Letchworth State Park, renowned as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is one of the most scenically magnificent areas in the eastern U.S. The Genesee River roars through the gorge over three major waterfalls between cliffs–as high as 600 feet in some places–surrounded by lush forests. Hikers can choose among 66 miles of hiking trails. Trails are also available for horseback riding, biking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Letchworth offers nature, history and performing arts programs, guided walks, tours, a summer lecture series, whitewater rafting, kayaking, a pool for swimming and hot air ballooning. Experiencing Letchworth by hot air balloon is unforgettable, as seen in this video clip.
Winter activities include snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The historic, completely restored Glen Iris Inn offers overnight accommodations and is open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Banquet and catering services are available for your special events.
This park is home to the Grey Petaltail Dragonfly, a species that flew with the dinosaurs!
For professional and organizational retreats, educational and training needs can be met at the Conference Center. Located in a secluded area at the southwest portion of Letchworth State Park, the facility consists of a spacious country lodge room, bedrooms, bathrooms with showers and a kitchen. This unique historic structure is designed to accommodate the needs of low impact professional and organizational groups for education, training and retreat purposes. It can be rented for day and/or overnight use. It is the perfect place for your next business retreat. This facility is not designed for overnight family camping, although, some family type rentals may be permitted. Call the Park Office to be sure if this or another site will best suit your needs. For a family type vacation rental experience the Maplewood Lodge can be rented. It is located in the middle of Letchworth State Park at the entrance to the Highbanks Camping Area. For winter use, it is ideal for snowmobilers as it connects to the NYS snowmobile trail system. The facility sleeps up to eight people and consists of a furnished kitchen, living room with a working fireplace, TV and VCR, a formal dining room and a full size bath with a shower on the first floor. There are two bedrooms and a powder room upstairs and one small bedroom on the first floor. Linens are not provided.
Campers can take advantage of tent and trailer campsites as well as winterized cabins. Group camping facilities are also available.
Hunters, please note: There will not be a 2013 hunting permit lottery. Permits will be issued to the first 500 applicants for deer hunting. Details on the new process can be found here and applications can be found here.
Shelter Application and Information
Tent/Trailer Campsite Information and Rules
Pets
Household pets only; caged or on a leash not more than 6 feet. Proof of rabies inoculation. Not allowed in bathing areas, buildings, cabins or camping loops 300, 400, 500, 600 and 800. For campers, if your site allows pets, there is a two-pet maximum.
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This article was provided by the New York State Parks Recreation & Historic Preservation
