Buckingham Lake Park

Buckingham Lake Park is a public park located in Albany, New York. The park is centered around Buckingham Lake, also known as Buckingham Pond, a man-made body of water with a surface area of approximately 5 acres. The lake has a mean depth of three feet and serves as an important part of Albany's stormwater management system.

The park features a gravel walking path that encircles the lake, measuring about 0.72 miles in length. This path is popular among local residents for walking, jogging, and enjoying the natural surroundings. The park's layout is L-shaped, encompassing both the pond and an adjacent wooded area.

Buckingham Lake Park provides a habitat for various wildlife species. Over 140 types of birds have been reported in the area by local birdwatchers. The park is also home to several Eastern Larch trees, a unique species that sheds its needles seasonally despite resembling evergreens.

The park includes a small playground area designed to be inclusive, welcoming children of all abilities. Picnic tables are available for visitors who wish to enjoy a meal outdoors while taking in views of the lake. During warmer months, three fountains operate in the lake, helping to aerate the water.

In winter, when conditions permit, the frozen surface of Buckingham Lake is sometimes used for ice skating, though this activity is subject to safety testing by local authorities.