New York’s 12 Most Beautiful State Parks (I’ve Been to Them All)

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New York isn’t just skyscrapers and city streets. It’s got waterfalls that thunder into mist-filled gorges, lakes as smooth as glass, and mountains where the only sounds are wind in the trees and the call of a distant hawk. I’ve traveled this state more times than I can count, and I’ve explored every park in this guide, from the shores of Long Island to the high peaks of the Adirondacks.

I’ve hiked the rim of Watkins Glen, where stone staircases wind past 19 waterfalls in less than two miles. I’ve stood on the cliffs at Letchworth, watching the Genesee River carve its way through a canyon so deep it’s called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” In the Catskills, I’ve walked forest trails that open to sweeping overlooks, and on the Finger Lakes, I’ve paddled beneath sunlit bluffs with nothing but the sound of my paddle cutting through the water. Even downstate, places like Jones Beach and Bear Mountain offer escapes where you can swap car horns for ocean waves or mountain breezes in under an hour from NYC. Each of these 12 state parks tells a different New York story…with rugged wilderness, pastoral landscapes, coastal retreats. I’ve been lucky enough to experience them all firsthand!

New York’s Best State Parks at a Glance

I’ve been exploring New York for years, and I’ve visited every park in this guide — from the beaches of Long Island to the waterfalls of the Finger Lakes and the high peaks of the Adirondacks. If you want the quick version, here’s what I’ve learned:

• Best time to visit: Late spring for rushing waterfalls, summer for swimming and boating, fall for peak foliage, and winter for skiing and snowshoeing.
• Top parks for waterfalls: Watkins Glen (19 waterfalls in 2 miles), Taughannock Falls (215-foot drop), and Letchworth (“Grand Canyon of the East”).
• Best for hiking: Minnewaska for cliffside lake views, Catskill State Park for challenging peaks, Harriman for endless forest trails.
• Perfect for a quick city escape: Bear Mountain and Jones Beach — both under an hour from NYC.
• Best for camping: Allegany State Park, Wildwood State Park (coastal camping), and Frontier Town in the Adirondacks.
• Most photogenic spots: Watkins Glen in early morning light, Letchworth in autumn, and Gantry Plaza at sunset with the Manhattan skyline.
• Money-saving tip: If you’re visiting more than a few parks, grab the Empire Pass — unlimited seasonal entry for one vehicle.

New York’s state parks aren’t just day trips…they’re destinations in their own right, each with a different story to tell and a reason to come back in every season.

1. Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park honestly lives up to its “Grand Canyon of the East” reputation, and I’ve been blown away every single time I’ve visited. The Genesee River has carved this incredible gorge with three major waterfalls that’ll make your jaw drop – Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls.

The park has over 60 miles of trails, so you can definitely find something that matches your hiking level. I love the Gorge Trail for waterfall views, but if you want those classic rim shots, hit up the Great Bend Overlook or Inspiration Point. The overlooks are accessible by car if hiking isn’t your thing, which is pretty convenient.

Here’s what you need to know for 2025: parking fees are $8-10 per vehicle depending on the season (April through November), or grab the Empire Pass for $80 and you’re covered for the whole year at any New York State Park. The Humphrey Nature Center offers guided tours and educational programs that are actually pretty interesting.

White-water rafting on the Genesee River runs from late spring through early fall, and companies like Letchworth State Park Rafting offer guided trips starting around $45 per person. Hot air balloon rides are available through Balloons Over Letchworth for about $225 per person – pricey but the views are incredible.

Fall is absolutely the best time to visit when the leaves are changing, but honestly, it gets crowded. I went on a Tuesday in October last year and still had to wait for parking spots. Spring is great for waterfall flow when the snow melts, and summer offers the most activities, but winter transforms the place into this frozen wonderland that’s surprisingly peaceful.

2. Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is basically nature’s own cathedral, and it’s probably the most Instagram-worthy spot in the Finger Lakes. The famous Gorge Trail takes you past 19 waterfalls in just 1.5 miles, including the iconic Rainbow Falls with that stone bridge everyone photographs.

