19 Best National & State Parks in New York

Written by Shandley McMurray
Updated Mar 22, 2022

Welcome to New York. If you're looking for big cities with buzz, you'll find them here (yes, we're looking at you, New York City). But if you're hoping to find something a bit more soothing and serene, like stunning national and state parks bursting with craggy gorges, towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and thundering waterfalls, you'll be more than happy you came.

The Empire State is packed with serene landscapes so gorgeous, they'll make your camera quiver with excitement. Luckily, the need to preserve these areas of natural beauty was recognized early on. The government created excellent national and state parks to protect not only the environment, but also the historic structures peppered throughout the region.

From viewing Harriet Tubman's home to getting splashed by the phenomenal Niagara Falls to drinking from the healing waters of Saratoga Springs, there are so many amazing things to do in New York. Choose which adventure to try first with our list of the best national and state parks in New York.

Letchworth State Park

Talk about a gorgeous getaway. No matter how long you plan to visit, a trip to Letchworth State Park will soothe your soul. Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, this scenic wonder spot is filled with natural beauties and is one of the best places in New York for photography.

Home to awe-inspiring cliffs (some of which reach over 600 feet) and some of the best waterfalls in New York, this captivating site will be hard to tear your eyes away from. The three main falls, known as the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, crash through a massive forest- and cliff-lined gorge from the Genesee River.

You'll likely hear these falls before you see them, especially the most impressive, larger Middle Falls. Insider's tip: visit during the early spring to see the falls at their best. They should be rushing and thundering like mad due to the snowmelt.

There are plenty of places to get a close-up view, but the best overall falls vista can be seen from Inspiration Point.

Hike along part of the 66 miles of trails, take a cooling dip in the pool, head out white-water rafting, kayak, or hop in a hot air balloon.

Visiting during the winter? Don't worry, there's plenty to do during the colder months as well. From cross-country skiing to snowmobiling to skating to snow tubing, you'll never get bored.

Entry is $10 per car, and the park, which is over 14,000 acres, is massive (the falls are a 14-mile drive from the Mount Morris entrance). Plan to spend an entire day to reap all the benefits of this beauty. Also, bring a bag for your garbage, as there are no trash cans on site. They have a "carry-in, carry-out" policy.

Niagara Falls

In 2008, the area stretching from Wheatfield to the mouth of the Niagara River was designated the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area. Within these boundaries, you'll find the iconic falls, deemed one of the Seven Natural Wonders of North America, as well as the charming small towns of Youngstown and Lewiston.

Niagara Falls State Park boasts popular attractions like the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center, Aquarium of Niagara, and Cave of the Winds. The Hurricane Deck at the latter allows visitors to experience the power of the falls from close enough that they'll feel the vibrations through their core and get a little wet in the process. The landscape architect responsible for creating the 400 acres that make up this park is the same who designed New York City's Central Park.

Insider's tip: Hitch a ride on the Discover Niagara Shuttle. It transports visitors past 15 of the most popular historic destinations, from Niagara Falls to Old Fort Niagara. The best part? It's free.

Robert H. Treman State Park

Deep in the heart of the Finger Lakes region lies the outstanding Robert H. Treman State Park. Home to the scenic Enfield Glen, the park also boasts 12 impressive waterfalls within its more than 1,000 acres. No wonder it's so beloved by residents of nearby Ithaca.

The Lower Falls (a.k.a. Enfield Falls) is a hot spot for summer fun. It's easy to spend hours jumping off the diving board into the cool pool below the falls. Don't worry, there's a lifeguard on site during peak summer hours.

When you're not practicing your swan dive, tighten your laces and hike along one of the park's six trails. They wind through the craggy walls of the gorge, around other hypnotizing waterfalls, and into dense woods. The easy Lower Rim Trail offers an unbeatable view of Lower Falls from above.

Insider's tip: Don't miss the park's second most fabulous cascade: the 115-foot-tall Lucifer Falls. No wonder this has been dubbed one of the best attractions and things to do in the Finger Lakes Region, NY.

Hudson River Valley

Technically another National Heritage Area, not a state or national park, this breathtakingly gorgeous region stretches 150 miles along the famed Hudson River from Albany (in the north) to New York City.

