If you’re looking forward to being spellbound by the magnificence of the Finger Lakes State Parks, then Watkins Glen State Park is the place to go.
The park is the most famous among the Finger Lakes State Parks. If you travel two miles, you will find that the glen’s stream goes down 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs. Adding to its awe-inspiring magnificence are the 19 waterfalls along the course.
Spending a night outdoors is no problem in the park. You can choose from any of the 305 campsites which are equipped with restrooms, hot showers and dumping stations. You can also purchase firewood onsite.
At Watkins Glen, you will never run out of things to do. Day visitors and campers alike can take their pick from the various activities that are being offered. Water babies can frolic in the Olympic-sized and kiddy pools or choose from any of the 19 waterfalls on the Gorge Trail.
If you want to take it easy and just enjoy the view, you can go biking or hiking through the many trails in the park. Thrill seekers can also try X-Country Skiing. During the summer, you can take one of the tours through the gorge, the campsite for trailers and tents. You can also use the picnic facilities, or go fishing in the neighboring Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek. Rainbow trout are known to have their spring run in these areas.
Within 10 miles from the park, there are also other activities in store for you like antiquing, biking, boating, canoeing, paddle boating, paddle boating and swimming on the beach.
If you’re planning to go on a camping trip, you can make reservations way ahead of time. The park accepts reservations at least nine months in advance for stays at least 2 nights or longer.
Park regulations require all dogs to be put on a leash, and are not allowed on Gorge Trail. Pet owners must also present current rabies certificates of their pets.
You can find Watkins Glen State Park in the village of Watkins Glen, in Schuyler County at the South end of Seneca Lake. Its GPS information is (Latitude, Longitude): 42.36861, -76.90111.