Enjoy both wildlife-watching and snapping some photos at Buttermilk Falls State Park. It’s located near the city of Ithaca in Tompkins County and takes its name from the foaming cascade formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows through the steep valley toward Cayuga Lake. Its diverse habitats harbor an equally diverse array of wildlife.
As you ascend Buttermilk Creek’s steep gorge, the sound of deep, rhythmic knocking may lead you to spot the impressive pileated woodpecker. Listen and look for the many songbirds and owls as you hike past potholes and waterfalls to Buttermilk Falls.
Among the wildlife at Buttermilk Falls State Park is the gray petaltail dragonfly, which has been around since the days of the dinosaurs. Beavers, muskrats, hawks, and great blue herons are attracted to the park’s wetlands. At dusk, look for coyotes, foxes, and bats, or perhaps you’ll even be surprised by the sight of a flying squirrel.
The 811-acre park was founded in 1924 from a gift by Robert and Laura Treman. It features 10 waterfalls in total, with Buttermilk Falls being the main attraction.
The park also offers a beach, cabins, fishing, hiking, hunting, nature trails, pavilions, a playground, playing fields, recreation programs, and a campground with tent and trailer sites.
The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas and playing fields. The lower park has a campground, natural pool and playing fields, beyond which is Larch Meadows. Larch Meadows is a wetland area through which a nature trail winds.
Buttermilk Falls has one pavilion which accommodates 73 people. The pavilion has a 2-day minimum rental and is $100 per day and should be reserved through through the Reserve America website. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com
A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length.
Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Buttermilk Falls State Park is located southwest of Ithaca in thee Finger Lake Region of New York State.
Photo: Buttermilk Falls in June 2022.
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