5.0Watkins Glen State Park(4.752 reviews) - Beautiful State Park! Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM State Parks
Watkins Glen State Park is a natural wonder located in Upstate New York, about 250 miles from New York City. The highlight here is the 19 waterfalls that cascade down the stream and rock formations—you'll want to take your time exploring them along the hiking trails on offer. The Gorge Trail along Glen Creek is particularly stunning, just be careful of the slippery steps. Consider visiting Watkins Glen State Park on a tour of Niagara Falls from New York City. For fewer crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the day—especially during the peak summer season. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Niagara Falls State Park(4.544 reviews) - An awesome spectacle Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours State Parks • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Waterfalls
A huge expanse of natural beauty, this oldest state park in the U.S. offers biking, fishing and cross-country skiing, and contains plenty of hiking and walking trails, including the Niagara Gorge Trail System, which affords great views of both the falls and the gorge.See more..
4.5Letchworth State Park(1.638 reviews) - Solo trip to the falls Spent More than 3 hours State Parks
Letchworth State Park, the "Grand Canyon of the East," is where a 17-mile stretch of the Genesee River roars through the park's scenic gorge with three major waterfalls and cliffs as high as 600 feet, surrounded by lush forests. Recently named Best State Park in the nation, Letchworth's new Humphrey Nature Center is a must-see. Walk the seven-mile Gorge Trail with jaw-dropping views at the overlooks or take the trail to the water's edge. I addition to trails, several hundred campsites and cabins, other amenities and activities include a pool, playground, athletic fields, festivals, cultural events, history and performing arts programs, guided walks, whitewater rafting, and hot-air ballooning.See more..
4.5Robert Treman State Park(1.348 reviews) - Beautiful gorge experience Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM State Parks
We loved Treman State Park - with the beauty of the lower falls and the swimming area directly below the falls and the raw beauty of the gorge and Lucifer Falls from the upper falls area. This is a spectacular park. Due to the coronavirus pandemic there are a few changes that may impact you if you go during this time. The lower swimming area is limited to 50% of maximum use and when we visited in late June the park was requiring a facemask to enter the area around the swimming pond (masks not required while swimming). The lower falls is a short walk to a really nice falls and the swimming looks very enticing although we were not dressed for swimming. The upper falls area is a few miles on local roads and includes trails on both sides of the gorge. The gorge itself is spectacular with sheer rock cliffs, many small falls and the large Lucifer Falls. Due to the pandemic the gorge trail was marked as one way down gorge and the rim trail was marked for the return to the upper falls parking area. The gorge trail is a work of art that follows the river through the gorge but it has many steps if that is an issue. There is a small waterfall behind the mill building at the upper falls parking lot as well. Entry fees are $8 and are well worth it.See more..
Gorgeous falls in the state park. Easy walk to the falls from the parking lot. You need to pay to walk the trails or have a New York State Park Pass, which we did not have, but you are allowed to park for free for about half an hour or so to see the falls. So peaceful and serene. Well worth a side trip. Wish we had the time to walk the trails in the park.See more..
This National Historic Landmark offers diverse cultural, aesthetic and recreational activities in such venues as the Lincoln mineral baths, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Spa Little Theater, National Museum of Dance and the historic Gideon Putnam Hotel.See more..
This park is amazing! The falls are beautiful! We went in the morning on a fall weekday and it wasn't crowded. There is a $9 parking fee. We were warned by friends in advance that there were a lot of steps! I got tired of counting at 500 and there were many many many more. We took the Gorge Trail up (steps and steps) and the Rim Trail back (only a few steps but some steep down hill areas). There were some very wet areas which made it slippery. (Have extra dry shoes and socks for when you complete your hike.) I am glad to have had my walking stick with me. Some steps were steep and some high and uneven. Coming down the Rim Trail the walking stick was great to have. The fallen leaves covered the trail so it was difficult to see when the ground was uneven, roots sticking up or loose stones. I would not suggest this hike for those with young children or pets due to the nature of the edges with no railing and all the steps. This was a refreshing, beautiful park which we really enjoyed!See more..
Sonnenberg Gardens is a historic estate showcasing nine formal gardens, an antique greenhouse complex, and a Victorian mansion. Sonnenberg also features a gift shop, the Finger Lakes Wine Center, and wedding/reception rental facilities.See more..
