Green Lakes FAQ
Quick answers to the questions people ask most about Green Lakes State Park, with links to the page that covers each topic in full. Every answer comes from NYS Parks or another public agency source; prices and dates are for the 2026 season unless noted.
Before You Go
Fees and hours change by season. The vehicle fee applies only from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. See hours and fees and parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Green Lakes so green?
Calcium carbonate in the water reflects green light, according to the NY Natural Heritage Program citing DEC. It is not algae. See why the water is green.
What is a meromictic lake?
A lake whose surface and bottom waters never fully mix. Green Lake and Round Lake both skip the spring and fall turnover, so their deep water has no oxygen.
How much does it cost to get into Green Lakes State Park?
$10 per vehicle and $35 per bus from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. The rest of the year there is no vehicle fee.
What are the hours at Green Lakes State Park?
Dawn to dusk, every day of the year.
Can you swim at Green Lakes?
Yes, at the guarded beach on Green Lake, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily in season (May 23 to September 7 in 2026). Nowhere else.
Are dogs allowed at Green Lakes State Park?
Yes, up to two on a leash of 6 feet or less. Not on the guarded beach, in playgrounds or buildings, or on the golf course.
Can you bring your own kayak or paddleboard to Green Lakes?
No. NYS Parks bans all outside boats, kayaks, canoes and watercraft on both lakes. Rent a kayak or rowboat in summer.
How much is a kayak rental at Green Lakes?
In 2026, $12 an hour for a single kayak, $20 for a double and $15 for a rowboat, June 22 to September 7.
How long is the trail around Green Lake?
1.9 miles on the NYS Parks map. With Round Lake, the loop of both lakes is about three miles.
Can you bike around Green Lake?
No. Biking is not allowed on the lake trail. Bikes are allowed on other park trails.
Can you fish at Green Lakes?
On Green Lake only, outside the swimming area, with a licence if you are 16 or older. DEC stocks rainbow trout in spring. No fishing on Round Lake.
How deep is Round Lake?
Over 163 feet, and only about 700 feet across, according to NYS Parks.
Can you camp at Green Lakes State Park?
Yes. 134 campsites, $20 to $39 a night in 2026, open May 15 to October 11, booked on ReserveAmerica.
Does Green Lakes have cabins?
Yes, seven, at $462 a week or $111.50 a night with a two-night minimum. Renters must be 21 or older.
How much is golf at Green Lakes?
In 2026, $22 for 18 holes on weekdays and $32 on weekends; 9 holes $18 and $20. Tee times open seven days ahead.
Is Green Lakes open in winter?
Yes, dawn to dusk with no vehicle fee. About 15 miles of trails are open to cross-country skiers, and snowshoeing is allowed.
Where is Green Lakes State Park?
7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066, east of Syracuse. The main entrance is off Route 290.