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New York
209

New York State Parks

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USA Parks
New York
Finger Lakes Region
Buttermilk Falls State Park
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Buttermilk Falls State Park © Vera Sytch
Along the Gorge Trail
Buttermilk Falls State Park © Vera Sytch
Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls State Park © Vera Sytch
Gorge Trail
Buttermilk Falls State Park Looking down the gorge © Vera Sytch
Looking down the gorge
Buttermilk Falls State Park © Vera Sytch
Upper Gorge Trail
Buttermilk Falls State Park © Christine Scheuermann
Buttermilk Falls State Park Around the Bend © Jennifer Barber
Buttermilk Falls State Park © Christine Scheuermann
Buttermilk Falls State Park © David Meintel
Buttermilk Falls State Park Reflections of Nature © Jennifer Barber
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BUTTERMILK FALLS STATE PARK
BUTTERMILK FALLS STATE PARK
105 Enfield Falls Rd.
Ithaca, New York   14850

Phone: 607-273-3440
Reservations: 607-273-5761
Buttermilk Falls State Park takes its name from the foaming cascade formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake. The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas and playing fields. The lower park has a campground, pool and playing fields, beyond which is Larch Meadows. Larch Meadows is a moist, shady glen and wetland area through which a nature trail winds. Park activities including tours through Buttermilk gorge are offered weekly from July 4th through Labor Day.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Swimming
1. Buttermilk Falls State Park offers a natural pool at the base of Buttermilk Falls for swimming.
2. The park's main attraction, Lower Park, has lifeguard-supervised swimming during summer months.
3. Swimming is allowed when lifeguards are on duty from 11 am to 7 pm daily in peak season.
4. Upper and lower sections have picnic areas with grills near the water where you can relax post-swim.
5. There aren't any indoor or heated pools; all swim options are outdoors within nature's beauty.

6. The Gorge Trail provides scenic views but doesn't offer direct access points for swimmers due to safety reasons.

7. Swimming outside designated area or without supervision isn't recommended because currents could be dangerous around falls and gorges.

8. Park visitors should note that pets aren't permitted in bathing areas ensuring cleanliness and hygiene standards remain high.


Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the park's lower and upper reservoirs. Species include brown trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bullhead catfish.

In Buttermilk Creek itself you can find brook trout during springtime.

Fishing is permitted year-round with a valid New York State license.

Remember to follow all state regulations for catch limits and size restrictions.



Picnicking
Buttermilk Falls State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, some near waterfalls. No reservations are required.
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding opportunities, with species like warblers and woodpeckers commonly spotted. Birdwatchers can explore several trails that traverse diverse habitats attracting different birds. The Gorge Trail is particularly popular for its scenic views and abundant avian life. During migration seasons, the park becomes a hotspot for spotting various migratory birds.

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Area Campgrounds
Pine Creek Campground
28 Rockwell Road
Newfield, NY
607-273-1974
Spruce Row Campground and RV Park
2271 Kraft Road
Ithaca, NY
607-387-9225
Cool-Lea Camp
2540 State Route 228
Odessa, NY
607-594-3500
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Hook Line & Sinker Bait Shop
900 W State St
Ithaca, NY
(607) 697-0004
Newfield Rod & Gun Club Inc
156 Stark Rd
Newfield, NY
(607) 564-7595
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

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New York
209

New York State Parks

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