4.5Bear Mountain State Park(636 reviews) - A great exhilarating experience! Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM State Parks
Escape New York City’s hectic pace on a day trip to this beautiful park, where you can picnic in the summer, ice skate in the winter, and trek year-round. Stay overnight at a lakeside cabin to explore the hiking trails (over 200 miles!) within the park. Go canoeing or paddle boating in Hessian Lake and see rehabilitated wild animals at the Trailside Zoo. Located less than 50 miles from the Big Apple, Bear Mountain gets jam-packed with New Yorkers on weekends, so visit during the week if you get the chance. Tickets are required to be admitted into the park. – TripadvisorSee more..
We have visited Niagara Falls and Whirlpool State Park several times over the years and it seems to change slightly by season. The amount of water flowing over the falls made this trip different from the others. Access to Whirlpool State Park was easy...and parking was available and free. The views of the river are incredible. We wanted to take the gondola ride from the park to the Canadian side...and back but it was closed. Great place to spend an hour just outside the city.See more..
Formerly the grounds of a hotel, this park offers stunning vistas and uncrowded trails.See more..
4.5Gantry Plaza State Park(487 reviews) - Excellent and free view of Manhattan skyline Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks • Parks
This is a nice public park in Long Island City, from where you have wonderful views of Manhattan's skyline. It is free, and not full of tourist like other places in New York City. There are many options to eat nearbySee more..
This park offers visitors seven miles of beach, two swimming pools, a boardwalk and games.See more..
4.5Goat Island(349 reviews) - Amazing Park! Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas
Goat Island sits in the middle of Niagara Falls, offering many walking trails and viewing points of the surrounding landscapes. Here, you can get a great view of Horseshoe Falls and American Falls from Terrapin Point and Luna Island, explore Cave of the Winds at the bottom of Bridal Veil Falls, and cross over a historic walking bridge to the Three Sisters Islands. The Niagara Scenic Trolley is an easy and scenic way to traverse the island—though walking around the island takes just 30 minutes—there are also tours available that combine it with the Maid of the Mist boat ride to the base of Horseshoe Falls. – TripadvisorSee more..
It's a far place, no doubt about it, but it is really worth it. The ride from New York is generally smooth until you get to the Hamptons when all of a sudden the highway becomes a street, and there are lights. The park itself is wonderfully laid out. There is ample parking, bathroom facilities, picnic tables, and hiking paths. You can get down to the water and walk around the base of the lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is not to be missed. There is a small charge to get into the museum which is the bottom floor of the lighthouse. The exhibits chart the history of the lighthouse, which has never been moved. The efforts to keep the sea at bay are very interesting. Because of covid restrictions, there is no place to buy food here. This is a wonderful day trip from anywhere on Long Island and will supply a lasting memory.See more..
4.5Devil's Hole State Park(258 reviews) - Added stop to Niagara visit Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM State Parks • Hiking Trails
We enjoyed this more than Niagara Falls (stopped here after words based on a recommendation that I received). Devils Hole portion is a little boring. However, we missed the cave that is "Devils Hole" which would probably have made it more exciting. The whirlpools are really cool at the other end and it's a very scenic area (plus its a small fraction of the people at Niagara). The trail description says out and back but you can make this a loop. To do so, begin by heading down the trail to Devils Hole. Once at the bottom and walking along the river, continue doing so until reaching the whirlpools. Once turning around at the whirpools, take the first set of step back up to the top of the gorge and return to the parking area from the top.See more..
4.5Allegany State Park(246 reviews) - ALLEGHANY IS AWESOME FOR SLEDDING!! State Parks
The largest state park in New York that offers hiking trails and camping.See more..
On a beautiful Wednesday during COVID season, we arrived about 9:30 in the morning to walk around a bit and see different views of the lake. It is a good time to arrive. Swimming starts about 11, and the park was much busier when we left. We pretty much had the whole place to ourselves. We went to the oldest covered bridge in the US, and walked a trail there. We drove to the swimming area and walked around, then drove to the Hyde Hall and walked a bit around there. We looked into taking a tour...but it wasn't going until 11 and we didn't have time to stay that long. We were given information about the buildings outside, and we walked around to see them. The Lake is gorgeous from this State Park. We will be back!See more..
4.5Caumsett State Park(219 reviews) - The trials are perfect for beginners State Parks • Parks
Caumsett State Historic Park is a perfect place for a weekend getaway in NYC and it's not crowd at all during our visit on a Sunday morning around 9:30am. The state park is beautiful with amazing lake views and great arrangement. However, there are lots of facilities including restroom and trials that are closed down due to COVID-19. The trails are flat, easy and relaxed for beginners, kids or elders so it’s family-friendly. There is also a huge and magnificent lawn for rest. The parking lot is also under construction so the spaces are limited. We highly recommend to visit earlier to beat the crowd.See more..
