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Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls state park
Buttermilk Falls in Ithaca
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Buttermilk Falls in Fall Ithaca
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Buttermilk Falls State Park
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Finger Lakes Region
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Buttermilk Creek descends more than 500 feet in a series of cascades and rapids. A natural pool at the base of Buttermilk Falls provides swimming with the feel of an old swimming hole. Upstream, a scenic trail circles Lake Treman. The park features 5 trails that wander through a remarkable variety of landscapes.

Can You Swim at Buttermilk Falls?

Absolutely! There is a natural pool at the base of Buttermilk Falls that provides lifeguarded swimming for park visitors. We encourage you to visit the NY State Parks website for the most up to date notices of any park closures and to confirm if swimming is currently open. Due to the popularity of this park and capacity limitations in response to COVID-19, NY State Parks reserves the right to close entrances to manage crowd size for the safety & enjoyment of all

Is there camping at Buttermilk Falls?

You bet! Campers are encouraged to tent camp, RV camp, or rent the cabins on the property.

Does Buttermilk Falls Allow Dogs?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Buttermilk Falls. However, they must be kept on a leash no more than 6 feet long and must stay in designated pet-friendly areas. There are signs around the park that indicate these restrictions. Proof of rabies vaccination may be requested by park staff.

Fun Facts: Visible from the state park entrance, cascading Buttermilk Falls is the largest of 10 falls along Buttermilk Creek as it plunges 600 feet to the valley. For real beauty hike the stairs into the heart of the gorge.

Trail Info: View falls from the park entrance area or lower Gorge Trail. Easy/Moderate.

Additional views:
Gorge Trail: 0.75mi. Strenuous
Rim Trail: 0.75mi Strenuous
Bear Trail: 0.5 mi. Moderate
Lake Treman: 1.5mi. Easy

Falls view open year round. Trails open April-Oct.

Amenities

Amenities

General
  • Wheelchair Accessible:

Places To Stay

Camping
  • # Sites Total: 46
  • Cabin/Cottage/Trailer Rental:
  • Camping:
  • Dump Station:
  • Hot Showers:
General
  • Pet Friendly:

Things To Do

General
  • Fishing:
  • Natural Wonders:
  • State & National Parks:
Nature
  • Beaches:
  • State Parks:
  • Waterfalls & Gorges:
  • Wildlife/Birding:
Outdoor Adventures
  • Hiking:
Winter Activities
  • Skiing (XC):
  • Winter Ski:
Accessibility

Accessible Amenities

General
  • Accessible Amenities:
  • Accessible Car Parking Onsite: Yes
  • Accessible Van Parking Onsite: Yes
Mobility/Wheelchair Access
  • Mobility/Wheelchair Access Accommodations:
  • Accessible Bathroom: Yes
  • Accessible Entrance: Yes
  • Accessible Route: Yes
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