Bright greenish blue water is a rarity this far north of the Caribbean but you can see this beautiful shade of green at Green Lakes State Park in central New York. This is a must see if you are near Syracuse, NY. The park has two gorgeous green lakes, hence the name. The park has many amenities with walking trails around both lakes and surrounding areas. There is an 18 hole golf course, playground and beach. Green Lakes is conveniently located 15 minutes off I 90, just outside of the city of Syracuse.

Interesting fact, the two lakes are an unusual green color due to the high levels of calcium carbonate. The calcium carbonate reflects the green wavelength and we see the beautiful green color. You can see the green color best when the sun is shinning on it.

 

Some key facts to know about Green Lakes State Park:

• The park is open year round
• $10 fee per car during summer months (Memorial day to Labor day),
  • free to enter after Labor day
  • NY Empire Pass accepted here
• There are two entrances
  • The entrance off RT 5 brings you by the golf course and gives you a quick view down to the lakes through the trees (closed during the winter)
  • The entrance off 290 gets you to the beach and lakes quicker
• There are restrooms and picnic tables near the parking lots and beach area
• During the summer months, there is also a snack bar

Kayaking

• There are row boats, canoes and kayaks for rent in the Summer months (closes Labor Day)
  • Ranging from $5-$15 per half hour
  • For an extra view, rent the crystal kayaks (clear bottom).
• On weekends, lines can get long when they first open. We went on a Friday and there was already a line 30 minutes before opening. They were already out of the crystal kayaks but we still enjoyed our time in the regular kayaks.
• Due to the sensitive nature of the lakes, no outside/private boats are allowed
• Kayaking was a huge highlight for our family. We have walked around these lakes many times before but viewing from the middle was a unique experience and we were able to enjoy green water and have a peaceful moment.

Beach

• The beach & swimming area is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day
  • They have lifeguards during the summer but many people enjoy the sand during the off season as well.
• The Playground is located next to the beach.
• There is a snack bar and plenty of restrooms around the beach and playground area.

Trails

• An easy, mostly flat trail goes around both lakes (you can also just walk around the main lake to keep the walk shorter).
  • This is a great trail to walk with the family, just remember to bring a stroller for those with shorter legs.
  • No bikes are allowed on the trail around the lakes.
  • You can bring your dog on a leash on the trails. There are many people enjoying the trails with their pets.
• There are additional trails that continue into the park woods that connect to the main parking, campgrounds and lake trail.

Camping

• Campsites and Cabins are available
• Camping is available from Mid May to Mid October
• You can reserve up to 9 months in advance
• Reserve early if you know your dates, just like many other parks and campgrounds, this can fill up quickly.
• Reserve your campsite here.

Golf

• If you are a golfer, this 18 hole golf course is not one to miss.
• You do not have to pay the entrance fee to golf here.
• Clubhouse/ Restaurant is at the top of the hill for a specular view of the lake below.
• The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones.

Different seasons

• All the seasons provide different activities at the park.
• Winter
  • bring your cross country skis or snow shoes and enjoy the 15 miles of trails.
  • bundle up and walk the trails around the lake and enjoy the beautiful contrast of the white snow against the green water.
• Spring
  • Walk or hike
  • Bring your bike for the trails around the park
• Summer
  • Hike and walk
  • bike ride
  • Kayak
  • swim and soak in the sun at the beach
  • golf
• Fall
  • Walk around the lakes and enjoy the beautiful shades of changing tree colors. The contrasting colors with the blue-green lake is gorgeous.
  • Bike ride
  • Golf

Fall is a beautiful time to visit Green Lakes. The brilliant leaf colors contrasting with the green water is absolutely beautiful. While the rest of the seasons each hold their own beauty here, if you are able to choose, I would visit here in the Fall season.