Welcome to Belmont Lake State Park, your gateway to outdoor adventures in the heart of New York. Located in West Babylon, this 463-acre day use park offers a range of activities for the whole family. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply looking for a serene escape, Belmont Lake State Park has something for everyone.
Established in 1926, Belmont Lake State Park is steeped in rich history. Once belonging to August Belmont, the park was originally used for equestrian purposes. Today, it has transformed into a family-friendly destination, offering picnics, biking, hiking, and more.
With its scenic trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds, the park provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll around Belmont Lake, hike along Carll’s Creek, or spot various bird species in the wetland complex, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to enjoy.
So pack a picnic, gather your loved ones, and embark on an adventure at Belmont Lake State Park. Discover the wonders of nature, create lasting memories, and explore all that New York has to offer in this stunning park.
Key Takeaways:
- Belmont Lake State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families and nature enthusiasts.
- The park features hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
- Belmont Lake and Carll’s Creek are highlights of the park, offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
- Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various bird species in the park’s wetland complex.
- Belmont Lake State Park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to unwind and connect with nature.
Contents
Essential Information
When planning a visit to Belmont Lake State Park, there are a few essential details to keep in mind. Located in North Babylon, New York, the park spans an impressive 463 acres, offering ample space for outdoor exploration and recreational activities. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist visiting New York, this family-friendly park is a must-visit destination.
Belmont Lake State Park is equipped with various facilities to enhance your experience. Picnic pavilions are available for reservation, providing a perfect spot for outdoor gatherings and celebrations. The park also features a dog run, playgrounds, playing fields, boat rentals, and accessible amenities to cater to the diverse needs of park visitors.
The park is open from sunrise to sunset year-round, allowing you to enjoy its natural beauty and amenities throughout the day. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer to explore the park during the golden hours of the evening, you’ll have plenty of time to make the most of your visit.
| Location | Southern State Parkway Exit 38, North Babylon, NY 11703 |
|---|---|
| Size | 463 acres |
| Facilities | Picnic pavilions, dog run, accessible amenities, playgrounds, playing fields, boat rentals, restrooms |
| Hours of Operation | Open from sunrise to sunset year-round |
With this essential information in hand, you can plan your visit to Belmont Lake State Park with confidence, knowing what to expect in terms of location, size, facilities, and operating hours. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature or a place for outdoor activities and picnicking with your loved ones, Belmont Lake State Park has it all.
Park Highlights
Belmont Lake State Park offers a range of attractions and natural wonders that make it a must-visit destination. From the serene Belmont Lake to the scenic Carll’s Creek and the diverse wetland complex, the park provides endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Belmont Lake
The highlight of the park is undoubtedly Belmont Lake, a picturesque 26-acre spring-fed lake. Its crystal-clear waters attract visitors throughout the year for various activities such as springtime trout fishing and summer bass fishing. The lake is surrounded by a tranquil trail, perfect for walking and biking, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Carll’s Creek
Carll’s Creek, a 4.2-mile waterway, meanders through the park, stretching all the way to the Great South Bay. This scenic creek provides an opportunity for hikers and bikers to explore the natural beauty of the area. The trail along Carll’s Creek offers breathtaking views and an escape into nature, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wetland Complex
Belmont Lake State Park is also home to a significant wetland complex, attracting a wide variety of bird species. The wetlands serve as a sanctuary for waterfowl, including Osprey, Northern Shovelers, Mergansers, Teal, Great Blue Heron, and Egrets. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Table: Park Highlights
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Belmont Lake | A 26-acre spring-fed lake known for trout and bass fishing. |
| Carll’s Creek | A 4.2-mile waterway with a trail for hiking and biking. |
| Wetland Complex | A sanctuary for a variety of bird species. |
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Belmont Lake State Park. Explore the tranquil Belmont Lake, take a leisurely stroll along Carll’s Creek, or indulge in birdwatching in the wetland complex. This park truly offers something for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers.
Continue reading to learn more about the activities available at Belmont Lake State Park.
Activities
Belmont Lake State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a place to relax and unwind, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park.
Hiking
One of the main highlights of Belmont Lake State Park is its extensive network of hiking trails. With 7.6 miles of multi-use trails, the park provides ample opportunities for hiking, walking, and nature observation. Explore the scenic beauty of the park as you stroll along the trails and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Boating
If you’re a fan of water activities, Belmont Lake is the perfect place for you. During the summer months, visitors can rent pedal boats, rowboats, and kayaks to explore the lake. Whether you prefer a leisurely paddle or a more adventurous kayak ride, the calm waters of Belmont Lake provide a serene and picturesque setting for boating enthusiasts.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Belmont Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. With springtime trout fishing and summer bass fishing, anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a day of casting their lines and hoping for a catch. Rowboats are available for fishing from Monday to Friday during specific dates, providing convenient access to the lake’s best fishing spots.
Picnicking
Belmont Lake State Park is a popular destination for picnics and outdoor gatherings. The park features picnic areas with tables and grills, allowing families and friends to enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by nature. Whether you’re planning a small family picnic or a larger gathering, the park’s scenic surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor dining experience.
With its diverse range of activities, Belmont Lake State Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through the park’s scenic trails, boating on the tranquil waters of Belmont Lake, or simply enjoying a picnic with loved ones, you’re sure to have a memorable experience at this beautiful park.
Accommodations
Belmont Lake State Park provides a range of accommodations to enhance your visit. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just want a convenient spot to enjoy a picnic, the park’s amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Picnic Pavilions
The park offers four picnic pavilions that can be reserved for events and gatherings. These pavilions provide a spacious and shaded area for you and your guests to relax and enjoy a meal. Prices for pavilion rentals range from $200 to $250 and can accommodate up to 200 people. With tables, benches, and nearby restroom facilities, the picnic pavilions make it convenient to host a memorable outdoor gathering. Book your reservation in advance to secure the pavilion of your choice.