Don't miss the Walking Dunes hike! But, be prepared for mosquitos! The past reviews are not kidding. Swarms of big, fat hungry mosquitos. Saw people tucking their arms in their shirt & running back to the entrance! We pushed through & were SO grateful. What a beautiful natural phenomenon! My teens ran up & down & rolling in the dunes for hours. Great numbered informational trail. What?! A forest is buried under the dunes??!! The walk along the beach to get back was the perfect ending.See more..
4.0Artpark(204 reviews) - Great Place for a Hike Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
Artpark, Western New York’s premier music and theater destination, sits atop 150 acres of picturesque land overlooking the Niagara River Gorge. Located in Historic Lewiston, the State Park features a 2,400-seat Mainstage Theater and seating lawn, Outdoor Amphitheater, steel sculptures, picnic areas, hiking trails, historical markers, fishing docks and children’s activities!See more..
I love nothing better than going to the beach. Every year I purchase an Empire pass for $65 which allows for unlimited access to any NY State Park. I live within 7 miles of Jones Beach but travel the extra 14 miles on ocean parkway to go to Robert Moses parking field 5. The things I love most about his Beach is the close proximity from the parking lot to the waters edge, the rest room and concession stand, and the nature path which is. A beautiful walk See more..
Stopped here on a whim while in the area and so happy we did. We followed a stone path that took us through the woods to a lake and back to the main building which was a few miles in total. Really happy we decided to stop here and enjoy the nice sunny day!See more..
Picnic, exercise, then cool off in the falls! Beautiful park with trails to explore on foot. Gorge Trail is closed for construction, so trails leading down to the river are NOT clearly marked and are very steep. Not recommended for young children. Bug spray and drinking water required. Hiking shoes a must! Then take off your shoes and socks and cool off in the stream of the falls. Fun for children and adults of all ages. Fishing is relaxing, too.See more..
4.5Wellesley Island(165 reviews) - Love the Island but Didn't Feel Welcome State Parks • Islands
Wellesley Island is home to a state park, a nature center and museum with trails taking you through marshland, forest and shoreline and three golf courses.See more..
We stayed on Barnhart Island and enjoyed a lovely week of camping. The beach on the river was very nice, not crowded. The water was shallow and warm. Bathrooms were cleaned at least twice a day. Would like to visit again.See more..
4.5Fort Niagara State Park(158 reviews) - Wonderful park! Calm and relaxing experience. State Parks
First time visiting this park on Lake Ontario. Excellent off season experience with friends. We just walked along the lake shore and stayed close to main parking lot, and didn't have much time to see the actual fort. This park is not far from Niagara Falls (about a 15 to 20-minute drive north). We were just mesmerized by the sheer size of Lake Ontario, even though it's the smallest of the Great Lakes. On a clear day, which it was, you can see downtown Toronto from this park, a distance of 30 miles across the water. Overall, wonderful visit and great park!See more..
Beautiful park with nice walking trails. We saw pelicans and otters while there and they have picnic areas. The cost is reasonable and it includes two other parks if you go the same day. Nice and quiet if you want the beauty of Yellowstone without the crowds.See more..
This is a wonderful place for a short walk through old growth forest on conserved farmland, situated on a point of land on Lake Champlain about 30 minutes south of the Canadian border. The surrounding shoreline is composed of very interesting shale, where one can sit quietly while watching gulls fly and colorful sailboats float by. it is a peaceful place but there is also a public swimming beach and Nature Center with educational programs available. I have been told it is great in winter for gentle cross country skiing. A fine spot in summer for a quick touch of Mother Nature in repose. Boats can be put into the lake at 2 locations, and the main access is on Lake Shore Drive which is great for biking and just 10 minutes north of the city Plattsburgh. I noticed a fine looking B+B directly across form the Wildlife Viewing area entrance. See more..
We had our own boat with us so stopped to check it out. Loaded with history of the lighthouses on the St. Lawrence River in general and the Rock Island light house in particular. Staff was wonderful and very knowledgeable. Got to climb to the top and learn some interesting facts about the island and the lighthouse and its keepers. After the tour, we were able to scan the dive area nearby with our boat's sonar to see the outline of a three masted schooner that sank in a storm. Note: you cannot enter a dive area if a boat is tied up and there are divers in the water. The area was clear of divers when we went looking for the wreck on sonarSee more..
