's keep it well-cared for! :-)
Solo travelers: bring a tripod for pictures.. the 'rona has made it awkward to ask someone for a picture.
Written November 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Giveahoot
Syracuse, New York510 contributions
Jun 2021 • Solo
Special place to visit alone, with friends or with family. There’s something magical about the color of the water that’s mesmerizing as you hike, walk or run around the lake. Great beach as well!!!
Written June 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alan L
1 contribution
Jun 2021
There's a lot to like about Green Lakes; the lake is beautiful, the trails around the campground are great, facilities are nice.
My one issue is that the park put 6 or more inches of mulch on the lake trail. Why do that? I participate in a triathlon every year at Green Lakes which includes a run on the trail around the lake. It was extremely difficult to run in, like trying to run on a mattress. I don't think hikers / walkers like it either. You want something firm under your feet not a mattress. Makes no sense. If not for that I would give GL 5 stars.
My one issue is that the park put 6 or more inches of mulch on the lake trail. Why do that? I participate in a triathlon every year at Green Lakes which includes a run on the trail around the lake. It was extremely difficult to run in, like trying to run on a mattress. I don't think hikers / walkers like it either. You want something firm under your feet not a mattress. Makes no sense. If not for that I would give GL 5 stars.
Written June 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stacie H
Rochester, NY6 contributions
Since this covid 19 thing is there open restrooms to use if you go for a day? Or are they all closed?
GreenLakesSP
Fayetteville, NY4 contributions
Above answer correct at the time. All restrooms now open for the season. During Winter restroom only available at park office and West Beach
Are members of the public allowed to go topless? I recall reading that state parks in New York allow topless patrons but I’d like to be sure
Hank F
Woodcliff Lake, NJ
Yes, in the State of New York women are allowed to go topless in State Parks. It’s not very common anymore but was extremely popular in the 90’s
how well equipped are the cabins and can I rent one for just one night in september?
thirteen03
Syracuse, NY13 contributions
There are 7 cabins (although numbered 1-8, there is no Cabin 2 for some reason) and they are all the same. They have master bedrooms with a double bed, a common room with two twin beds and a fireplace, a screened porch, a bathroom (no shower, just sink and toilet), a dining nook, and a kitchen with refrigerator, sink and stove. They are actually quite beautiful cabins and new inside. In summer you must rent them for 7 days minimum but I believe in off-peak season (after Labor Day) they can be rented by the day.
Can you bring food for just a day visit
dianewA8715AR
Liverpool, NY97 contributions
Absolutely! Feel free to bring food & drinks. I think there are grills throughout the park but not sure how many or where located.
Jessica R
Plainview, NY25 contributions
I’m so psyched to visit this park!! Is the water always so amazing looking, or do you need to be lucky to see those glorious colors?
GreenLakesSP
Fayetteville, NY4 contributions
When the sun is out, it really is that color!
dartarro21
Greeley, CO1 contribution
Are the showers coin/token operated, or is shower use included with camping fee?
GreenLakesSP
Fayetteville, NY4 contributions
Yes, showers are included with camping fees.
Leisha M
East Rochester, New York, United States13 contributions
Greetings! Have booked a stay in one of the cabins - was wondering if any tableware/ cookware/utensils are provided, or do I need to bring my own?
Thank you, and best regards
barnloves2travel
Gatineau, Canada160 contributions
There is nothing in the kitchen. You need to bring everything pots and pans dishes utensils etc
Can l bring my own grill?
barnloves2travel
Gatineau, Canada160 contributions
I don’t see why not - I saw people on campsites with big barbecues
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Claim your listingGreen Lakes State Park (Fayetteville) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Green Lakes State Park
- Green Lakes State Park is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Hotels near Green Lakes State Park:
- (2.75 mi) The Craftsman Inn & Suites
- (6.48 mi) Sleep Inn & Suites Airport
- (5.76 mi) Homewood Suites by Hilton Syracuse - Carrier Circle
- (6.09 mi) Hampton Inn & Suites Syracuse/Carrier Circle
- (5.79 mi) Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Syracuse Dewitt
- Restaurants near Green Lakes State Park:
- (0.39 mi) Yards Grille at Green Lakes
- (0.40 mi) Brian's Landing at Green Lakes
- (9.03 mi) Columbus Baking Co
- (0.67 mi) Yard
- (9.20 mi) Apizza Regionale
- Attractions near Green Lakes State Park:
- (0.69 mi) Green Lakes Golf Course
- (0.96 mi) Four Seasons Golf and Ski Center
- (8.88 mi) Erie Canal Museum
- (8.24 mi) Chittenango Falls State Park
- (8.82 mi) Great American Bike Tours
Green Lakes State Park Information
| Excellent Reviews | 240 |
|---|---|
| Very Good Reviews | 55 |
| Green Lakes State Park Photos | 326 |



































































