The Best of New York's State Parks

If you are looking for an excellent way to spend an afternoon or even a couple of days in the outdoors, then you should definitely consider one of the many state parks located in New York. Whether you want to stroll along the shores of Lake Ontario or experience what life was like along the great Erie Canal, you will find a New York state park that is sure to meet your desires.

Old Erie Canal State Historic Park

Although everyone knows that the Erie Canal was one of the most important engineering feats ever accomplished in the United States, fewer people know that many of the parts of the canal that were abandoned have since been turned into parks that are often a great way to spend an afternoon. Of particular note is the Old Erie Canal Village, located near the city of Rome, New York, which recreates what life would have been like along the Erie Canal. This is a great way to step back in time and gain a glimpse into the enormous impact this Canal had on the state of New York.

Niagara Falls State Park

Probably one of the most famous of state parks is the Niagara Falls State Park, which is a great place to visit if you want to drink in the gorgeous site of some of the most famous waterfalls in the world. There is truly nothing more spectacular than seeing the churning falls and hearing the roar of the water as it plunges over the cliffs. If you are looking for a state park that will afford you the opportunity to see one of the most glorious natural wonders to be found in the state of New York, then look no further than Niagara Falls.

Chimney Bluffs State Park

If you are looking for a state park that is less commercialized and offers some opportunities for climbing and taking advantage of the natural beauty of Lake Ontario, then you should definitely visit Chimney Bluffs State Park. This park not only offers you great views of the lake (which can be either incredibly blue and calm or full of waves and white breakers depending on the weather), but also allows you to climb on the bluffs themselves, which are truly wonders of nature. Whether you want to simply stroll along the beach and drink in the beauty of nature of if you want to get in some exercise by climbing, this New York State Park has something to offer practically everyone.