🌤 Weather at Fillmore Glen State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–66 °F | 53–79 °F | 29–70 °F | 12–35 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Freeville 1 NE, 12 mi away, elevation 1,050 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Fillmore Glen State Park preserves a spectacular narrow gorge in the Finger Lakes region, featuring five stunning waterfalls carved by Dry Creek. Named after President Millard Fillmore who was born nearby, this Cayuga County gem combines dramatic geology with camping, swimming, and year-round recreation.
Park Overview
| Waterfalls | 5 waterfalls in gorge |
| Campsites | 60 sites (10 electric) |
| Cabins | 3 cabins available |
| Swimming | Stream-fed pool |
| Featured | Millard Fillmore birthplace replica |
Waterfalls & Gorge
The densely wooded gorge contains five distinct waterfalls including the famous Cowsheds Falls (56 ft over three tiers) and an impressive 60-80 ft cascade. The gorge trail features stone-walled paths and eight bridges crossing Dry Creek.
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Season | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gorge Trail | Late Spring-Fall | Moderate | Waterfalls, 8 bridges, caves |
| North Rim Trail | Year-round | Moderate | Gorge overlooks |
| South Rim Trail | Year-round | Moderate | Forest views |
Note: Gorge trail subject to seasonal closures for winter damage/spring cleanup.
Camping
60 campsites (10 with electric hookups) and 3 cabins with electricity, stove, refrigerator, and 4 beds. Season: Mid-May to Mid-October.
Swimming Pool
Unique stream-fed swimming pool offers refreshing summer swimming in a natural setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed at Fillmore Glen State Park?
New York State Parks allows up to two pets per campsite at Fillmore Glen, on a leash no longer than six feet and under control at all times; proof of rabies vaccination may be requested. Pets are not permitted in buildings, playgrounds, pools, spray-grounds, on boardwalks or at guarded beaches. The park publishes no trail-by-trail pet rule — check current trail notices before you go, since the Gorge Trail has been closed outright at times for reasons unrelated to pets.
When is the gorge trail open?
Late spring to late fall. The trail closes in winter and may have delayed opening due to spring maintenance.
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.
Explore More New York State Parks
Fillmore Glen 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.
Wildlife & Nature
Fillmore Glen SP — features a dramatic gorge with five waterfalls and a natural swimming pool at the base. Named for President Millard Fillmore (13th President), who was born in a log cabin nearby in 1800. The gorge — carved through shale and limestone — has cool, fern-draped walls. Eastern phoebe nests behind the falls. Red efts cross the trails.
Nearby Attractions
Moravia — adjacent — has the Fillmore birthplace replica. Ithaca — 25 miles south — has Cornell and gorge trails. Owasco Lake — 5 miles north — has the Finger Lake. Auburn — 10 miles north — has Harriet Tubman NHP.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Taughannock Falls State Park (a short drive away) or Allan H. Treman State Marine Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Fillmore Glen State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 ft required, pet under control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on guarded beaches, boardwalks, pools or spray-grounds
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- No uniform statewide rule — pets are prohibited in buildings and most cabins, but some parks designate pet-friendly cabin areas (e.g. Letchworth Cabin Area C); check with the individual park
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Proof of rabies vaccination required upon request; maximum two pets per campsite; some parks (e.g. Wildwood State Park) do not allow pets at all
Are dogs allowed at Fillmore Glen State Park?
Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ny.gov. More: New York state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Fillmore Glen State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Ithaca
from $389
from $389
from $1,479