New York State Parks

Watkins Glen State Park

Welcome to the main page for New York State Parks. This page is designed to provide information related to the many state parks located in the state of New York. Below you will a list of all the state parks in New York along with the address of the parks. Click on the links below for the individual state parks where you can find detailed information specific to that park.

The State of New York Park Quick Facts:
164 State Parks | 4 National Wildlife Refuges | 3 State Forests | 3 National Historic Sites | 1 State Wildlife Area | 1 State Wildlife Management Area | 1 National Historic Park | 1 National Recreation Area | 1 National Seashore
So many beautiful resources in one State; Priceless

New York State Parks Adventures

Camping

Planning to get away from the urban jungle? Then camping amid the lush forests found in the outskirts of the Empire State is your best bet! Hither Hills State Park has some of the best views in the United States with over 189 campsites situated on by the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

The 600-acre Wildwood State Park also has incredible camping grounds, some of which are located on a high bluff overlooking Long Island Sound. Additionally, guests may avail of the newly-built cottages situated among towering trees, which are big enough to fit between two to six people.

At least 50 sites can be found at Minnewaska State Park Preserve, a destination perfect for outdoor lovers looking to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of New York. Wake up to breathtaking views of the Shawangunk Mountains at this lovely park. Follow a checklist and pack your gear for a great time in nature. Split some wood and enjoy a nice campfire with friends and family.

Boast ing of over 550 campsites, the sprawling Hammonasset Beach State Park is undoubtedly a favorite destination for many. The park also offers wooden rustic cabins that are equipped with bunk beds for those looking for a more modern camping experience.

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Hiking

For a short and sweet afternoon hike, take the 2.4-mile Gorge and Indian Trail found at Watkins Glen State Park. This route will take you through caves, across bridges, and over waterfalls – 19 of them, to be exact! One of the more popular parks in the Finger Lakes region, you’ll definitely run into tons of crowds here so be prepared for a crowded hike through stunning landscapes.

At Robert H. Treman State Park, one of the more popular hiking routes is the Rim and Gorge Trail, which winds through the incredible Treman Gorge, which features over a dozen waterfalls, including the cascading 115-foot Lucifer Falls. This challenging route culminates in a refreshing swimming hole under the waterfalls – a perfect ending to a great day!

Those looking for a longer and more challenging hike should take on the seven-mile Gorge Trail at Letchworth State Park, which offers views of Letchworth Gorge. Commonly referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this breathtaking natural wonder is definitely a must-see.

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Backpacking

For a breathtaking and lengthy adventure through the Empire State, head over to Allegany State Park, which features a 22-mile backpacking trail that will take you through beautiful forests and picturesque streams. This route features three shelters and is especially beautiful in the fall.

Another 22-mile loop can also be found at Harriman State Park. This route encompasses Island Pond, Lake Tiorati, and the Appalachian Trail so you’ll undoubtedly have plenty of incredible and unforgettable views. Those of you looking to explore the natural beauty of New York will certainly fall in love with this lengthy and moderately difficult trail. The temperatures can get cool, so it’s a good idea to bring a backpacking thermometer with you.

For an even longer backpacking adventure, head over to the 28-mile Shawangunk Ridge Trail, which will circle through Minnewaska State Park. With many vistas, natural wonders, and towering waterfalls, the scenery offered by this route can’t be found anywhere else.

Fishing

The ten-acre Cedar Island State Park may not be as extensive as others in New York but the fishing opportunities found here are well worth it. Anglers will enjoy casting their lines for northern pike, muskie, walleye, and many other varieties of fish. As one of the more isolated parks in the Empire State, those looking for some peace and isolation will undoubtedly feel at home here.

Hither Hills State Park is also a popular fishing destination with its waters teeming with flounder and striped bass. But don’t be surprised if you manage to reel in the occasional shark, eel, or ray too!

Fishing enthusiasts trying their luck at Watkins Glen State Park will most probably take home an incredible bounty of landlocked salmon, lake trout, yellow perch, and even a feisty northern pike. Even if they don’t, the scenic views on the lake will make the trip well worth it.

Hunting

Many areas in New York allow hunting, provided that those participating have the proper permits from the Park Manager and are well-versed with the regulations. Those looking to pursue some game should check out the public hunting areas found at Allegany State Park, Minnewaska State Park, John Boyd Thacher State Park, and more.

Day Use Areas

From scenic rivers to fields full of fragrant blooms, there’s no shortage of great picnic spots in New York! Heckscher State Park Beach is a crowd favorite with incredible views of Long Island’s south shore, as well as plenty of shady groves perfect for a quick game of frisbee. After your meal, be sure to walk off all those calories on the park’s many nature trails.

Letchworth State Park offers picnickers sweeping and romantic views of the Genesee River. Scenery like this shouldn’t be missed out on!