Due to emergency repairs, the access road to the Park's main parking lot is temporarily closed to vehicular traffic. The upper parking lot is open with pedestrian-only access along the road to the waterfront, trailhead and bathrooms.See more..
5.0Thacher State Park(132 reviews) - Little a mini NPS Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM State Parks
How did I overlook this little gem over the years, I do not know but it was worth the wait. Although the park is small with easier trails, it is perfect for families or those who want a quick dose of aderlanine. The Indian Ladder trail did not disappoint.See more..
4.5Four Mile Creek State Park(97 reviews) - Great Camping Option When Visiting Niagara Falls State Parks
This is a great campground to stay at while visiting Niagara Falls and it's only about 30 minutes from most of the major tourist attractions in town. The staff are friendly, the park is pretty clean, and the shower house is decent. The view of Lake Ontario from behind the park is absolutely breathtaking and several campers turned up each evening to sit on the beach and enjoy the show. There's a nice playground and the store seems to be well stocked with staple items (though we didn't purchase anything here). Be careful when selecting sites as many are incredibly sloped/hilly, several have absolutely no shade, and some are bare ground vs being grassy, which leads to a mud-filled experience if it rains (which happened while we stayed and our gear paid for it). When staying at Four Mile Creek State Park you are issued a parking pass that offers free parking at several other tourist sites (such as Cave of the Winds).See more..
4.5Peebles Island State Park(91 reviews) - Hidden Gem in the Midst of Urban Development Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM State Parks
I am a member of the volunteer group "Friends of Peebles Island" which helps to preserve and promote the park. The island is mostly wooded and has about 3 miles of trails on it. You can hike the perimeter and see lots of deer and an eagle's nest. There are cliffs and waterfalls along the way. The island is also home to a former textile complex. The buildings are a state facility where historic artifacts are repaired and restored. The park also has a pavillian that can be rented out for functions. Lots of history on the island and it offers a site to relax and watch the boats, take a hike, or have a leisurely picnic. The island is scenic and in the midst of an urban setting. However, once on the island, you no longer feel like you are in the city. It is peaceful and quiet.See more..
This is a huge campground and as far as we could find, almost all of the camp sites were in the sun. The one that we stayed at was large and there was a nice playground a short walk away. We did not take advantage of any of the hiking trails as we only stayed for four days. The beach is on the St. Lawrence River but is very small. It seems that most people go here for boating, fishing and kayaking. We stayed there when the climate was very hot and humid and with our campsite in the sun, it was uncomfortable. There is a nature center that we could not see because we were too late. The hours were only 9:00 to 3:00. Upon driving around the campground, it seems like there are a variety of activities for children. Mostly I gave it 4 stars because we were in the sun and it was not what I anticipated based on the campsite photo. It’s very difficult to get campsites at New York State Campgrounds. People must book them far in advance.See more..
4.0Delta Lake State Park(74 reviews) - One of the best State parks in NY State Parks • Parks
Sitting on our 'little gem' Delta Lake, this is a beautiful state park with beach, camping and picnic amenitiesSee more..
...as I usually did buzzing down the Taconic. 14,000 acres. Several lakes here, we were on Canopus Lake and rented a kayak for a modest fee adjacent to a sandy beach with shaded picnic areas. Restrooms, changing areas and a food kiosk all an easy walk. ADA accessible. Fee for entry, check the website. See more..
We used All Trails to guide us on the Conservation to Gasline Loop, approximately 4-5 miles of easy to moderate trails. Some muddy areas and 2 crossings of the 11 mile creek which might necessitate slowly foraging across its approximately 12’ width. There are stepping stones but difficult to traverse the creek using these stones. I took off my shoes and went barefoot carefully as the rock bedding was slippery. We did not see any wildlife but evidence of the trail used for horseback riding. See more..
4.0Beaver Island State Park(59 reviews) - Sheer Beauty Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM State Parks
Came to play disc golf and was amazed all the facility had to offer (didn't even see it all). DG course was beautiful offering variety. BBQ'd near beautiful beach. There is regular golf, some sort of reception hall Marina, and I am sure more. People were practicing yoga on Paddleboards, and ashore to. NYS Empire Pass accepted.See more..
Lake Taghkanic State Park is a great place to spend the day with family or friends and appreciate the outdoors. One may pack a picnic and eat at one of the peaceful areas around the lake or sit near the beach, take a swim or dip one's toes in the water on a hot day. The bathrooms are very clean and have showers. No need to take the sand home with you. There are very nice playgrounds and food for sale. The park also has trails, including one that circles the entire lake. The white trail will take one past cabins, near the lake and through wooded areas. That trail is about five miles long with some very scenic views. One may rent a paddle or rowboat as well. There are cabins to rent as well.See more..