Here’s the construction heads-up for 2025: starting July 7th, the main tunnel entrance and Sentry Bridge will be closed for major reconstruction. Don’t panic though – you can still access the Gorge Trail through the North Rim Trail at the main entrance, or use the South Entrance or North Entrance. They’re running shuttles between entrances for $6, which honestly beats hiking back uphill.

Parking costs $10 per vehicle during peak season, but if you’re staying at the campground, that fee is included. The Gorge Trail typically opens May 10th and closes in late October depending on weather conditions. Pro tip: get there early, like before 9am, because this place gets absolutely mobbed on weekends and during summer.

The swimming pool at the south end is Olympic-sized and perfect for cooling off after the hike. I’ve stayed at the campground multiple times, and it’s one of the best in New York with 305 sites, hot showers, and a playground. Book way in advance though – up to 9 months ahead for summer weekends.

The hike itself takes about 2 hours round-trip if you’re stopping for photos (which you will). The stone steps can be slippery when wet, so wear decent hiking shoes. No dogs allowed on the Gorge Trail, but they’re welcome on the rim trails and in camping areas.

• Read next: Amazing Places to Visit in Upstate New York

3. Adirondack Park

Adirondack Park is massive – we’re talking 6 million acres, which makes it larger than some states. This isn’t just one park; it’s a patchwork of public and private land with over 3,000 lakes and 30,000 miles of rivers and streams. I’ve been exploring it for years and still haven’t scratched the surface.

Lake Placid is the crown jewel, especially if you’re into Olympic history from the 1980 Winter Games. The Olympic Center offers tours for $15 adults, $10 kids, and you can actually stand where the “Miracle on Ice” happened. Mirror Lake right in town is perfect for kayaking and swimming, with rentals available from Placid Waters starting at $25/hour for kayaks.

For hiking, Mount Marcy is New York’s highest peak at 5,344 feet, but it’s a serious 14.8-mile round-trip commitment. I prefer Cascade Mountain for incredible views with a more manageable 4.8-mile hike. Lake George on the southern edge offers boat tours, parasailing, and some of the clearest water in the region.

The High Peaks region requires wilderness permits for overnight camping, and some areas have steward programs during peak season (typically June through September). Most day hiking doesn’t require permits, but parking fills up fast at popular trailheads like Adirondack Loj near Mount Marcy.

Winter transforms the Adirondacks into this incredible snowy playground. Whiteface Mountain offers skiing with some of the best vertical drops in the East, and Lake Placid becomes a hub for ice skating, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. I’ve gone winter camping here and it’s magical, but you definitely need proper gear and experience.

• Read next: Discover the Adirondacks: Iconic Things to Do
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4. Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls State Park is obviously the big kahuna of New York attractions, and yes, it’s touristy as hell, but it’s touristy for good reason. The sheer power of 3,160 tons of water going over the falls every second is absolutely mind-blowing, and I still get goosebumps every time I visit.

Maid of the Mist boat tours are the classic experience, running $30.25 for adults and $19.25 for kids (6-12). The boats operate from May 1st through late October, weather permitting. You’ll get soaked even with the provided rain poncho, so dress accordingly. Book online because busy days sell out, especially weekends and holidays.

Cave of the Winds gets you ridiculously close to the Bridal Veil Falls on wooden walkways and decks. Tickets are around $20 for adults, $15 for kids, and they provide sandals and ponchos. The Hurricane Deck puts you literally 20 feet from the falling water – it’s intense and totally worth getting drenched.

The Observation Tower gives you the best overall views and costs about $1.25 to ride the elevator. For free viewpoints, hit Prospect Point right at the edge of the American Falls, or cross to Goat Island for Horseshoe Falls views. The Three Sisters Islands offer more intimate perspectives without the crowds.

Park entrance is free, but parking ranges from $25-30 depending on the season and location. The New York State Park lots are cheaper than private lots, but they fill up fast. Terrapin Point on Goat Island is my favorite spot for photography, especially during golden hour when the mist creates rainbows.