Many consider Lake Erie State Park to be a picnicker’s paradise with an abundance of shelters, as well as playgrounds where your kids can frolic about. High bluffs, a scenic shoreline, and sandy beach areas make this park popular among residents and out-of-state visitors alike.

If you want a stunning picnic like no other, then head over to Chittenango Falls State Park where you can take in views of a cascading 167-foot waterfall crashing over ancient bedrock. Situated by the Cazenovia Lake, this criminally underrated park will make for a memorable experience.

Biking

Plenty of mountain biking trails are found at John Boyd Thacher State Park, featuring epic overlooks of New York’s stunning countryside. These routes will take riders through some of the roughest terrain found in the United States so only the most skilled and the most experienced should take these on.

The 28-mile Two Gorges Tour is another challenging biking trail that runs between Taughannock Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park. Riders looking to take their skills to the next level should definitely try this out!

For a scenic ride, take the Great Gorge Railway Trail, which will take you to a great many amazing viewpoints, including Whirlpool State Park. Here, watch rapids churn and morph away into an awe-inspiring whirlpool! Those who want an adventure like no other would do well to take on this trail. It’s a great place to enjoy cycling.

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Boating

Perhaps the best spot for sailing and recreational boating in the Empire State, Seneca Lake State Park features several public boat launches, as well as a marina. Those wishing for a picturesque excursion out on the water will surely love the views surrounding Seneca Lake.

Bird watching

Niagara Falls State Park is renowned all over the world for being one of the best sites to observe a variety of gulls, especially during the wintertime. Keep an eye out for the many Boreal Chickadees and Gray Jays that have made their homes within the park’s diverse habitats.

Millions of Bird watching enthusiasts grab their birding binoculars and flock to Jones Beach State Park, which features a ton of environments where a ton of bird varieties can be found. Offshore, watch out for the Harlequin Duck and the Northern Gannet while the Horned Lark, the American Pipit, and the Snowy Owl can be spotted on land. Beaches are also great for observing the Piping Plover and the American Oystercatcher.

Montauk State Park is included in many Birders’ bucket list due to the hundreds of bird species found within. Plenty of bird species frequent the park during the migration season and rarities like the Lark Sparrow have also been spotted by many. Red-throated Loons, Razorbills, and the Purple Sandpiper are also in abundance within the park. Remember it doesn’t take a lot of money to get started with bird watching. You can pick up a pair of budget binoculars for birding with decent quality fairly inexpensively.

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Beaches

One of the more popular swimming holes in New York is Robert Moses State Park where over five miles of glistening white sand can be found. Set up your beach umbrella, bring a cooler, a nice beach blanket, and treat yourself for the day. Swim in the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and take in views of many historical spots, such as the Fire Island Lighthouse. The park is also home to one of the most well-known nude beaches in Long Island, which can be reached by following paths through to the Island’s National Seashore.

Those looking for a more activity-filled day on the water are sure to love the opportunities found at Jones Beach State Park. A clothing-optional beach, a ton of eateries, and concession stalls, as well as many recreational activities, can all be found in this park.

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Golf Courses

Known all over the United States, the scenic Bethpage Black Golf Course is found within Bethpage State Park. In 2019, it hosted the 101st PGA Championship – proof that this course is more than legit!

The nine-hole golf course found at Jones Beach State Park is extremely popular with families, especially those accompanied by young kids interested in the sport.

Caving

Sam’s Point, part of the Minnewaska State Park Preserve, includes one of the five Shawangunk Mountains, as well as plenty of ice caves that attract adventurous spelunkers. A 5,000-acre naturally rare and significant area, this spot is undoubtedly a must-visit for all those interested in all things related to caving and underground wonders.

Restaurants and Dining

For some of the best meals in New York, sit down for an incredible meal at Glen Iris Inn in Letchworth State Park. The dining room offers stunning views of the Middle Falls on the Genesee River and with a menu boasting of delicious entrees and desserts, an experience like no other is definitely guaranteed!

Winter Sports

Commonly referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park has a whole host of winter activities; featuring over 60 miles of trails perfect for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, as well as excellent terrain for snow tubing, this is undoubtedly a winter destination that you don’t want to miss out on. No need to worry if you love the outdoors but hate the cold.  A heated jacket will keep you warm for hours on the coldest of days.

Saratoga Spa State Park also has approximately 12 miles of trails that guests can take on either in show shoes or on skis. Explore the stunning natural landscapes found at this park as they lie covered in snow.

Orienteering

An orienteering course of Surebridge Mountain can be found at Harriman State Park. Those interested in testing their outdoorsy skills should definitely try their luck with this challenging adventure!

Complete New york State Park List and Addresses

Here is a complete list of all the state parks in New York along with the address for each park. Enjoy all that New York has to offer for outdoor actives and natural beauty.

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Below is a table of the 50 States in the US, with a link to the individual pages. Each individual page has a list of state parks, along with the address. You can link to the individual parks from there.

America’s State Parks

See the latest on our homepage at www.americasstateparks.org.