Grafton Lakes State Park
Grafton Lakes State Park encompasses nearly 2,500 acres between the Taconic Mountains and Hudson Valley, offering one of the Capital Region’s premier destinations for swimming, hiking, and year-round outdoor recreation. Centered around scenic Long Pond, the park features 25 miles of trails, a lifeguarded beach, and stunning views from the Dickinson Hill Fire Tower.
Park Overview
| Park Size | 2,500 acres |
| Trail Miles | 25 miles |
| Swimming | Long Pond Beach (lifeguarded) |
| Camping | Not available on-site |
| Boat Launch | Electric motors only |
Swimming at Long Pond
Long Pond features a large sandy beach with lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day (10am-6pm). Roped swimming areas for both shallow and deep water. Volleyball nets available.
Note: Pets and glass containers not permitted on beach.
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Pond Loop | 2.5 mi | Easy | Scenic pond views, flat terrain |
| Dickinson Hill Fire Tower Trail | 3.0 mi | Moderate | Panoramic views: Adirondacks, Green Mtns |
| Shaver Pond Nature Trail | 1.2 mi | Easy | Wetland wildlife, birding |
Fishing
- Brown Trout
- Largemouth u0026 Smallmouth Bass
- Chain Pickerel
- Yellow Perch
- Sunfish
NYS fishing license required. Ice fishing in winter.
Boating
All ponds have boat launches for canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and rowboats. Electric motors permitted; gas motors prohibited. Boat rentals available at Long Pond.
Winter Activities
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Snowmobiling
- Ice Skating (conditions permitting)
- Ice Fishing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there camping at Grafton Lakes?
No, Grafton Lakes State Park does not offer overnight camping. Nearby private campgrounds and other state parks have camping.
Are motorboats allowed?
Electric motors only. Gas-powered motorboats are prohibited.
