Six Mile Waterworks Park

A Hidden Urban Oasis

Tucked between bustling highways yet somehow feeling worlds away, Six Mile Waterworks Park sprawls across 57 acres in Albany, New York. At its heart lies Rensselaer Lake (locally known as Six Mile Waterworks), a historical gem that first served as Albany's public water reservoir way back in 1851.

The lake itself is pretty substantial - covering about 35.3 acres with nearly 3 miles of shoreline to explore. You'll discover this peaceful retreat within Albany's Pine Bush Preserve, just a quick hop off Fuller Road about 0.2 miles north of I-90. It's one of those surprising urban sanctuaries where the city seems to fade away once you're inside.

An Angler's Paradise

If fishing is your thing, this lake is worth checking out. It's regularly stocked from the City's Alcove Reservoir and has a reputation for housing some impressive catches - among the biggest in the Capital District, according to locals.

Each spring, around 2,000 rainbow trout make their new home in these waters. Beyond trout, the lake supports an impressive variety: northern pike, chain pickerel, common carp, bluegill, pumpkinseed, largemouth bass, and black crappie all swim these waters.

You can fish from about a third of the shoreline without any special equipment, and there are two dedicated fishing platforms if you want a more stable setup. That said, the local fishing community suggests that the really prime spots are best reached by boat.

Get Out on the Water

While you won't hear any motorboats roaring around (they're not allowed), the park welcomes rowboats, canoes, and kayaks. There's a designated kayak launch area that makes getting on the water a breeze. Paddling out to the deeper, cooler parts of the lake might just reward you with sightings of some of those legendary larger fish.

Trails and Tails

Not into fishing? No problem. The park features several walking trails that connect with the broader Pine Bush Preserve network, ideal for when you just need to stretch your legs or clear your head with a nature walk.

And yes, you can bring your four-legged friend along! The park is notably dog-friendly, requiring only that they stay leashed while you explore the waterfront paths and wooded areas together.

Family-Friendly Features

Six Mile Waterworks makes for a great family day out. Kids can burn off energy at the playground, however it's worth noting it sits relatively close to the road, so keep an eye on little ones.

When hunger strikes, you'll find plenty of picnic tables complete with built-in grills scattered around the park, many offering lovely views of the lake. There's also a small pavilion if you need some shade or are planning a gathering. The open grassy areas provide plenty of space to spread out a blanket and relax.

Restrooms are available near the pavilion area, with portable options sometimes added during busier periods.

Natural Encounters

Being part of the Pine Bush Preserve means this park offers some genuinely interesting bird watching opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot some uncommon species among the regulars.

The trails wind through wooded sections and along the shoreline, offering a surprising natural escape despite occasional highway sounds in the background. Don't be surprised if you're joined by curious geese or other waterfowl during your visit - they're regular residents around the lake.

When to Visit

The park is open year-round from 8AM to 5PM daily. For the full experience with all amenities up and running, plan your visit between the third Saturday in June and Labor Day - that's when all facilities are operational.

If fishing is your primary interest, early spring is prime time thanks to the trout stocking program that gives anglers their best shot at an impressive catch.