🌤 Weather at Schunnemunk Mountain State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27–72 °F | 58–83 °F | 32–74 °F | 17–39 °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 Stormville, 22 mi away, elevation 915 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Schunnemunk Mountain State Park is a public state park in New York near Highland Mills in Orange County. Spanning 2,700 acres and established in 2003, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | New York |
| Nearest City | Highland Mills |
| County | Orange |
| Park Size | 2,700 acres |
| Established | 2003 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Schunnemunk Mountain State Park is located near Highland Mills, New York. The park’s coordinates are 41.3917, -74.1164.
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
Schunnemunk Mountain 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
Schunnemunk Mountain SP — 3,600 acres — features the highest summit in Orange County (1,664 feet) with panoramic views of the Hudson Highlands and Catskills. The ridgetop’s distinctive purple conglomerate rock — a unique geological formation — creates a striking landscape. Timber rattlesnakes inhabit rocky crevices. Peregrine falcons hunt from above. Black bears roam the backcountry.
Nearby Attractions
Cornwall — adjacent. Storm King Art Center — 5 miles east — has the outdoor sculpture park. West Point — 10 miles east — has the US Military Academy. Harriman SP — 5 miles south.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Trail View State Park (a short drive away) or Storm King State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Schunnemunk Mountain 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 Schunnemunk Mountain 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 Schunnemunk Mountain State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
