
Bethpage State Park
Iconic public golf destination and sprawling parkland offering challenging courses, scenic trails, and family recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tee times

Bethpage State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tee times
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic public golf destination and sprawling parkland offering challenging courses, scenic trails, and family recreation.
"Bethpage State Park is more than just a park — it’s a piece of nature, history, and recreation all wrapped together."

🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Reservations for Bethpage Black are highly sought after. Plan months in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on trails and hilly golf courses. Good footwear is essential.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bethpage Black Course
Golf Course
The 'People's Country Club' is a challenging, world-class course that has hosted major championships.

Hiking and Biking Trails
Throughout the Park
Explore miles of scenic trails winding through wooded areas, offering a peaceful nature escape.

Ryder Cup Venue
Bethpage Black Course
Experience the thrill of a course that has hosted prestigious international golf tournaments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tee Off at the People's Country Club
Beyond the Fairways
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Reservations for Bethpage Black are highly sought after. Plan months in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on trails and hilly golf courses. Good footwear is essential.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is $8, but free with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
💰 Affordable Golf
As a state park, the courses are generally more affordable than private clubs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Reservations for Bethpage Black are highly sought after. Plan months in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on trails and hilly golf courses. Good footwear is essential.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is $8, but free with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
💰 Affordable Golf
As a state park, the courses are generally more affordable than private clubs.
🌳 Explore Beyond Golf
Don't miss the beautiful hiking trails and playgrounds for a full park experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bethpage State Park for its challenging and beautiful golf courses, particularly the iconic Black Course, and its extensive natural trails. Many appreciate the park's accessibility and affordability as a public facility. However, some find the pro shop prices and golf cart rentals to be expensive, and logistics during major events can be challenging.
"Way too expensive in pro shop. 40$ for a cart so they can interrupt my golf game (reasonable fees) with advertising! And 9 holes, cost... 28$...???
Hmmmm....
They know that these hills are killers, and of course if I can be a captive audiences, a PAYING CAPTIVE AUDIENCE and overcharged in the process, WHY NOT??
and maybe pull carts updated since the inception of park in 1934,would be nice. The biggest, 2 wheel, off balance, unwieldy carts I've ever rented.
Pro events give these minor civil servants hubris and make too big for their golfer's britches. You serve the customer not vice versa. Act as if they don't have to return, make them want to. Please. Course in good shape into Nov. Good."
Kevin Magrane
"Living right next to Bethpage State Park is truly a blessing. This park is absolutely beautiful, and it’s become part of our daily life — we take our dog Piper here almost every day for walks. No matter how many times I’ve been, it never loses its charm.
The park is filled with multiple trails, each offering a different experience. Some are peaceful and wooded, others more open with sweeping views, but all are gorgeous. Walking here often feels like being transported upstate — you’d never believe you’re still on Long Island. The views, especially during different seasons, are breathtaking.
There’s also so much more than just walking trails. The playground is great for families, and of course, the world-class golf courses are a huge draw. Bethpage Black is legendary, and the fact that the Ryder Cup is coming here in September speaks volumes about the quality of the course. Even if you don’t golf, just being around those perfectly maintained fairways is something special.
Another highlight is that the park connects to the 12-mile Bethpage Bikeway, which runs all the way from Massapequa to the shoreline. Whether you’re biking or walking parts of it, it’s one of the most beautiful trails in the region.
Bethpage State Park is more than just a park — it’s a piece of nature, history, and recreation all wrapped together. It’s gorgeous, peaceful, and endlessly enjoyable. Truly one of Long Island’s gems."
Imran Atique
"We had the best time at Bethpage!
My boyfriend played the Black Course and I walked with him, it was intense, beautiful, and so well designed
Watching him take on that challenge was unforgettable
I played the Red Course myself and had so much fun
It was still challenging but really enjoyable and well laid out
The whole experience, from the staff to the scenery was amazing
Can’t wait to come back!"
Kaitie Grace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bethpage State Park is located on Long Island, easily accessible by car via the Southern State Parkway or Northern State Parkway. Public transportation options include taking the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Farmingdale station, followed by a taxi or rideshare to the park.
Yes, there are large parking lots available. The parking fee is typically $8, but it's free with an Empire Pass or during the off-season.
Yes, you can reach Bethpage State Park from NYC by taking the LIRR to Farmingdale station. From there, a short taxi or rideshare will get you to the park.
The park is quite spread out. While you can drive between areas, walking is great for exploring trails. For golf, consider the park's shuttle services or your own transport between courses if needed.
While not extensively advertised, some visitors have noted shuttle services for golfers, especially during major events. It's best to inquire at the pro shop or visitor center upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free, but there is a parking fee. If you plan to play golf, you will need to book tee times and pay green fees for each course.
Booking tee times for Bethpage Black is highly competitive. Reservations can often be made online or by phone, but they fill up extremely quickly, especially for prime times.
