Sprawling across more than 15,600 acres in the Hudson Highlands, Clarence Fahnestock State Park has been a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in New York’s Putnam County since 1929. The park’s rugged terrain of hardwood forests, glacial ponds, and rocky ridgelines offers a genuine taste of wilderness just 50 miles north of New York City.

Hikers will find over 25 miles of trails here, including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail that cuts through the park’s eastern edge. Canopus Lake serves as the park’s centerpiece — a scenic spot for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating during warmer months. Anglers can also try their luck at Stillwater Pond, stocked with trout each spring.

The park operates a campground with tent and trailer sites near Canopus Lake, typically open from late spring through mid-fall. Reservations fill quickly during peak summer weekends, so planning ahead is worthwhile. Winter visitors can explore cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails when conditions allow, and the Taconic Outdoor Education Center within the park hosts nature programs year-round.

Fall is arguably the best time to visit, when the surrounding hills erupt in brilliant orange and crimson and the summer crowds thin out. Spring wildflower season along the woodland trails is equally rewarding for those who prefer a quieter experience.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend camping trip, a challenging day hike, or a peaceful afternoon by the water, Fahnestock delivers without the overcrowding common at parks closer to the city.

Explore Nearby

• Bear Lake Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Utah
• Stony Point Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Bull’s Bridge — Covered Bridge in Connecticut
• Tarrytown Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Cliff Ridge Hang Gliding Area — Public Land