5 of the Best New York State Parks

The best New York state parks offer a surprising range of possibilities. Without ever leaving the state, you can find picturesque beaches, dense forests, raging rivers, historic landmarks, renowned golf courses and majestic waterfalls. New York is home to more than 200 state parks and historic sites, but for can’t-miss sights and must-do adventures, make these five destinations the first stops on your Empire State bucket list.

Raft the roaring gorge at Letchworth State Park

Witness the beauty of the Genesee River in action at Middle Falls in Letchworth State Park.

The park is nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” and it won’t disappoint. The Genesee River rushes through the gorge and there are more than 20 waterfalls along the 17-mile length of Letchworth State Park. Scenic views abound, and there are many ways to experience them, from horseback riding to cross-country skiing and much more. But don’t just take our word for it. Hear from an insider on why this is one of the best New York state parks.

“There’s a beautiful 7-mile trail along the gorge, and in the spring there’s great whitewater rafting,” says Wendy Gibson, Director of Marketing & Promotions at the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “But the coolest way to see Letchworth, by far, is by hot air balloon.”

From May to mid-October, Balloons Over Letchworth offers spectacular rides with breathtaking views, which Gibson calls simply “unbelievable.”

Let your troubles melt away at Saratoga Spa State Park

Be transported back in time through the classical architecture of the Saratoga Spa State Park.

At the turn of the 20th century, Saratoga’s mineral springs were world-famous for their reported healing powers. Spas and health centers were popping up left and right, and some began to worry that the region’s precious resource—the mineral water—was in jeopardy. A nearly 2,400-acre area was declared a state park in 1962 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987.

Today, Saratoga Spa State Park is the perfect place for adults looking to unwind and indulge in spa treatments, have a relaxing picnic on the grounds or play a round of golf. The best part of all? It’s not far from hotels in Saratoga Springs. “It’s five minutes from downtown Saratoga Springs,” says Gibson, “but it feels like another world. You can bike, walk, swim, you name it—we have tennis courts, an 18-hole championship golf course and an executive course.”

This destination, one of the best New York state parks, is home to festivals and concerts year-round, and its museums are a draw for visitors of all ages.

Take in the spectacle of Niagara Falls State Park

America’s oldest state park, Niagara Falls State Park is not only one of the best New York state parks, but it offers a lot more than just amazing views of the falls from above. Climb aboard the famous Maid of the Mist, the boat that takes you alongside the falls in all their thundering glory. But don’t let the adventure stop there.

“A lot of people look forward to riding the Maid of the Mist, but not everyone knows about the Cave of the Winds,” says Gibson. An elevator takes you 175 feet down into the gorge—the only access to the bottom on either the U.S. or Canadian side of the falls—where you’re treated to a stunning view. “You put on your poncho, walk out on the Hurricane Deck, and it’s really something to see the falls coming down over you. It’s the most dramatic view you can get.”

Once you’ve dried off, head over to Old Fort Niagara State Historic Site, the oldest structure on the Great Lakes. “Whether you’re familiar with the history or not, it’s a really fun way to learn about how the region came to be,” says Gibson.

Walk over the Hudson River at Hudson State Park

Experience the Hudson River Valley in a new way when you cross this former railroad bridge.

When you start thinking of the best New York state parks, you might not initially envision a massive walking bridge. But you can see the Hudson River like you’ve never seen it before—from a height of 212 feet—via Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. “The bridge between Highland and Poughkeepsie, which we call Walkway Over the Hudson, is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world,” says Gibson.

You’ll want to take your time as you make your way across the 1.28-mile-long bridge, because the views of the Hudson River Valley are bound to hold your attention. Gibson suggests you venture a few miles away to Hyde Park, where you can check out the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum and spend an afternoon at the stunning Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, a wonderful location administered by the National Park Service.

Explore the beach at Sunken Meadow State Park

See the tranquil shoreline of north Long Island at Sunken Meadow State Park.

If the beach is calling to you, one of the best New York state parks you need to visit is Sunken Meadow State Park on Long Island’s north shore. “It’s a beautiful beachfront on the sound, with views of Connecticut across the water,” Gibson says. “It’s popular with picnickers, swimmers, canoers and paddleboarders, but it’s not nearly as crowded as some of Long Island’s other beaches.”

When you’re ready to get out of the water, you can enjoy some window shopping along the boardwalk, tee off at the park’s 27-hole golf course or set off on a hike from the Long Island Greenbelt Trail’s northern terminus.

“It’s one of those parks that has a little bit of everything,” Gibson says. “It’s relaxing; it’s family-oriented, but there are plenty of activities to keep everybody entertained.”