Natural swimming hole

Green Lakes State Park

Lake · New York

About this swimming hole

Green Lakes State Park east of Syracuse has a guarded swimming beach on a rare meromictic glacial lake, on both the governor’s official state beach list and the state parks swimming-facilities list. The turquoise lakes are the park’s centerpiece, with a beach, bathhouse, and an 18-hole golf course. Swim in the designated beach area.

Good to know

Water typeLake
Best seasonJune-September
Fees$8 parking
Reservations requiredNo
ParkingPark lot
Amenitiesrestrooms, lifeguards, picnic tables, hiking trails
CountyOnondaga County
Nearest townFayetteville
Safety notesSwim in designated beach area; meromictic lake ecology is fragile

Map

Official information

Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.

Nearby swimming holes

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Green Lakes State Park?

Yes — Green Lakes State Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in New York. Heads-up: Swim in designated beach area; meromictic lake ecology is fragile. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.

Does Green Lakes State Park require reservations?

No reservations are required at Green Lakes State Park based on current information — but verify before you go.

Is there a fee to visit Green Lakes State Park?

Reported fee info: $8 parking. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.

When is the best time to visit Green Lakes State Park?

The best season is typically June-September.

Keep exploring

Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026