🏆 Official Guide: Whetstone Gulf State Park — A dramatic park in Lewis County on the Tug Hill Plateau, New York, featuring a spectacular 3-mile-long, 380-foot-deep gorge, a 5–6 mile gorge rim loop trail with stunning canyon views, 56+ wooded campsites (some with electric), a man-made swimming area with sand beach, fishing at Whetstone Reservoir (tiger muskie!), and excellent winter recreation on the Tug Hill Plateau.
Whetstone Gulf State Park is built around one of the most impressive geological formations in New York State — a three-mile-long, 380-foot-deep gorge carved into the eastern edge of the Tug Hill Plateau. The park’s signature rim trail circles this dramatic canyon, offering breathtaking views from both sides while the forested campground provides a peaceful base for exploring one of the snowiest regions in the eastern United States.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lewis County, NY — Tug Hill Plateau |
| Gorge | 3 miles long, 380 feet deep |
| Campsites | 56+ wooded sites — some with electric hookups |
| Swimming | Man-made area with sand beach — seasonal |
| Contact | (315) 376-6630 |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Hiking | Gorge Rim Trail — 5–6 mi loop, moderate, spectacular views |
| Camping | 56+ wooded sites — tables, fire pits, flush toilets, hot showers |
| Swimming | Man-made area with sand beach — seasonal, lifeguard-dependent |
| Fishing | Whetstone Reservoir — tiger muskie, largemouth bass |
| Canoeing | Whetstone Reservoir — calm water |
| Picnicking | Along Whetstone Creek — tables + grills |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Winter trails — excellent snow coverage |
| Snowshoeing | Winter — Tug Hill receives massive snowfall |
| Snowmobiling | Connected to regional snowmobile trail network |
The Gorge
The Whetstone Gulf Gorge is a 3-mile-long canyon cut into shale and sandstone, reaching depths of 380 feet. The popular Gorge Rim Trail (5–6 miles) circles the entire canyon, crossing from one rim to the other at both ends. Hikers are rewarded with dramatic viewpoints looking down into the forested ravine. The trail is moderately challenging with some steep sections — allow 3–4 hours for the full loop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the gorge rim trail?
The Gorge Rim Trail is rated moderate. The full 5–6 mile loop takes 3–4 hours and includes some steep sections and uneven terrain. The views of the 380-foot-deep canyon are spectacular and well worth the effort.
Is there a pool or natural swimming area?
The park has a man-made swimming area with a sand beach — not a swimming pool and not in the gorge. Swimming availability depends on water quality and lifeguard coverage. Check with the park office for current conditions.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Pixley Falls State Park is within about an hour’s drive, and Nicks Lake Campground and Day Use Area is within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for New York state parks online at newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
Park Location
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