Had an amazing hike here. Total trail distance is around 4 miles. Trail can be slightly difficult at times if you have limited mobility. Elevation range is from start 900 ft to 1372 ft at the top with a total elevation gain of around 771 ft. Total hiking time was 3 and a half hours with about 2 hours total in moving time. The views at the top and sitting areas are perfect for a picnic, date, family outing, exercise and great for dogs. We saw probably 14 dogs on our hike. Parking is a little bit of a hassle with the trailhead entrance and lot located directly off of the highway. But if you get there early or on a weekday you’re guaranteed to get a spot. Everyone maintained great COVID distancing and wore appropriate face coverings when required. See more..
4.5Cedar Point State Park(52 reviews) - Daypass at Cedar Point State Park State Parks • Parks
Cedar Point State Park is a short drive from Clayton or Alexandria Bay, inexpensive admission for day pass, dog friendly, clean and very scenic. The beach area was clean and not overcrowded. it was a low key and relaxing day spent water side, with bathhouse, rest rooms close by. Camp sites look great and may consider a return visit some day to camp with the family.See more..
Well organized trail system with lots of easy, available parking. I took the easy Cornish Estate trail, which is about one mile in and one mile out. Mostly flat terrain, with a little uphill incline at the end. At the end are very cool ruins that make for good photos. There are more challenging trails. Near Beacon, NY, which is home to Bannerman Castle. Some quaint little shops in the nearby downtown. Could make a nice little day trip from NYC.See more..
Nice surprise, we didn’t know what to expect from a state park but the beach turned out to be very nice. We were able to walk for several miles on the beach and it was very clean. We also took a walk through the campground and it appeared nice and well maintained. It looks like they are doing some construction but not on the weekend.See more..
4.5Moreau Lake State Park(41 reviews) - I forgot how nice this park is Spent More than 3 hours State Parks
Haven’t been here in 20 years and didn’t remember that it’s so big. Great place to walk during COVID restrictions both on hard surfaces or trails if you want. Mostly a campground but has a beach. Free entry during off season and current state of emergency. Dogs on leash welcome.See more..
4.5Sterling Forest State Park(40 reviews) - Perfect relaxing spot! Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM State Parks
Me and my husband visited Sterling Forest State Park the end of July and really enjoyed our time there. This park offers parking area, visitor's center and restrooms. At the visitor's center, they're very nice and offer a map so you can start your hiking day based on the number of miles you plan to walk. Hiking was not difficult based on our experience and the lake views are amazing! we loved the fact that even though swimming is not allowed, I was able to soak my feet in the water; so relaxing and peaceful. There were only a few hikers and since the park is so big, we hardly meet people. I highly recommend this park specially during this difficult time when social distance is so important. Plan your day at Sterling Forest State Park and enjoy it!!!See more..
What a beautiful state park! We rented a two 4 person cabins each with 2 rooms, a sleeping area with 2 bunkbeds and a main area to hang out with a table and chairs, heater and a fridge. We had to bring our own cookstove. What makes this place so beautiful is that it is completely surrounded on 3 sides by the St. Lawrence Seaway. Our first morning fishing (we went as a group of old fishing buddies but it would certainly work for a couple or small family) we witnessed an eagle swoop down and grab a fish that my friend was reeling in. Quite a sight! We went in September and the weather was 70's during the day and 50's at night (just right for a campfire) and we were right on the shore. Swimming was available but September is a little cool for me. Anyway it was a very relaxing time by itself or you can try some of the activities (like a boat ride to Boldt Castle which sits in the middle of the St. Lawrence River) in Alexandria Bay (or golfing at one of the picturesque golf courses. Great way to spend a week of vacation.See more..
5.0Adirondack Park(38 reviews) - ALWAYS wonderful! State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
The largest park in the lower 48 states offers year-round outdoor and indoor environmental activities for all ages.See more..
4.0Higley Flow State Park(36 reviews) - Good park, way too hot showers -scalding. State Parks
As kayakers, we liked the park. Had a site with easy access to the water. Spent a week. Surprisingly little wildlife - one doe with her twins, one heron, couple ducks and a turtle. No sparrows, robins, rabbits, woodchucks, squirrels, etc. Toilets were new, large, and clean. One drawback was the showers; also new, large, and clean, but no temperature control and each offered only scalding hot water. Had to jump in then immediately out. Couldn't imagine having a child use them.See more..
