The 13 Secret Parks Of New York You’ve Never Heard Of But Need To Visit

In New York we’re lucky enough to have hundreds of state parks and even one of the largest parks in the country, the Adirondack Park. But with popular destinations like these that have rightfully earned quite the reputation, you may find yourself seeking out other lesser-known outdoor areas that offer an equal amount of adventure and beauty. Ready to guide you in the right direction, it’s time you discover this list of parks that you’ve most likely never visited before.

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Covering over 400 acres of remote space out in the Finger Lakes, the Ontario County Park at Garnett Hill is especially gorgeous to experience during the fall. The park has a lookout point that's perfect for viewing our foliage as well as peaceful nature trails to hike along and picnic areas.

How to get here: 6475 Gannett Hill Park Drive Naples, NY 14512

Malone Rec Park/Facebook

A great family friendly spot that's been around for generations, Malone Recreational Park is packed with lots of small town charm. Part of Franklin County, the northern gem is a great place to visit and has picnic tables, playgrounds, paddle boats, a walking path and lots more.

How to get here: Duane Street Malone, NY 12953

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Out in this area of Central New York, specifically Onondaga County, you'll find that there are quite a few waterfalls that are worth visiting. One that is often overlooked? Pratt's Falls Park! The park's main attraction is it's 137-foot tall waterfall that leaves every visitor speechless. A scenic spot that's a great destination for a picnic, you'll wish you had known about this place sooner.

How to get here: 7671 Pratts Falls Road Manlius, NY 13104

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Just south of Keuka Lake within the gorgeous Birdseye Hollow State Forest is a stunning park that you'll want to keep all to yourself. With some many different and gorgeous forests covering New York, it's not hard to have lesser-known gems like this slip through the cracks. The scenic park is open all year long and has amazing hiking trails, picnic areas and even a large pond.

How to get here: 7603 Birdseye Hollow Road Bradford, NY 14815

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One of the most magical camping opportunities that's hiding here in New York, way up in our Northern Country is a park and campground that seems too beautiful to be real. Those who make a point to visit the park will be able to view a roughly 120-foot tall waterfall and other fantastic corners of the forest where you can get away from it all.

How to get here: 34 Cemetery Road Chateaugay NY 12920

Sonja McAllister/Flickr

Look a half-hour outside of Buffalo's big city lights and you'll quickly discover breathtaking scenery like all that is Emery Park. One of our favorite outdoor destinations to visit, the park covers nearly 500-acres and has been a favorite local getaway for years.

How to get here: 2084 Emery Road South Wales, NY 14139

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If you take the time to look around, you'll actually notice that there are quite a few hidden parks that are home to whimsical labyrinths. Besides the lovely labyrinth you'll also find gardens, trails and even historic sites.The Hudson Crossing Park in Schuylerville sits right in the middle of the Hudson River and is open all year round.

How to get here: County Road 42 Schuylerville, NY 12871

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Another reason why you should make a trip down to Saugerties, Seamon Park in town is absolutely stunning. The park itself dates back to the very early 1900s and has a vibrant, eye-catching landscape that you'll love. Like a little piece of Alice In Wonderland in our own backyard, this outdoor site is worth checking out if you're in the area.

How to get here: 5 Malden Avenue Saugerties, NY 12477

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With popular attractions like Buffalo's Canalside, it can be easy for out of town visitors to realize that hidden gems like Niawanda Park are right under their noses. Sitting right along the Niagara River, the park covers over two miles. Giving you a wonderful look at the water, those who come here can enjoy biking and walking trails, picnic areas and an underrated waterfront park that's open all year long.

How to get here: 200 Niagara Street Tonawanda, NY 14150

Springville Whitewater Park/Facebook

Another waterfront beauty, Scoby Dam Park is waiting to be discovered along the Cattaraugus River. This park is a place you'll want to visit if you're looking to avoid crowds and just want to have a nice peaceful walk through the woods. Scoby Dam Park is also equipped with plenty of picnic benches and areas where you can enjoy views of the dam.

How to get here: 11024 Scoby Road Springville, NY 14141

Benjamin Esham/Flickr

Right out near Almond Lake in Steuben County, Kanakadea Park may have a mouthful of a name but it's more than worth visiting! Tucked between several of our state forests, this park will take you away from it all and even offers camping! Equipped with plenty of camping sites and relaxing views, this park make's for a great weekend getaway.

How to get here: County Road 66 Hornell, NY 14843

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Considering Rochester is one of our largest cities, some people may be surprised to find out that there are so many breathtaking parks hiding all around the city. Turning Point Park sits on the Genesee River and has boardwalks and trails that will take you right out onto the water. Covering nearly 300 acres of the city, spend the day exploring the forest and you won't regret it!

How to get here: 260 Boxart Street Rochester, NY 14612

Kirkside Park/Facebook

If you really want to visit a park that will take you away from it all, heading to the town of Roxbury isn't a bad place to start. An area of the Catskills that's so remote you'll often find yourself without cellphone reception, Kirkside Park only covers 14 acres of land but has so much to offer. From beautiful wooden bridges that go over the East Branch of the Delaware River to other forms of rustic charm, you'll be surprised to find this spot hidden away here.

How to get here: Kirkside Driveway Roxbury, NY 12474

How many of these parks have you already visited? To check out another underrated spot, explore This Hike In New York That Will Take You To Not One But TWO Beautiful Waterfalls!