Stony Brook State Park sits in the rolling hills of New York’s Finger Lakes region, where a winding gorge cuts through 568 acres of rugged, wooded terrain. Established in 1928, the park centers on Stony Brook creek and the dramatic ravine it has carved over millennia — a narrow corridor of layered shale walls, cascading waterfalls, and natural swimming holes that make it one of the Finger Lakes’ best-kept secrets.

The gorge trail is the main draw. A series of stone staircases and pathways wind alongside the creek, passing three major waterfalls as the trail climbs through the ravine. The geology is striking — exposed rock layers tell millions of years of history, and in summer the creek pools into natural swimming spots where visitors cool off beneath the falls. Beyond the gorge, wooded hiking trails loop through the surrounding hills, offering quieter walks through hardwood forest.

The park includes picnic areas, playgrounds, and a seasonal pool for families who want a full day out. Fishing in the creek draws regulars who know the spots.

Summer is prime season — the swimming holes and waterfalls are at their best from June through August, and the gorge stays noticeably cooler than the surrounding countryside. Fall brings spectacular foliage along the rim trails, with far fewer crowds. Spring visits reward with strong water flow over the falls, though trails can be muddy.

Stony Brook delivers genuine Finger Lakes character without the winery crowds — a gorge park that earns repeat visits.

Explore Nearby

• Finger Lakes National Forest — National Forest in New York
• Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse — Lighthouse in New York
• Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse — Lighthouse in New York
• Cherry Springs State Park — Dark Sky Site in Pennsylvania
• McAuley Road Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in North Carolina