Cherry Plain State Park
Cherry Plain State Park is a tranquil 175-acre retreat centered around scenic Black River Pond, a 34.6-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and paddling. Located 19 miles southeast of Grafton in Rensselaer County, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape with sandy beaches, camping, and access to over 4,000 additional acres in the surrounding Capital District Wildlife Management Area.
Park Overview
| Park Size | 175 acres |
| Black River Pond | 34.6 acres |
| Campsites | 30 sites |
| Wildlife Area | 4,153 acres adjacent |
| Motorboats | Not allowed |
Swimming u0026 Beach
A sandy beach on Black River Pond provides a wonderful swimming spot. Note: No lifeguards on duty – swim at your own risk.
Fishing
Black River Pond offers excellent fishing for:
- Largemouth Bass
- Bullheads
- Pickerel
Ice fishing permitted in winter. NYS fishing license required.
Camping
| Site Type | Sites | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sites | ~20 | Picnic table, fire pit, tent/RV |
| Lakeside Sites | Limited | Water views, quick beach access |
| Hike-In Tent Sites | Several | Secluded, primitive |
Amenities: Clean restrooms, hot showers. Pets allowed (2 max, leashed). Reserve up to 9 months ahead.
Paddling u0026 Boating
No motorized boats allowed on Black River Pond, making it peaceful for paddlers. Rowboats and paddle boats available for rent. Bring your own kayak or canoe.
Hiking u0026 Trails
Trails connect to the adjoining Capital District Wildlife Management Area (4,153 acres). Explore the historic Charcoal Kiln Site. Winter activities include cross-country skiing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim at Cherry Plain State Park?
Yes! There’s a sandy beach on Black River Pond for swimming. No lifeguards on duty.
Are motorboats allowed?
No. Black River Pond is motor-free, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and rowboating.
Things to Do
New York’s state park system is one of the largest and most diverse in the nation, spanning glacier-carved gorges in the Finger Lakes, the wild Adirondack backcountry, dramatic Hudson Valley cliffs, sweeping Long Island beaches, and Niagara Falls. Activities range widely: hiking dramatic gorge trails with waterfalls at every turn, swimming at supervised lake and ocean beaches, fishing in world-class trout streams and bass lakes, camping in old-growth forests, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, mountain biking through rolling terrain, rock climbing at the Shawangunk Ridge, kayaking the Thousand Islands, and golfing at scenic state park courses. Many parks also feature historic estates, Revolutionary War sites, and nature centers with educational programs.
Best Time to Visit
New York’s parks transform dramatically with the seasons. Summer (June–August) is peak season for swimming, waterfalls, and camping — gorge parks like Watkins Glen and Letchworth are busiest during this time. Fall (September–October) brings world-class foliage, especially in the Adirondacks and Hudson Valley, peaking mid-to-late October. Spring (April–May) delivers peak waterfall flow and wildflower blooms, though many gorge trails don’t fully open until mid-May. Winter (December–March) turns Adirondack parks into cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paradises. Note that many gorge trails and swimming areas are closed November through May for safety — always check the park website before visiting.
Visitor Tips
New York state parks charge per-vehicle parking fees ranging from $6 to $10, depending on the park and season. An Empire Pass ($80/year) provides unlimited access to all state parks and is a smart investment for regular visitors. Camping reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica up to 9 months in advance. Popular parks like Watkins Glen and Letchworth sell out months ahead for summer camping. Many gorge parks have mandatory parking reservations on peak weekends — check the park website before driving out. Dogs are allowed in most parks on leash but are typically prohibited on beaches and in gorge trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Empire Pass cost?
The Empire Pass costs $80 per year and provides unlimited vehicle entry to all New York state parks, historic sites, and recreation areas. It is available at any state park entrance or online through the NY Parks website.
When is the best time for fall foliage in New York state parks?
Fall foliage in New York typically peaks from late September in the Adirondacks to mid-October in the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes region. Letchworth and Bear Mountain State Parks are especially popular for leaf peeping.
Are gorge trails open year-round in New York?
Most gorge trails, including those at Watkins Glen, Robert H. Treman, and Buttermilk Falls, are closed from roughly November through May due to ice and safety concerns. Rim trails often remain open year-round.
Can I camp at New York state parks?
Yes, many New York state parks offer tent camping, RV sites, and cabins. Reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica up to 9 months in advance. Popular parks fill quickly for summer and fall weekends.
Explore More New York State Parks
Cherry Plain State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New York. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New York guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