As a state park, Bethpage offers relatively affordable green fees compared to private clubs. Fees vary by course and residency status (NY residents often pay less).
For the more popular courses like Bethpage Black, walk-on availability is rare and often requires very early arrival. It's highly recommended to secure a reservation in advance.
An Empire Pass provides free parking at New York State Parks, including Bethpage. Look out for potential package deals or off-season promotions.
🎫 ⛳ Golfing Experience
Bethpage Black is notoriously challenging, known for its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens. It's considered one of the toughest public courses in the U.S.
Besides the Black Course, Bethpage features the Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow courses, offering a range of difficulties and experiences for golfers of all skill levels.
Yes, golf club rentals and golf carts are available for rent at the pro shops. However, some reviews mention the carts can be expensive and outdated.
While the Black Course is very difficult, the Green, Yellow, and Blue courses offer more forgiving experiences suitable for beginners and intermediate players.
Bethpage State Park generally has a relaxed dress code for its public courses, but collared shirts and appropriate golf attire are usually expected. Check the specific course rules.
🎫 🌳 Park Activities & Amenities
The park offers extensive hiking and biking trails, playgrounds for children, picnic areas, and beautiful open spaces for relaxation and recreation.
Yes, Bethpage State Park has large playgrounds with various play structures, making it a great destination for families with children.
Absolutely! The park has numerous picnic areas perfect for a family outing or a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Bethpage State Park, especially on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Bethpage State Park connects to the 12-mile Bethpage Bikeway, offering a scenic route for cyclists.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically on-site cafes or snack bars at the golf course clubhouses offering food and beverages. For more extensive dining, the nearby town of Farmingdale has many options.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, especially for picnics. This is a great way to save money and enjoy the park's scenery.
The nearby town of Farmingdale offers a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences.
Yes, most of the golf courses have clubhouses with pro shops and concessions that serve snacks, drinks, and sometimes light meals.
While the park is primarily for public recreation, inquire with park management about possibilities for group events or catering services, especially at the golf clubhouses.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling fairways of the golf courses, especially the Black Course, offer dramatic landscapes. The wooded trails also provide beautiful natural backdrops throughout the seasons.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use on the golf courses, but be mindful of golfers playing and avoid disrupting their game. Professional photography may require permits.
Landscape photography, golf action shots (especially during events), and nature photography are popular. The park's scenic beauty lends itself to various styles.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to ensure safety and protect wildlife. It's best to check with park authorities for current regulations.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, casting long shadows and warm tones across the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the golf courses can be challenging, non-golfing family members can enjoy the extensive hiking trails, which are relatively easy to navigate and offer beautiful natural scenery. The park's open spaces are also perfect for kids to run around and explore.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and drinks for picnics to further cut down on expenses. Exploring the park's hiking trails is a free activity that offers beautiful scenery and a great way to spend time outdoors without spending extra money.
🏌️ Golf Enthusiasts
Beyond the Black Course, explore the other four courses (Red, Blue, Green, Yellow) for varied golfing experiences. The park provides an opportunity to play on world-class public courses, making it a pilgrimage site for many golf aficionados.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legendary Bethpage Black Course
The course is famous for its demanding layout, featuring narrow fairways, strategically placed hazards, and undulating greens that test even the most skilled golfers. Visitors often describe it as a 'beast' and a true test of golf. The park's commitment to maintaining its pristine condition ensures a memorable, albeit tough, golfing experience.
While the Black Course is the star, remember that booking tee times is extremely competitive. Many golfers recommend arriving very early or trying for walk-on spots if you're feeling lucky, though securing a reservation is the most reliable method.
Exploring Bethpage State Park's Natural Beauty
These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk with your dog (on a leash), or a more vigorous bike ride. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering a peaceful retreat that feels miles away from urban life, despite its Long Island location. The park also connects to the Bethpage Bikeway, extending your exploration opportunities.
For families, the park's playgrounds are a major draw, offering ample space for children to play and burn off energy. Combined with numerous picnic spots, it makes Bethpage State Park a well-rounded destination for nature lovers and families alike.
Planning Your Golf Trip to Bethpage
The Bethpage Black Course is the most famous and challenging, having hosted major tournaments. Securing a tee time here requires significant advance planning and often involves a lottery system or booking far in advance. For those seeking a slightly less intense experience, the Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow courses offer excellent playability and beautiful scenery.
When planning, consider the park's fees, including parking and green fees, which are generally reasonable for the quality of the courses. Club and cart rentals are available, though some reviews suggest they could be more modern. Remember to check the park's official website for the most up-to-date information on tee times, fees, and any special event schedules.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit