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Buttermilk Falls State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NY

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls State Park is a scenic park located in New York, famed for its cascading waterfalls and lush trails, making it a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.

State Park8114+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

811

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls State Park is a scenic park located in New York, famed for its cascading waterfalls and lush trails, making it a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Buttermilk Falls State Park spans across approximately 811 acres in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. The park is renowned for its namesake waterfall, where Buttermilk Creek descends in a foamy cascade, creating a beautiful and dramatic scene. This area features a blend of natural landscapes including woodlands, a small lake, and meandering streams that offer scenic beauty year-round. Visitors can explore a network of trails that lead through these diverse habitats, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and diverse plant life. The park's history is rooted in conservation efforts that have preserved its natural charm for public enjoyment. Popular recreational activities at the park include hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The main attraction, Buttermilk Falls, is complemented by smaller falls and pools that entice visitors with their tranquil appeal.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Buttermilk Falls State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Waterfall Wonder: Buttermilk Falls State Park, Ithaca, NY★ 8.2⌖ 0 miHiking
Buttermilk Falls State Park

Waterfall Wonder: Buttermilk Falls State Park, Ithaca, NY

Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca, NY offers a moderate hiking experience with scenic waterfalls, swimming pools, and picnic spots. Well-maintained trails and family amenities make it ideal for casual visitors and outdoor enthusiasts from late spring through early fall.

Swimming at Buttermilk Falls: A Finger Lakes Oasis★ 7.8⌖ 0 miSwimming
Upper Buttermilk Falls Park Road

Swimming at Buttermilk Falls: A Finger Lakes Oasis

Explore Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca, NY, known for its scenic waterfalls and swimming spots. The designated swimming area at the Lower Falls offers a refreshing escape amid lush surroundings. Best visited in summer when crowds are busiest.

Swimming Spots and Tips for Robert H. Treman State Park★ 7.5⌖ 2 miSwimming
Swimming Pool Robert H. Treman Park

Swimming Spots and Tips for Robert H. Treman State Park

Explore the scenic swimming spots and trails at Robert H. Treman State Park near Ithaca, NY. Enjoy the refreshing waters of the Lower Falls, perfect for a summer dip. Hike the challenging trails for spectacular views of Lucifer Falls. Drive-in access, family-friendly, especially busy in summer months.

Cascading Beauty: Robert H. Treman State Park★ 8.7⌖ 3 miHiking
Robert H. Treman State Park

Cascading Beauty: Robert H. Treman State Park

Explore Robert H. Treman State Park near Ithaca, NY, featuring dramatic waterfalls and rugged gorge. Perfect for hiking and camping, with highlights such as the 115-ft Lucifer Falls. Best enjoyed in spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Buttermilk Falls viewing area, offering stunning views of the cascading waterfall.✦ Enfield Falls, a unique ecosystem that supports diverse flora and fauna.✦ Lower Park swimming area, popular for its serene and scenic atmosphere.✦ Upper Park, with secret spots for those seeking quieter, hidden areas.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Buttermilk Falls State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Buttermilk Falls State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

A small vehicle use fee is required during peak season.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Buttermilk Falls State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Buttermilk Falls Campground

Located in the Upper Park area, it offers tent and RV sites with basic amenities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Buttermilk Falls State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ithaca
⌖ 2.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ithaca, New York

A vibrant college town known for its waterfalls, gorges, and lakes ideal for outdoor adventures and natural exploration.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Newfield
⌖ 4.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newfield, New York

A quiet rural town offering lush forested landscapes and access to Finger Lakes trails, ideal for nature lovers seeking peaceful outdoor experiences.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for snowshoeingExplore Town
Lansing
⌖ 8.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lansing, New York

A lakeside gateway with rugged trails and water adventures on Cayuga Lake, offering a blend of serene paddling and invigorating climbs.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Trumansburg
⌖ 11.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Trumansburg, New York

A peaceful Finger Lakes town offering serene landscapes and outdoor exploration opportunities among waterfalls and forests.

Dryden
⌖ 12.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dryden, New York

A quiet Finger Lakes town offering a mix of serene natural landscapes and accessible outdoor activities for all seasons.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Burdett
⌖ 16.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burdett, New York

A charming Finger Lakes village offering outdoor enthusiasts access to vibrant vineyards, rolling hills, and serene lakeside adventures.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Buttermilk Falls State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Fall Foliage Eco-CruiseIthaca, New York · 2.80 mi away
All Adventures· Discover Cayuga Lake

Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise

Discover the stunning fall colors from the water with the Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise on Cayuga Lake. This eco-friendly boat tour offers breathtaking views and in-depth local insights, perfect for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

2–3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.