In addition to unbeatable vistas (we're talking about the hike- and climb-worthy Catskills and Shawangunk mountains and sparkling lakes), the region is rich in history. It's the perfect place to enjoy a city break.

The 300-mile-long river served as an essential corridor, aiding colonies during the 17^th and 18^th centuries. It also played an important role during the American War of Independence.

Today, you'll find remnants of the area's historic significance in the form of preserved Victorian mansions once owned by New York's elite (we're talking Roosevelts, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers), and museums like the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

You'll also find delectable farm-to-table restaurants, farmers markets, and vibrant cultural scenes among the area's 10 counties, making this one of the best places to visit in New York.

America's first art school, the Hudson River School was formed here. With such stunning backdrops, it's easy to see where the talented painters got their inspiration.

Rockefeller State Park Preserve

Visitors to Westchester County's Rockefeller State Park Preserve are greeted by 40 miles of trails running through over 1,770 acres of idyllic countryside. Donated by the Rockefeller family in 1983, the trails consist of crushed stone that was laid out by John D. Rockefeller Sr. and Jr. during the early 1900s.

Whether you choose to walk, bike, jog, or ride a horse, you'll be graced with a sweet caress of lovely views at this lovely state park. Swan Lake and the Pocantico River sparkle in every season, and the adorable bridges present perfect photo opportunities. They can be found on the 13 Bridges Loop Trail.

Insider's tip: Pack your binoculars, as the preserve is home to more than 200 bird species.

Fittingly located in Pleasantville, a visit to this pretty pastoral park is well, pleasant. You'll be lulled by the calming sound of birdsong, refreshed by a dip in the lake (or river), and energized by a snowshoe through the forest during the winter months.

Catskill State Park

More commonly referred to as Catskill Park, Catskill State Park sprawls through areas of New York and Delaware. Contained within this spectacular state park in New York is the Catskill Forest Preserve. This state protected land currently comprises more than 300,000 acres of rugged beauty.

Whether you're a fan of wild forest land, flowering meadows, rippling lakes, bubbling springs, rushing waterfalls, majestic mountains, or sheer cliffs, you'll find it (and so much more) in this state park.

With so many natural wonders at your fingertips, the options for fun things to do in New York with your family are virtually endless, no matter what season you choose to visit.

That said, you can't go wrong with a trip to the Catskills in fall. The kaleidoscope of colors that burst onto the scene are awe-inspiring.

Gantry Plaza State Park

One of the smallest state and national parks on this list, Gantry Plaza State Park is located in Long Island City in the New York suburb, Queens. A more urban park than you may have expected, this fun venue offers incredible views of the mid-town New York City skyline. You won't even need to squint to see the Empire State Building or the United Nations.

You won't find massive waterfalls or a forested trail to hike here. Strolling along the East River, inhaling the sweet scent of the park's gardens, bopping along to outdoor concerts, and fishing off the pier, however, will help you forget that you're in a metropolis – at least for a little while.

Insider's tip: Look out for the two huge gantries (an apparatus that helped to load and unload cargo ships in the early 1900s) set at the water's edge. These inspired the name of the park and hold the famous Long Island sign.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Queens, NY

Minnewaska State Park Preserve

A spectacular highlight nestled in Ulster County, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is one of the best places to hike in New York. Winding trails lead visitors past tumbling waterfalls, clear lakes, verdant hardwood forests, and dramatic cliffs in this Hudson Valley gem. It's hard to believe so much beauty can lie in one attraction.

Expect to gain spectacular vistas from atop the craggy cliffs of this state park, set in the Shawangunk Mountain Range. If you're up for adventure (and have experience rock climbing), pack some climbing gear.

With over 50 miles of trails to choose from, you can walk, hike, bike, or run your way through a spectacular array of terrain.

Insider's tip: The Samuel Pryor Shawangunk Gateway Campground lies just five minutes outside the park's entrance for those who'd like to spend even more time exploring this utopia.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

If you're a fan of waterfalls (and who isn't, really?) head to Buttermilk Falls State Park. It's named after the impressive waterfall that flows from bubbling Buttermilk Creek through the deep valley within the park's borders. A true natural beauty, this park is home to a multitude of unmissable sites.

