Buttermilk Falls State Park

buttermilk state park, buttermilk falls state park camping, buttermilk falls state park campground

For New Yorkers seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure right in our own backyard, Buttermilk Falls State Park stands as a prime destination. Located in the vibrant Finger Lakes region, this state park is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a natural wonderland defined by its spectacular waterfalls, diverse hiking trails, and inviting natural swimming areas. For those of us looking to escape the daily grind and immerse ourselves in the beauty of Upstate New York, Buttermilk Falls State Park offers an accessible and deeply rewarding experience.

The park gets its name from the magnificent Buttermilk Creek, which tumbles down a steep valley side towards Cayuga Lake, creating a series of "foaming cascades." This breathtaking natural feature is at the heart of the park’s appeal, drawing visitors from across the state and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned hiker eager to explore the gorge and rim trails, a family looking for a refreshing dip in a natural pool, or simply someone yearning for the tranquility of tall trees and the sound of rushing water, Buttermilk Falls State Park has something unique to offer.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the park provides well-maintained camping facilities, making it an ideal choice for an extended stay. It’s a place where you can truly "unplug" and embrace the outdoor lifestyle, whether that means making an "epic dinner by the bonfire" or simply enjoying the serenity of your surroundings. With options ranging from "no-frills campsite" to rustic "cabins" for those desiring a bit more comfort, the park caters to various camping preferences. It's an excellent opportunity to explore the local charm of Ithaca and the wider Finger Lakes region while having a peaceful natural base to return to each day.

Established in 1924 as a gift to New York State, Buttermilk Falls State Park has grown to encompass 811 acres, a testament to its enduring appeal and natural significance. Its commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities within a stunning landscape makes it a consistently popular choice for New Yorkers looking to reconnect with nature, create family memories, and experience the unparalleled beauty of our state’s gorges and waterfalls.

Buttermilk Falls State Park is conveniently located in South Hill, NY 14850, a short and pleasant drive from downtown Ithaca, New York. This prime location places it squarely within the renowned Finger Lakes region, an area celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and world-class wineries. For New Yorkers, the park offers excellent accessibility, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without extensive travel.

The park's address in "South Hill" indicates its position just outside the main urban hub of Ithaca, offering a tranquil natural setting while still being close enough to enjoy the city's amenities. Access to the park is generally straightforward, with clear signage leading visitors from major routes to the park entrance. There are "multiple parking lots" capable of handling a significant number of cars, ensuring ample space for day-use visitors.

For those traveling from various parts of New York State, Buttermilk Falls State Park is readily reachable via the state's well-maintained highway system. It’s a manageable drive from larger cities like Syracuse, Binghamton, and even metropolitan New York City, with the journey itself often proving scenic as you venture into the heart of the Finger Lakes. The park is well-integrated into the local infrastructure, making it easy to combine your camping or park visit with explorations of nearby attractions in Ithaca, such as Cornell University, Ithaca College, and other Finger Lakes gorges like Robert H. Treman State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park.

Accessibility within the park is also a consideration. The main falls area is quite accessible, with views from the turnaround area and a short distance from the parking lot on a paved surface. While some of the more rugged gorge trails may not be fully accessible, the park strives to provide access to its key features, making it welcoming for a wide range of visitors. The ease of getting to and around Buttermilk Falls State Park enhances its appeal as a top choice for New Yorkers seeking natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

Buttermilk Falls State Park offers a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience for all its visitors, whether they're camping, exploring for the day, or just passing through.

• Camping Facilities: The park provides 46 campsites, including both tent and RV sites. Many sites come with electrical hookups, accommodating a variety of camping setups. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire pit, perfect for enjoying outdoor meals and bonfires.
• Cabin Rentals: For those seeking a more rustic yet comfortable experience, Buttermilk Falls State Park offers 7 cabins. These cabins are often one-room units and may include basic amenities such as a refrigerator and cots, with a picnic table and fire ring outside. Guests are advised to contact the park directly to confirm what is provided and what they should bring.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities with hot showers are available, ensuring comfort and hygiene for campers and day-use visitors.
• Swimming Area: A significant highlight is the "seasonal life-guarded swimming" at the natural pool located at the base of the main waterfall. This provides a refreshing and unique swimming experience during the warmer months (typically from late June through Labor Day weekend, dependent on water quality).
• Picnic Areas and Grills: Numerous picnic tables and grills are available throughout the park for day use, offered on a first-come, first-served basis, ideal for family outings and group gatherings.
• Camper Recreation Shelter and Pavilions: These facilities provide communal spaces, often used for group activities, shelter during inclement weather, or organized recreational programs, especially beneficial for campers.
• Recreation Programs: The park offers "summer guided walks" and a "recreation program," providing opportunities for visitors to learn more about the park's natural features and participate in organized activities.
• Pet-Friendly Policies: Pets are allowed in certain areas of the park, provided they are on a leash and owners have proof of inoculation. However, pets are generally not allowed in the swimming area or on the gorge trail for safety reasons.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available throughout the campground, an essential service for all campers.

Buttermilk Falls State Park is renowned for its captivating natural beauty and diverse recreational offerings, making it a highlight among New York's state parks.

