Best lakes around Bellerose Terrace offers access to several notable lakes within a short drive, providing diverse recreational activities and natural landscapes. While Bellerose Terrace itself does not contain any lakes, the surrounding region features significant natural attractions. Visitors can explore areas like Hempstead Lake State Park and the Massapequa Preserve, which includes Massapequa Lake and Massapequa Reservoir. These locations offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and connecting with nature.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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almost exactly a 5K distance around the lake. beautiful, peaceful, and most importantly shaded
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Hempstead Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by scenic parkland. Covering over 100 acres, it’s a great spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. A nice trail encircles the lake, making it perfect for a run.
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Hempstead Lake State Park is a multi-use facility that has children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and paths for horseback riding, biking and hiking. There are also picnic areas and an observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake.
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Hempstead Lake is a tranquil freshwater lake surrounded by scenic parkland. Spanning over 100 acres, the lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by a nice walking trail, that serves as the perfect location for a stroll.
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The cycle paths could be better, no question. But the lake with many waterfowl is the compensation. I find the atmosphere there and also on the adjoining world exhibition site somehow unique.
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From here, you have a great view of the Throgs Neck Bridge and of Little Bay.
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A beautiful stretch of bike path. It is named after Joseph Michaels (1941-1987), a health activist who used to live in Queens.
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Pretty park, but the paved paths are in pretty bad shape here — typical of the city's neglect of Queens parks.
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The lakes near Bellerose Terrace offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, boating (kayaking), picnicking, and bird watching. Hempstead Lake, for instance, is popular for fishing and boating, while the surrounding Hempstead Lake State Park provides trails for biking and hiking.
Yes, several lakes and parks are family-friendly. Hempstead Lake State Park features children's playgrounds, basketball courts, and a historic hand-carved wooden carousel. View of Throgs Neck Bridge and Little Bay is also family-friendly and includes a beach. The Massapequa Preserve, encompassing Massapequa Lake and Reservoir, offers trails and picnic areas suitable for families.
You'll find a range of trails for both hiking and cycling. Hempstead Lake is encircled by a walking trail, perfect for a stroll or run. Joe Michaels Mile is a beautiful stretch of bike path. The Massapequa Preserve offers over 20 miles of trails winding through woodlands and wetlands. For more detailed routes, you can explore easy hikes or road cycling routes in the area.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Hempstead Lake is stocked with various freshwater fish. Massapequa Lake is known for largemouth bass, bluegill, and yellow perch, with a 'no-kill' black bass regulation. Massapequa Reservoir is regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout, and also has largemouth bass, sunfish, carp, and catfish.
Absolutely. The walking trail around Hempstead Lake is a gentle option, almost exactly a 5K distance. The Massapequa Preserve also features numerous trails suitable for easy walks, allowing visitors to enjoy nature without strenuous effort. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide.
The lakes and surrounding preserves are home to diverse wildlife. At Hempstead Lake and within the Massapequa Preserve, you can observe various bird species and other local wildlife in their natural habitats.
While specific public transport routes vary, many of the larger parks like Hempstead Lake State Park and the Massapequa Preserve offer designated parking areas. For Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, parking is also available.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming flowers. Summer is ideal for picnicking and water activities. In winter, Hempstead Lake State Park even offers ice skating, weather permitting.
Yes, there are several scenic spots. The View of Throgs Neck Bridge and Little Bay offers a great vista. Hempstead Lake State Park has an observation deck overlooking Hempstead Lake, and Meadow Lake also provides pleasant viewpoints.
Many parks and preserves in the area, including those around the lakes, are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
Yes, larger parks such as Hempstead Lake State Park offer extensive facilities including restrooms, shaded picnic areas, and playgrounds. The Massapequa Preserve also provides designated picnic areas for visitors.
Massapequa Lake is a 40-acre lake known for its 'no-kill' black bass regulation, which has improved its bass population. Massapequa Reservoir, covering 20 acres, is considered one of Long Island's most heavily fished ponds, regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout. Both are part of the Massapequa Preserve, offering a tranquil escape with woodlands and wetlands.


Still not found your perfect lake around Bellerose Terrace? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.