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.
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
Grafton Lakes 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.
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