"Our nation's parks-whether formed on the state or national level-are a source of joy, calm and connectedness to nature. While national parks tend to get all of the attention, state parks are absolutely worth a visit too. In New York, there are some gorgeous parks to choose from, especially now that fall foliage is hitting its late stages and the air is crisping up."
"In second place is Whetstone Gulf State Park in Lowville, in the Thousand Islands region. It's built along a three-mile-long gorge and has impressive vistas, 56 beautifully wooded campsites, a swimming hole and, best of all, a hiking (and in winter, cross-country ski) trail that circles the gorge. A reservoir is stocked with fish for fishers, and non-fishers can canoe or kayak across it."
New York has 180 state parks and five underrated parks are recommended for late-fall visits. State parks provide joy, calm and connectedness to nature alongside national parks. Niagara Falls State Park offers iconic waterfall views; a 1905 tunnel reopened in 2022 provides a ground-level platform, and a Crow's Nest stairway will add mid-gorge viewpoints when it opens in 2026. Whetstone Gulf has a three-mile gorge, impressive vistas, 56 wooded campsites, a swimming hole, and a trail that circles the gorge; a reservoir is stocked for fishing and allows canoeing and kayaking. Sunken Meadow on Long Island offers Sound views, three bridges across the creek, and grassy lawns for Frisbee and croquet.
Read at Time Out New York
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