• Read next: Unique Niagara Falls Experiences for Kids
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5. Robert H. Treman State Park

Robert H. Treman State Park is one of those hidden gems in the Finger Lakes that doesn’t get nearly the attention it deserves. Lucifer Falls plunges 115 feet and creates this perfect swimming hole at the base – it’s like nature’s own infinity pool.

The Gorge Trail is about 1.5 miles one-way and takes you past multiple waterfalls and through some seriously beautiful forest. The trail can be challenging with steep sections and rocky areas, so wear good hiking shoes. I love that it’s less crowded than Watkins Glen but just as spectacular.

The natural swimming area below Enfield Falls is incredible during summer months. The water’s cold – probably around 60-65 degrees even in July – but it’s so refreshing after the hike down. There’s a small beach area and rock ledges for jumping if you’re feeling brave.

Camping here is fantastic with 72 sites and modern facilities. The campground sits right along Enfield Creek, so you’ll fall asleep to the sound of running water. Sites with electric hookups are $31/night, tent sites are $24/night. The camp store stocks basics, but I’d recommend bringing most of your supplies.

The Old Mill near the lower entrance is worth checking out – it’s a restored 1839 grist mill that operates during summer weekends. Park entrance fees are $8 per vehicle in season, free off-season. The Rim Trail offers easier hiking with great gorge views if the main trail feels too challenging.

• Read next: Ultimate Finger Lakes Trip: Top Attractions

6. Jones Beach State Park

Jones Beach State Park is Long Island’s beach paradise with 6.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline and honestly some of the best sand beaches on the East Coast. This place gets absolutely packed in summer – we’re talking 8 million visitors annually – but the facilities and activities make it worth dealing with crowds.

Parking fees are $10 per vehicle when the beach is open (collected until 4pm weekdays, 6pm weekends), or $8 on weekends when it’s cooler. The Empire Pass for $80 covers you all season and pays for itself after about 8 visits. Fields 2 and 6 have oceanfront parking, while Fields 3, 4, and 5 connect via tunnels under Ocean Parkway.

The Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater hosts huge summer concerts with artists like Dave Matthews Band, Train, and tons of other big names. Concert parking is free for ticket holders, but traffic leaving can be brutal – expect delays of 30-60 minutes getting out of the main lots.

WildPlay Adventure Park is this incredible aerial obstacle course and zip line experience that opened recently. It’s $40-60 per person depending on which course you choose, and honestly it’s a blast. The courses are suspended above the dunes with ocean views.

Swimming pools at both the East and West bathhouses cost $5 for adults, $3 for kids. The West Bathhouse pool is open daily, while the East Bathhouse operates weekends only. Lifeguards are on duty at ocean beaches, and swimming is only allowed in designated areas when guards are present.

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7. Taughannock Falls State Park

Taughannock Falls is absolutely spectacular – at 215 feet, it’s taller than Niagara Falls and one of the highest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. The falls sit in this incredible amphitheater of layered rock that’s about 400 million years old.

The Gorge Trail is an easy 0.75-mile walk from the main parking area to the base of the falls. It’s mostly flat and suitable for families, though it can get muddy after rain. The Rim Trail offers a different perspective from above – it’s about 2 miles round-trip with some elevation gain, but the overlook views are incredible.

Park entrance fees are $8 per vehicle during peak season (April-November). The South Point area on Cayuga Lake has a swimming beach, boat launch, and picnic areas. Swimming is free once you’ve paid park admission, and the lake water is usually much warmer than those mountain swimming holes.

Camping at Taughannock includes 76 sites ranging from $24-31 per night depending on amenities. The campground sits above the gorge with some sites offering partial lake views. Book early because this place fills up, especially for fall foliage season when the gorge is absolutely stunning.

I love visiting in spring when snowmelt makes the waterfall really powerful – sometimes it’s thundering so loud you can’t have a conversation nearby. Fall is gorgeous but crowded, summer offers the best swimming weather, and winter creates these incredible ice formations, though the trails can be treacherous.

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8. Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park sits right on the Hudson River and offers this perfect combination of mountains, lakes, and river views that’s hard to beat. The Perkins Memorial Tower at the summit provides 360-degree views that on clear days reach all the way to Manhattan – about 42 miles south.

