Stony Brook State Park Campground

For us New Yorkers who love to explore the natural wonders of our state, Stony Brook State Park Campground in Dansville, NY, is a true regional treasure. Nestled in the picturesque Finger Lakes region, this New York State Park offers a unique camping experience that blends rugged natural beauty with convenient amenities. It’s a place where you can wake up to the sounds of a babbling brook, spend your days hiking past stunning waterfalls, and cool off in a natural stream-fed pool. As one happy camper noted, it’s a "cute little spot to camp" with "waterfalls right on site to hike that was a little less than a mile hike that was super pretty and fun!" While some reviews touch on the challenges that can arise in any popular park, such as occasional noise or unpaved sites, the core appeal of Stony Brook – its beautiful setting, direct access to incredible natural features, and generally well-maintained facilities – consistently shines through. It's an ideal destination for families, hikers, and anyone looking for an immersive outdoor experience right here in New York.

Stony Brook State Park Campground is located in Dansville, NY 14437, USA. This places it strategically in Steuben County, approximately two miles south of the village of Dansville. For New York locals, its accessibility is quite favorable, especially for those coming from the Rochester or Syracuse areas via I-390 South (take Exit 4, then Route 36 South). Its location in the Finger Lakes region means it’s also within easy driving distance of other popular attractions, including the renowned Letchworth State Park (often called the "Grand Canyon of the East"), Keuka Lake State Park, and Watkins Glen State Park. This makes Stony Brook a fantastic base camp for exploring the wider Finger Lakes area. The campground itself is situated in the upper, or south, end of the park, scattered through the woodlands above the gorge. This positioning ensures a sense of being immersed in nature while still having convenient access to the park's main features and the nearby town of Dansville for any supplies you might need.

Stony Brook State Park Campground provides a range of essential services designed to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable within a natural setting. As a New York State Park, it focuses on core amenities for a classic camping experience.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: The campground offers 88 campsites suitable for both tents and trailers. While specific site sizes can vary, many are noted as being "nice sized" and offering "a good amount of privacy."
• Rustic Cabins: For those seeking a slightly more sheltered experience without electricity or water, 8 rustic cabins are available, providing protection from the elements. These 4-person cabins offer a blend of tent and cabin camping.
• Restrooms with Hot Showers: Crucial for comfort, the park provides public restrooms in each loop, complete with hot showers, a highly appreciated amenity by campers.
• Flush Toilets: Modern flush toilets are available in the restroom facilities.
• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is on-site for waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for cooking, gathering, and enjoying campfires.
• Water Fill-up Station: A water fill-up station is available for potable water, though individual campsites do not have water hookups.
• Group Camping Areas: The park also offers areas for group camping, ideal for larger gatherings or organizations.
• Pet-Friendly: Stony Brook State Park Campground is pet-friendly, allowing up to two leashed pets per site. Current proof of rabies inoculation is required at check-in, and pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under control at all times. They are not to be left unattended.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically sold by a nearby private vendor, ensuring you have fuel for your campfires.
• Rentable Picnic Shelters: Two picnic shelters, Clara Barton and Shawmut, are available for rent, perfect for hosting larger gatherings like family reunions or parties.

It is important to note that while the campground is well-equipped, individual campsites do NOT offer electric or water hookups.

The features and highlights of Stony Brook State Park Campground are truly what draw New Yorkers to this picturesque destination, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

• Stunning Waterfalls & Gorge: The park's most iconic feature is its rugged gorge carved by Stony Brook, boasting three spectacular waterfalls. The Gorge Trail, a beautiful and fun hike, takes you right past these cascading falls and fascinating rock formations.
• Natural Stream-Fed Swimming Pool: A unique highlight, especially during summer, is the park's stream-fed, guarded swimming pool. It offers a refreshing and natural alternative to a traditional pool, set amidst the park's lush greenery.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Beyond the famous Gorge Trail, the park offers Rim Trails that climb the towering cliffs, providing different perspectives of the waterfalls and the wooded landscape. There are also nature trails for more leisurely strolls. Note that gorge trails may close due to safety conditions, particularly outside of warmer months.
• Variety of Recreation Fields: For active campers, the park provides multiple play fields, including playgrounds for children, tennis courts, baseball fields, and volleyball courts, ensuring plenty of space for outdoor games.
• Picturesque Woodlands: Campsites are nestled within hilly woodlands, offering natural shade, a sense of privacy, and an authentic upstate New York forest experience.
• Proximity to Finger Lakes Attractions: Its location makes it an excellent base for day trips to other regional gems like Letchworth State Park, Keuka Lake, and Watkins Glen State Park, all known for their gorges, waterfalls, and scenic beauty.
• Winter Activities: In the colder months, the park offers three miles of cross-country ski trails, providing year-round recreational opportunities.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests and aquatic environments, support a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and spotting other animals.

As a New York State Park campground, Stony Brook State Park operates under the state's standard reservation and fee structure rather than offering commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Reservations are managed through the official ReserveAmerica website.

While there aren't traditional discounts or coupon codes, the value proposition lies in the affordable access to well-maintained facilities within a stunning natural setting. New York State Parks may occasionally run statewide promotions, such as "Buy Two Get One Free" deals for specific dates at various parks, as seen in past initiatives. It's always advisable for local New Yorkers to check the New York State Parks website or the ReserveAmerica platform directly for any current, limited-time offers that might apply to camping stays. Generally, campsite fees are set at a daily rate, with slight variations for different site types or for out-of-state residents. Reservations can typically be made up to nine months in advance, and booking early is highly recommended, especially for popular weekends during the summer and fall. Remember, the "promotion" is the consistent quality and natural beauty offered at a state-managed price point.

To connect with Stony Brook State Park Campground for inquiries or to make reservations, you can use the following information:

• Address: Dansville, NY 14437, USA (This address points to the park's general location. The campground is within the park's south entrance area.)
• Phone: (585) 335-5530
• Mobile Phone: +1 585-335-5530

This phone number will connect you directly to the park office during operational hours. For specific campsite reservations, the most efficient method is through the New York State Parks' booking system on ReserveAmerica. It’s highly recommended to use the ReserveAmerica website to check availability and secure your dates, as this is the primary portal for all New York State Park campgrounds. Given the park's popularity, especially during peak seasons, booking well in advance is essential to ensure you get your desired spot.

For us New Yorkers, Stony Brook State Park Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for a truly memorable outdoor escape. Its prime location in the Finger Lakes region means it's easily accessible for many, offering a convenient drive to a world of natural beauty. The park’s highlight, the dramatic gorge with its three magnificent waterfalls and the unique natural swimming pool, provides endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation right on-site. It’s a perfect setting for families to explore nature, with hiking trails that cater to various skill levels and open spaces for kids to play. While some past visitors have noted challenges like road conditions or occasional noise from fellow campers, these are common considerations in popular, large state parks. Crucially, the park's commitment to maintaining its facilities, including clean restrooms with hot showers, ensures a comfortable stay. Stony Brook offers a genuine blend of adventure and comfort, allowing local New Yorkers to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and invigorating activities that define our incredible state parks.

Stony Brook State Park Campground

Dansville, NY 14437, USA