First off, there's Buttermilk Falls. One of the best waterfalls in New York, this 165-foot spectacle is so pretty, you won't be able to stop yourself from photographing it. Next up is Larch Meadows, your best bet for wildlife encounters. A wetland graced by a winding nature trail, this peaceful spot is incredibly soothing and one of the best places to visit in New York state.

The upper part of the park boasts a lake, trails that carve their way through forest, gorge, and rock rims, as well as picnic areas and playing fields. The lower section is where you'll find camping, as well as more playing fields and a natural pool. A 10-minute drive from Ithaca, this is a great day trip destination.

Bear Mountain State Park

If you're looking for an unbeatable, stunning vista, you'll find it at Bear Mountain State Park. Sitting in the rugged mountains high above the Hudson River, this breathtaking park is more than worthy of a visit, and more than worthy of its spot on our list of the best national and state parks in New York.

Bring the kids along to enjoy a picnic, bike ride, or hike through the Hudson Highlands. They'll love you forever for taking them to the park's Merry-Go-Round and Trailside Museums & Zoo. Then, escape the summer's heat with a jump in the park's swimming pool. During the winter, try cross-country skiing through the trails, or twirl around the skating rink.

The best thing to do in Bear Mountain State Park is drive to the top of Bear Mountain. It's here that you'll find the Perkins Memorial Tower and the most incredible panoramic view of the Hudson River, Hudson Highlands, and Harriman State Park.

Saratoga Spa State Park

There are so many reasons to love Saratoga Spa State Park. Among the most interesting is the fact that drinking the water here is thought to heal what ails you.

Believed by the Mohawk and Iroquois tribes to have healing powers, the water from the mineral springs was thought to cure everything from diabetes to heartburn. Despite there being no proof of this, many people rushed the area to bottle its water, sparking the state's creation of Saratoga Spa State Park in an effort to preserve the springs.

Today, the park attracts visitors hoping to do much more than sample its H2O. Miles of trails lead explorers on adventures through the verdant grounds, while two swimming pools entice smaller travelers to cannonball into the crisp water. Another bonus: two on-site golf courses.

On a more cultural note, the park boasts classical buildings and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, as well as the National Museum of Dance, Spa Little Theater, and of course, the Roosevelt Baths and Spa.

Allegany State Park

All the action at Allegany State Park revolves around the Red House Area. A picturesque Tudor-style building (a.k.a. the Administration Building) is home to a natural history museum, as well as a gift shop. Five miles of trails snake their way around the lake, offering bikers and hikers a respite from the sun's rays, and a more intimate view of the area's dense forest.

Thunder Rocks, a "city" made of bedrock, is especially impressive and not to be missed. Wandering through here is akin to walking into a fairy tale. Kids will love scrambling up the rocks and climbing to the top for a better view.

Visitors can camp, rent bikes and boats, play tennis, swim at the sandy beach, or fish. During the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are big hits.

Saratoga National Historical Park

Four main parts make up Saratoga National Historical Park. The largest is the Saratoga Battlefield, the site where American forces defeated the British in the Battle of Saratoga during the American Revolution.

The restored Schuyler House is a charming reminder of the area's storied past. It was once lived in by Revolutionary War hero Major General Philip Schuyler, and visitors can learn more about the important impact he had on the course of American history.

The Saratoga Monument is impossible to miss. Standing 155 feet in height, this imposing stone obelisk was built in 1883 to commemorate British General John Burgoyne's surrender to General Horatio Gates on October 17, 1777. For an unsurpassable view of the Hudson River Valley, climb the steps to the top.

Victory Woods is comprised of a self-guided trail through 22 acres. It's set in the final camp used by the British Army prior to General Burgoyne's surrender.

Insider's tip: Park at the Saratoga Monument for easy access to the trail.

Point au Roche State Park

Set on the northwestern shore of Lake Champlain, one of the best lakes in the US, this attractive, 856-acre state park is situated super close to the Canadian border. Located in Clinton County, Point au Roche State Park is a great family-friendly destination in New York state.

It features a soft, sandy beach where visitors spend their summer days lounging, playing volleyball, SUPing, or swimming in the sparkling lake. During the winter, ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing top the list of popular activities.

