Emerson Park – Auburn, NY

Emerson Park is a gorgeous, sprawling park at the north end of Owasco Lake. We have visited this park numerous times and always have found it astonishingly beautiful with its paved walkways, gardens, and gazebos. This is a wonderful place to explore and enjoy the elegant allure of the Lake. During the Summer, this park plays hosts to concerts and the 4th of July fireworks.

Beautiful Place for a Stroll

Our most recent visit was early in the morning. It was a nice warm day, where we could stroll along the shore, down the paths, and through the gardens without encountering another person. What we did encounter was birds, lots and lots of birds. The gardens here are really quite spectacular. They are well-manicured and in fall, burst forth in brilliant colors. There are benches, swings, and gazebos artfully placed around the park, where people can sit and enjoy some peace and quiet and a wonderful view.

Pier

One of my favorite features of this park is the canal that leads out to the lake from the boat launch and the pier. l really loved walking down the pier and watching the seagulls flying around us as we proceeded down the pier to the gazebo at the end. This is a really beautiful spot for pictures or to just take in the Lake.

While we were walking the pier, we saw people in the distance fishing in the canal and they seemed to be catching lots of fish.

Sunrise and Sunsets

It is no surprise that this place is equally appealing for both sunrises and sunsets. We have witnessed both here and it is nothing short of amazing. When we were here for the sunrise, there was fog rising up off the water and it was an unbelievable sight. The sunsets here can also be quite dramatic and breathtaking.

Boat Launch & Boat Rentals

There is a boat launch here as well as boat slips that can be rented. Canoes and Kayaks can launch as well as be rented at the park from Owasco Paddles.

Picnicking Facilities and Playground

There are lots of picnic facilities located throughout the park, including picnic pavilions that can be rented. This is a carry-in/carry-out park. There are no trash receptacles on the premises, make sure that if you plan to picnic here that you bring garbage bags to put your trash in and bring it home with you. This park has great attractions for the kids like playgrounds and a Merry-Go-Round.

Island Beach

This park wouldn’t be complete without a swimming beach. There is quite a long list of rules that must be adhered to. While it might seem like a hassle, it is well worth being able to cool off on a hot day. There is a bathhouse for changing located right near the beach.

The Beach is open daily from 11am-7pm

• No swimming unless a lifeguard is on duty
• No horseplay, diving, throwing rocks or mud
• No floatation devices
• No swimming outside the swim area perimeter
• No pets allowed on the beach
• No feeding the birds
• No glass containers
• Appropriate swimwear required
• Waterproof diapers required
• Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Lakeside Dog Park

This park even has a place for your four-legged friends. There is a dog park on the far end of the park which has its own entrance. Dogs are not allowed in the other area of the park. If you bring your dog here to walk and play on a leash, please be courteous to the other guests and pick up after your pet. This is a carry-in/carry-out park, so there are no trash receptacles to dispose of garbage in. Be prepared to take it with you to be disposed of later.

Fees

Unfortunately, this park is not free to get into but it is also not expensive. We arrived super early in the morning and did not have to pay a fee, however, if you arrive at a normal time, there is a $2 fee to park ($1 for seniors and handicapped vehicles.)

Getting to Emerson Park

Address: 6914 E. Lake Rd., Auburn

Google Map Link

Other Places to Visit in the Area

Have you visited this park before? What did you think of it? What was your favorite feature? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.