Dog Run
For dog owners, Belmont Lake State Park has a dedicated 100ft x 100ft dog run. The dog run features separate areas for large and small dogs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable space for your furry friends to play and socialize. It is open during normal park hours and provides pet waste stations for convenience. Bring your dog along for a day of outdoor fun and exploration at the park.
| Accommodation | Price Range | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Picnic Pavilion 1 | $200 | Up to 150 people |
| Picnic Pavilion 2 | $225 | Up to 175 people |
| Picnic Pavilion 3 | $250 | Up to 200 people |
| Picnic Pavilion 4 | $225 | Up to 175 people |
Exploring the Area
When visiting Belmont Lake State Park, take the time to explore the surrounding area and discover other attractions that will enhance your experience. One nearby attraction that horse enthusiasts will appreciate is the Babylon Riding Center. Located in West Babylon, the Babylon Riding Center offers horseback riding activities for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you can enjoy guided trail rides through scenic trails and beautiful landscapes. It’s a great opportunity to connect with nature and experience the joy of horseback riding.
Besides the Babylon Riding Center, the area surrounding Belmont Lake State Park also offers other attractions to explore. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of West Babylon and discover local shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you’re interested in history, you can visit the West Babylon Historical Society and learn about the rich heritage of the area. For those who enjoy golfing, consider playing a round at one of the nearby golf courses, such as Bergen Point Golf Course or Colonial Springs Golf Club.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply want to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere, there is plenty to discover in the area surrounding Belmont Lake State Park. Take the time to explore and make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of New York.
Services and Facilities
Belmont Lake State Park offers a range of services and facilities to enhance your visit. Whether you’re looking to rent a boat, take advantage of accessible restrooms, or reserve a picnic pavilion for a special event, the park has you covered.
Boat Rentals
Experience the tranquility of Belmont Lake by renting a pedal boat, rowboat, or kayak during the summer months. Glide across the pristine waters and take in the surrounding natural beauty. Kayak rentals are also available for a nominal fee, providing an enjoyable and scenic way to explore the lake.
Restrooms
Belmont Lake State Park understands the importance of convenience and comfort during your visit. Accessible restrooms can be found throughout the park, ensuring that you have easy access to facilities when you need them.
Picnic Pavilion Reservations
If you’re planning a special event or gathering, Belmont Lake State Park offers four picnic pavilions that can be reserved. These pavilions provide a shaded and spacious area for your group to enjoy a meal and celebrate. Prices range from $200 to $250, accommodating up to 200 people.
With these services and facilities, Belmont Lake State Park aims to enhance your experience and ensure that you have everything you need for a memorable visit.
| Service/Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Boat Rentals | Rent pedal boats, rowboats, and kayaks to explore Belmont Lake during summer months. Kayak rentals available for a nominal fee. |
| Restrooms | Accessible restrooms located throughout the park for visitors’ convenience. |
| Picnic Pavilion Reservations | Four picnic pavilions available for reservation, accommodating up to 200 people. Prices range from $200 to $250. |
Park History
Belmont Lake State Park has a fascinating history that traces back to its establishment in 1926. Originally, the park was owned by August Belmont, who used the land for his equestrian activities. The sprawling farmland served as a testament to Belmont’s passion for horses and the outdoors.
In 1935, Robert Moses recognized the park’s potential and selected it as the regional headquarters for all state parks on Long Island. This decision marked a significant turning point for Belmont Lake State Park, as it became the administrative hub for park operations and permit sales in the region.
Today, Belmont Lake State Park continues to honor its rich history. It serves as the headquarters for the New York State Park Police, ensuring the safety and security of visitors. From its origins as a picturesque farmland to its present-day role as a vital regional park, Belmont Lake State Park remains a testament to the vision and dedication of both August Belmont and Robert Moses.
FAQ
Are there any entrance fees for Belmont Lake State Park?
No, there are no entrance fees for Belmont Lake State Park. Admission to the park is free.
Can I bring my own boat to Belmont Lake?
Yes, you can bring your own boat to Belmont Lake. The park has a boat launch available for public use.
Are there any restrictions on fishing at Belmont Lake?
Yes, fishing is allowed at Belmont Lake, but there are specific regulations and restrictions. Make sure to check the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s guidelines for fishing seasons and limits.
Can I reserve a picnic pavilion at Belmont Lake State Park?
Yes, Belmont Lake State Park offers four picnic pavilions that can be reserved for events and gatherings. Prices range from $200 to $250. Contact the park office for more information and availability.
Is the park dog-friendly?
Yes, Belmont Lake State Park has a dedicated dog run where your furry friends can run and play. The dog run has separate areas for large and small dogs, and pet waste stations are provided for convenience.
What are the park’s hours of operation?
Belmont Lake State Park is open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
Can I rent kayaks or boats at Belmont Lake?
Yes, during the summer months, visitors can rent pedal boats, rowboats, and kayaks to explore Belmont Lake. Kayaks and canoes can also be launched from the boat dock.
Are there any accessible facilities in the park?
Yes, Belmont Lake State Park provides accessible restrooms and other amenities to ensure that everyone can enjoy the park’s facilities.
Can I fish from the rowboats at Belmont Lake?
Rowboats are available for fishing from Monday to Friday during specific dates at Belmont Lake. Please check with the park office for more details and availability.
Are there any nearby attractions to visit around Belmont Lake State Park?
Yes, Belmont Lake State Park is located in West Babylon, which offers a variety of attractions and amenities. Visitors can explore the nearby Babylon Riding Center for horseback riding activities. Contact 631-587-7778 for more information.