The drive up Perkins Memorial Drive to the tower is scenic but narrow and winding. Parking at the top is limited, so weekends can be frustrating. The tower itself is free to climb, and the views from the observation deck are honestly incredible. I’ve been up there in every season and it’s always impressive.

Bear Mountain Inn sits right at the base of the mountain and offers dining with Hudson River views. It’s not cheap – entrees run $25-35 – but the location and historic atmosphere make it special. The inn dates to 1915 and has this old-school lodge feeling.

Hiking options range from easy lake loops to challenging mountain climbs. The Appalachian Trail actually runs right through the park, so you can say you’ve hiked part of the famous trail. Hessian Lake offers a gentle 1-mile loop that’s perfect for families, while the climb to Bear Mountain summit is about 3 miles with significant elevation gain.

Parking fees are $8 per vehicle year-round. The Trailside Museums and Zoo features native New York wildlife and costs $3 for adults, $2 for kids. Ice skating at Hessian Lake is free when conditions permit, usually December through February. The park also offers swimming, boating, and fishing on the Hudson River.

9. Gantry Plaza State Park

Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City gives you hands-down the best views of the Manhattan skyline from anywhere in the five boroughs. This 12-acre waterfront park sits right on the East River and offers unobstructed views of Midtown Manhattan, the United Nations, and the Chrysler Building.

The park is completely free to visit with no parking fees, which is rare for anything with these kinds of views in New York City. Street parking is available, though competitive, and the park is easily accessible by subway – the 7 train stops at Vernon Boulevard-Jackson Avenue, just a few blocks away.

The repurposed shipping gantries give the park its name and create this cool industrial-meets-nature vibe. There are multiple piers extending into the river, fishing areas, and wide promenades perfect for walking or jogging. The Pepsi-Cola sign is an iconic photo backdrop, especially lit up at night.

I love coming here for sunset – the light hitting the Manhattan skyline is absolutely magical. The park stays open until 9pm in summer, and evening visits are incredibly romantic if you’re looking for date ideas. There are several food trucks and nearby restaurants in Long Island City if you want to make it a longer outing.

The NYC Ferry stops right at the park with service to Wall Street, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and other waterfront destinations. Ferry tickets are $4.50 each way, and honestly, arriving by water makes the whole experience even more special. This is probably the most underrated viewpoint in New York City.

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10. Catskill State Park

Catskill State Park covers over 700,000 acres of the Catskill Mountains and feels like a different world just two hours from Manhattan. This isn’t technically one park but a network of wilderness areas, peaks, and outdoor recreation spots that offer everything from gentle lake walks to serious mountain climbing.

Slide Mountain at 4,180 feet is the highest peak in the Catskills and offers incredible views after a challenging 5.4-mile round-trip hike. North-South Lake is much more family-friendly with easy trails, swimming areas, and some of the best camping in the region. The lake sits at 2,200 feet elevation, so it’s cooler than the valleys below.

Kaaterskill Falls is probably the most famous attraction – it’s a two-tier waterfall dropping 260 feet total. The hike to the base is about 1.4 miles round-trip and gets very crowded on weekends. I’d recommend going on weekdays or very early in the morning. The upper falls viewpoint requires more hiking but offers better photo opportunities.

Camping at North-South Lake Campground costs $30-35 per night and includes 219 sites with amenities like hot showers and a camp store. Devil’s Tombstone Campground is smaller and more primitive at $22-26 per night. Both fill up for summer weekends, so book well in advance.

Fishing in Catskill streams is fantastic, especially for wild trout. You’ll need a New York State fishing license ($25 for residents, $50 for non-residents), and many streams have special regulations. Willowemoc Creek and Beaverkill are legendary among fly fishermen, though they can get crowded during prime season.

11. Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Minnewaska State Park Preserve sits on top of the Shawangunk Mountain Ridge and offers some of the most dramatic cliffside scenery in New York. Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting are these pristine mountain lakes surrounded by white cliffs that look almost tropical on sunny days.