• Spectacular Waterfalls: The park's namesake, Buttermilk Falls, is a magnificent series of "foaming cascades" as Buttermilk Creek descends over 500 feet. This dramatic display of nature is accessible for viewing from various points, including the park entrance and lower Gorge Trail.
• Natural Swimming Pool: A unique and highly popular feature is the "natural pool at the base of Buttermilk Falls" where seasonal, life-guarded swimming is permitted. This offers a truly memorable and refreshing way to experience the park.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The park boasts 5 trails that wind through a "remarkable variety of landscapes," including woodlands, along the gorge, and atop the rim. These trails provide stunning views of the falls, creek, and the surrounding Finger Lakes region, catering to various hiking abilities.
• Lake Treman and Larch Meadows Glen: The upper park area includes a small lake, Lake Treman, which features a scenic trail circling it. Additionally, the "lovely Larch Meadows glen and wetland area" offers diverse ecological exploration and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Diverse Flora and Fauna: As a heavily forested state park, it's home to a variety of wildlife, including common mammals like squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and foxes, as well as numerous bird species, including pileated woodpeckers, owls, and various migratory songbirds. Coyotes and occasional bear sightings have also been reported.
• Picnic Areas and Playing Fields: Ample picnic tables, grills, and playing fields are available, providing excellent spaces for day visitors and campers to enjoy outdoor meals and recreational activities.
• Proximity to Ithaca: Its close location to the city of Ithaca means visitors have easy access to Cornell University, Ithaca College, diverse dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, allowing for a balanced nature and city experience.
• Accessible Viewing Areas: The main falls are accessible for viewing from the parking area, making it possible for many visitors to appreciate the cascades without extensive hiking.
• Photographic Opportunities: The dramatic waterfalls, lush gorges, and scenic landscapes provide endless opportunities for photography, capturing the raw beauty of the Finger Lakes.

As a New York State Park, Buttermilk Falls State Park typically operates under a standard fee structure for camping, cabin rentals, and day-use entry, rather than offering frequent "promotions" in the commercial sense. However, there are considerations for New Yorkers looking for value or specific types of access:

Seasonal Rates: Camping and cabin rates often vary by season, with peak summer months (May to October for camping facilities) generally having higher demand and standard pricing. Off-season or shoulder-season visits might offer a quieter experience, though camping facilities may be limited or closed outside the main season.

Day Use Fees: There is generally a per-car entrance fee for all New York State Parks during certain hours (e.g., $9 from 8:30 am to 6 pm daily, April through October). New Yorkers who frequently visit state parks might consider purchasing an Empire Pass, which provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most New York State Parks and DEC facilities for a single annual fee. This is an excellent value for locals who plan multiple visits to state parks throughout the year.

Reservation System: All camping reservations for New York State Parks are handled through Reserve America. While not a "promotion," making reservations well in advance, especially for popular sites or cabins during peak season, is crucial. Checking for cancellations on sites like CampADK or using services like Campnab can also help secure desirable spots.

New York State Parks often have specific rules regarding firewood importation to prevent the spread of invasive insects, and visitors should be aware of quiet hours (typically 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.). For the most up-to-date information on fees, policies, and any potential, limited-time offers, it is always best to consult the official New York State Parks website or the Reserve America booking portal for Buttermilk Falls State Park.

For detailed information, reservations, or any specific inquiries regarding Buttermilk Falls State Park, you can use the following contact information:

Address: South Hill, NY 14850, USA (This is a general address; the park entrance is typically around 112 E. Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850 for GPS purposes).

Park Phone: (607) 273-5761 (This number is for general park inquiries, including the swimming schedule).

Camping Reservations: Reservations for campsites and cabins are primarily made through Reserve America. You can visit their website or call 1-800-456-2267 to book your stay.

It is highly recommended to check the official New York State Parks website or the park's page on Reserve America for the most current information regarding operating hours, fees, and specific amenities, especially as seasonal conditions can affect accessibility and services.

Buttermilk Falls State Park is an exceptional destination that truly caters to New Yorkers seeking a refreshing and accessible outdoor experience. Its prime location in Ithaca, within the breathtaking Finger Lakes region, means that a stunning natural escape is never too far away for residents across the state. This convenient proximity makes it ideal for everything from spontaneous day trips to extended family camping vacations, eliminating the need for arduous long-distance travel.

For locals, the park’s diverse offerings create a versatile appeal. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to tackle the challenging gorge and rim trails, a family with children looking for a safe and unique swimming experience at the base of a magnificent waterfall, or simply someone desiring a tranquil spot for a picnic amidst nature, Buttermilk Falls delivers. The availability of both tent and RV sites, along with rustic cabin rentals, provides flexible accommodation options to suit various comfort levels and budgets, making camping accessible to a wider audience of New Yorkers.

Beyond the physical amenities, the sheer natural beauty of the park—with its "foaming cascades," "tall trees," and "unplug" atmosphere—offers an unparalleled opportunity for mental and physical rejuvenation. It’s a chance to reconnect with the natural world, engage in active recreation, and create lasting memories with loved ones. The state park setting also ensures a well-maintained and regulated environment, providing peace of mind for visitors regarding safety and ecological preservation.

In essence, Buttermilk Falls State Park is more than just a campground; it’s a cherished natural treasure that belongs to all New Yorkers. Its combination of accessibility, diverse recreational activities, stunning natural features, and well-managed facilities makes it an ideal and highly recommended choice for any local looking to embrace the great outdoors and experience the unparalleled beauty of our state’s Finger Lakes region. It’s truly a spot where you can leave the everyday behind and immerse yourself in the wonders of New York's natural heritage.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

South Hill, NY 14850, USA