Hempstead Lake Boat Launch

Hempstead Lake Boat Launch is a public carry-in (hand-launch) site on Hempstead Lake in Nassau County, New York.

It is owned and managed by OPRHP.

This is a carry-in access designed for canoes, kayaks and other hand-launched small craft rather than trailered powerboats.

Hempstead Lake Boat Launch is a hand-carry / car-top access.

The site is managed by OPRHP.

Hempstead Lake is open to public fishing, boating and paddling across from the Great Lakes to the Adirondacks. Anglers here target smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, trout and panfish.

The Great Lakes, Finger Lakes and rivers hold trout, salmon and steelhead.

On a lake like this, weed edges, drop-offs, points and structure hold fish through the open-water season.

Hempstead Lake Boat Launch is a public access point to Hempstead Lake for hand-carried craft.

This launch sits on Hempstead Lake; look for other public access points, marinas and shoreline fishing spots along the same water, and check the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for the full list of access sites nearby.

Conditions are usually milder than big water, but wind can still build a chop on open stretches. Watch for shallow bars, stumps and swimmers near shore, and check the forecast before a long run.

Carry U.S. Coast Guard–required safety gear, wear your life jacket, file a float plan for longer trips, and remember that spring and fall water is cold enough to cause hypothermia quickly.

A New York fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Follow the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's seasons, size and creel limits, which vary by water and species.

Clean, Drain and Dry: remove all aquatic plants and animals, drain every compartment, and never move live fish or bait between waters — this is how invasive species like zebra mussels and invasive carp spread.

Observe posted launch rules, no-wake and idle zones near the ramp, and any local watercraft controls.

This is a hand-launch site — bring a cart for longer carries and pack light. It is ideal for kayaks, canoes and small car-top boats rather than big trailered rigs.

Arrive early on summer weekends for parking, and have a plan for wind direction before you launch on open water.