Speaking of the lake, many visitors prefer to spend their days fishing in or boating upon it. The park makes this easy with the 60 mooring sites located in Deep Bay.

Need a break from the water? With various trails to choose from, it's easy to hike or bike off through the forest to explore the area's wildlife in a variety of environments. Or head to the Nature Center to learn all there is to know about the region.

Chimney Bluffs State Park

It won't take long for you to deduce the reason behind Chimney Bluffs State Park's interesting moniker. Named for its unique and dramatic topography, this iconic spot is one you won't quickly forget. Giant, 150-foot glacier-formed spires jut towards the sky, backed by the azure waves of Lake Ontario's southern edge.

Located in Wolcott, a small town in the Finger Lakes, this intricately sculpted state park is almost otherworldly in its appearance. In addition to the prickly spires (also known as drumlins), visitors to Chimney Bluffs State Park can expect to find multiple nature trails,

Amenities include picnic areas and restrooms. The park is open from dawn to dusk, year-round, but you'll have to pay an entrance fee if visiting during the high season (between April 1^st and October 31^st).

Be careful if you're planning to bring little children or pets, as the cliff-top trail can be quite dangerous and close to the edge.

Harriet Tubman National Historical Park

Harriet Tubman National Historical Park is a fairly new national park located in Auburn. As such, sections of it may be under renovation, depending on when you visit.

This important landmark preserves and recounts the history of Harriet Tubman, an incredibly brave woman who freed herself from slavery and then became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, emancipating many other slaves throughout her life.

The park is home to three main buildings: the Tubman Home for the Aged (access is by tour only), which Tubman founded in 1896; Harriet Tubman's house (at the moment this can only be viewed from the outside); and the Thompson Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, which was built due to her fundraising abilities.

Belmont Lake State Park

Over 460 acres of non-stop fun greet visitors to Belmont State Park in West Babylon. One of the most popular state parks in New York for families, this vast park is a beloved place to spend a weekend outside.

Two large bodies of water bisect the park, adding even more opportunities for entertaining things to do. Carll's Creek runs 4.2 miles south and is lined by hiking trails.

The 29-acre Belmont Lake is perhaps the most popular of the two, as it boasts a fishery (you'll find warm-water species like bluegill, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, and brown bullhead). Row boats can be rented on weekends from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, or daily from June 20^th to September 3^rd.

Popular activities include horseback riding, kayaking, pedal boating, fishing, and canoeing. Trails offer over 7.5 miles of land to explore by foot, bike, or cross-country skis during winter.

Storm King State Park

The highlight of Storm King is unmissable; it also shares the park's unique name. Towering over 1,300 feet above the glistening Hudson River, in Cornwall, the majestic Storm King Mountain leaves visitors in awe.

The park itself comprises more than 1,900 acres of rugged beauty, beloved by hiking aficionados from across the region. The trek to the top of Storm King Mountain is a worthwhile undertaking, especially if you've packed a camera.

The views of the Hudson River and Hudson Highlands from the summit are unbeatable. This is a popular stop on one of the best drives to see fall foliage in New York for good reason. Be sure to wear proper shoes, and be prepared for a moderate hike.

In all, there are 10 miles of trails to enjoy, so pack a picnic, snacks, and anything else you'll need for an enjoyable day out. There are no facilities on-site.

If you're not a big hiker, try the Bobcat Trail. The only "easy" trail in this state park, it takes visitors on a 0.4-mile trek to see the view from atop the North Ridge of Crow's Nest – no climbing is necessary here.

Fire Island National Seashore

Fire Island National Seashore lies on the pristine barrier island of the same name, flanked by rolling sand dunes, pretty beaches, and verdant maritime forests peppered with white-tailed deer. It's easy to see why visiting Fire Island is one of the best things to do on Long Island.

Technically a national seashore, not a national park, this splendid area of natural beauty is one you'll be happy you took the time to visit. Spanning over 26 miles of this illustrious secluded isle, the national seashore is home to the Fire Island Lighthouse, William Floyd Estate, and Wilderness Visitor Center.

This park is best visited between May and October, when you can find easy access to the island aboard passenger ferries from Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue on Long Island.