Hope Lake Park
A Lakeside Day Trip at Greek Peak
What to Expect
Located next to Hope Lake Lodge, Hope Lake Park is a scenic municipal park owned by the Town of Virgil and managed by Greek Peak. Open to the public, the park offers lake access, swimming, fishing, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas, pavilion rentals, and more.
Whether guests are planning a summer beach day, a family picnic, a reunion, or a peaceful walk around the lake, Hope Lake Park is an easy way to enjoy the outdoors in Virgil, NY.
GPS Location: 2245 Clute Road, Cortland, NY / Virgil, NY 13045
Summer Hours
Hope Lake Park typically operates on weekends from Memorial Day Weekend through the end of June, then daily from late June through Labor Day.
*Park managers reserve the right to close the park due to dangerous weather conditions.
Things to Do at Hope Lake Park
Swimming & Beach Access
Enjoy summer swimming at Hope Lake during posted beach hours when lifeguards are on duty. Swimming and wading are not permitted without a lifeguard on duty. Town of Virgil residents and Hope Lake Lodge guests receive free beach/swimming admission during operating hours. Public visitors may purchase admission.
Fishing
Hope Lake is open for fishing, and fishing pole rentals are available during operating hours. A valid New York State fishing license is required for guests age 16 and older. NYS DEC limits apply.
Boat Rentals
Boat rentals are available during operating hours on a first-come, first-served basis. Rental options include:
- Canoes
- Pedal boats
- Stand-up paddle boards
Personal or external watercraft are not permitted on Hope Lake at any time.
Guests under 18 must have a parent or guardian complete rental agreement forms. Watercraft will not be rented to anyone under 16 without an accompanying adult.
Hiking Trails
Hope Lake Park offers approximately 10 km of hiking trails, including a 1-mile paved trail around Hope Lake. Trails may be accessed outside of regular operating hours at the guest’s own risk.
Picnic Areas, Grills & Pavilions
Picnic areas, charcoal grills, and pavilions are available throughout the park. Smaller picnic areas and pavilions are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The large pavilion is available for rental and is a great option for family reunions, graduation parties, weddings, company outings, and group gatherings.
Pavilion rentals include admission, but guests must stop at the Bathhouse to verify completion of the required Agreement of Responsibility.
Basketball & Volleyball
A basketball court and volleyball net are available at the park. Basketball and volleyball rentals are available during operating hours.
Admission & Rental Rates
| Item | Regular | Group |
| Daily Admission | $6.00 | $4.00 |
| Season Admission | $45.00 | $45.00 |
| Boat Rental | $12/hr | $12/hr |
| Stand-Up Paddle Board Rental | $20/hr | $20/hr |
| Fishing Pole Rental | $9.00 | $9.00 |
Season admission is valid Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Daily admission is required for all boat rentals.
Pavilion Rental Rates
| Rental Length | Rate |
| 4 Hours | $300.00 |
| 6 Hours | $380.00 |
| 8 Hours | $465.00 |
| After Hours | $50/hr |
| Deposit | $75.00 |
Admission is included for pavilion rentals, but guests must stop at the Bathhouse to verify AoR completion. Town of Virgil Resident Pavilion Rental Rate: $100 with resident ID.
Important Park Rules & Notes
- Swimming and wading are not permitted without a lifeguard on duty.
- Personal or external watercraft are not permitted on Hope Lake.
- Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Daily admission is required for all boat rentals.
- Hiking trails, fishing areas, grills, picnic tables, and pavilions may be accessible outside operating hours at the guest’s own risk.
- All rental items carry individual fees. Rentals are not free for Town of Virgil residents or Hope Lake Lodge guests.
- Guests under 18 must have a parent or guardian complete rental agreement forms.
- Watercraft will not be rented to guests under 16 without an accompanying adult.
Rent the Pavilion
Planning a reunion, graduation party, wedding, or group event? The large pavilion at Hope Lake Park is available for rental. To rent the pavilion, contact Group Sales:
Call: 1-800-955-2754 ext. 6321
Contact Hope Lake Park
Phone: 607-835-6562
Email: hopelake@greekpeakmtnresort.com
Address: 2245 Clute Road, Virgil, NY 13045
We are a cashless resort and do not accept cash payments. Please plan accordingly.