The carriage roads make for excellent hiking and biking with relatively gentle grades despite the mountainous terrain. Lake Minnewaska is about 1.5 miles from the main parking area via easy carriage road. The lake has a small swimming area with crystal-clear water that’s refreshingly cold even in summer.

Awosting Falls is a gorgeous 60-foot waterfall that’s about 2.5 miles from the visitor center. The trail follows old carriage roads through mountain laurel and offers several scenic overlooks along the way. The falls are most impressive in spring when snowmelt feeds the stream.

Rock climbing in the “Gunks” is world-class, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly to seriously challenging. Millbrook Mountain offers some of the most accessible climbing areas. If you’re new to climbing, several local guide services offer instruction and guided climbs starting around $200 per person.

Park entrance fees are $10 per vehicle year-round. Parking fills up fast on nice weekends, especially in fall when the foliage is peak. Swimming is allowed in designated areas of both lakes, but the water is cold – expect temperatures in the 60s even in July. The park has picnic areas, but no camping is allowed within the preserve.

12. Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls State Park sits just outside Ithaca and offers this perfect combination of accessible beauty and outdoor recreation. The namesake Buttermilk Falls tumbles down in a series of cascades and pools that create natural swimming holes and photo opportunities.

The Gorge Trail is about 0.75 miles to the upper falls and gains 500 feet of elevation through a series of stone steps and wooden walkways. It’s more challenging than it looks, especially when wet, but the payoff includes several waterfalls and great views back down the valley toward Cayuga Lake.

Buttermilk Creek has carved this beautiful gorge through layers of shale and limestone, creating the falls and pools that make this place special. The lower falls area has the most popular swimming hole – the water’s cold but refreshing on hot summer days. Natural rock slides provide fun for kids and adventurous adults.

The Rim Trail offers easier hiking with overlook views of the gorge and falls. It’s about 1.5 miles total and connects to the Finger Lakes Trail system for longer hiking options. I love this trail in fall when the leaves are changing – the gorge views are incredible.

Camping includes 40 sites ranging from $24-31 per night, plus cabin rentals for $65-85 per night. The campground sits in a wooded area away from the main gorge, which keeps it quieter than you’d expect given the park’s popularity. Ithaca is just a few miles away for restaurants, shopping, and Cornell University if you want to explore the area.

FAQs about the Best New York State Parks

Here are some popular questions I get asked often about NY’s state parks:

What is the most beautiful state park in New York?

It’s tough to choose, but for me, Watkins Glen State Park stands out. The gorge trail takes you past 19 waterfalls in less than two miles, and I’ve walked it in every season. It’s magical when the falls are roaring in spring and just as stunning when autumn colors reflect off the wet stone walls.

Which New York state parks are best for hiking?

If I’m looking for dramatic trails, I head to Letchworth State Park for canyon views, Minnewaska State Park for its cliffside paths and mountain lakes, and Harriman State Park for miles of quiet forest routes. All three offer trails for different skill levels, from casual strolls to challenging climbs.

Can you camp in New York’s state parks?

Yes, and I’ve camped in several. Allegany State Park has some of my favorite campsites, with a mix of cabins and tent spots. Wildwood State Park on Long Island is great for coastal camping, and Frontier Town in the Adirondacks offers easy access to hiking trails right from your campsite.

Are New York state parks open year-round?

Many are, but activities vary by season. I’ve visited Taughannock Falls State Park in winter when the waterfall freezes into a massive ice column, and I’ve swum at Green Lakes State Park in the summer. Always check the park’s official website for seasonal hours and trail conditions.

Do New York state parks have entrance fees?

Most charge a vehicle fee between $7–$10 during peak season. I personally buy the Empire Pass each year…it’s worth it if you plan to visit more than a few parks, since it covers unlimited entry for one vehicle all season.

What’s the best time of year to visit New York’s state parks?

It depends on what you’re after. For lush greenery and full waterfalls, I go in late spring. Summer is perfect for swimming and boating. Fall brings incredible foliage in parks like Minnewaska and Allegany, and winter turns places like Harriman into quiet snowshoeing and cross-country skiing havens.