This State Park Is One Of Western New York’s Most Beautiful Hidden Gems

New York has so many massive parks, forests and wilderness areas for locals and tourists to explore that it can be hard to track how many outdoor opportunities there are. But there are also some smaller parks and landmarks across the state that don't get quite as much attention as hotspots like Letchworth State Park and Adirondack Park. The 568-acre Stony Brook State Park in Steuben County is one of the best parks in New York you probably haven't visited. Here are just a few reasons why.

Stony Brook State Park in western New York might not be the first park on your radar in the Empire State, but it's got all the elements that make for a weekend adventure in upstate New York.

The park's gorge and series of waterfalls make it a truly picturesque environment for hiking and exploring. The three hiking trails and three major waterfalls make it a favorite among western New Yorkers.

The views from certain spots on the trails at this park are truly gorgeous.

In addition to a variety of hiking trails, there are also 88 campsites and eight rustic cabins around the park.

The park's Gorge Trail is a more moderate trail with beautiful views of the forest, while the Rim Trails feature incredible overlooks, waterfalls and more.

The vibrant colors of plant life and vast landscapes that hikers can see from various overlooks make this park a thrilling experience for even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

A playground, volleyball court, tennis courts and a baseball field are just a few of the other amenities that make it the perfect destination for people with all kinds of athletic interests.

Fortunately, the north entrance of the park is open year-round, so visitors can always enjoy this incredibly scenic spot in western New York.

Stony Brook State Park also has a prime location just south of the Finger Lakes, as well as Letchworth State Park. Or spend a day in Buffalo, which is only 90 minutes away.