Note that trails can be closed due to conditions. Always check the park website before heading out.
Stony Brook State Park is located at 10820 Route 36 South in Dansville, New York. Dansville is in Western New York state. It is just about an hour drive south of Rochester. The park features several waterfalls viewable from a gorge hike, plus a natural swimming area in the summer months.
New York State Parks have an entrance fee, as Stony Brook State Park is $9 per vehicle to enter the park (subject to change). Day visitors will want to use the North Entrance, which gives parking and access to the picnic area, natural swimming area (summer only), playground, and the main gorge trail with waterfalls.
Before heading into the gorge from the parking lot, there is a new restroom building. Down the hill from the restroom building is a seasonal stream-fed pool. Swimming is only open when lifeguards are on duty during the summer. It is also closes for poor weather conditions.
Walking along the path of the pool is the entrance to the Gorge Trail. This trail runs along Stony Brook Creek and includes views of the park’s three waterfalls.
The first of three large waterfalls along the gorge trail is Northern Falls. This impressive waterfall is one of the largest in the park. Note that swimming or wading in the stream bed is prohibited. Be sure to stay on the trail, which gives a great vantage point for viewing the falls.
The trail follows Stony Brook Creek, which includes a bridge above one of the smaller waterfalls. The trail is a bit less than a mile along this scenic gorge.
This park also includes opportunities for camping, as well as picnic shelters, a playground, and playing fields. Many picnic tables surround the playground, some with grills.
Looking for more amazing New York State Parks?
Check out Letchworth State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, and Thacher State Park. There are also many fun, kid-friendly attractions in New York.
