Enjoy an old-fashioned swimming hole at the base of this park’s creek and wander through the sprawling glen and wetlands.
Buttermilk Falls State Park is named after the stunning falls on the creek running through forest bedrock down rapids and cascades on its journey to Cayuga Lake. Explore this ideal spot for a picnic and quality time with the family near green vegetation and flowing water. Photograph the water features and ramble through the woods to forget about city life.
Come to Buttermilk Creek to see the water descending more than 600 feet (182 meters) down cascades and rapids. Enjoy a picnic on the forest floor near the sound of the small waterfalls and birdcalls. Follow the trails meandering through the woods to reach the pool at the foot of the creek, where you can swim. Take a tour of Buttermilk Gorge during the area’s warm summer season. Spot fascinating flora and fauna as you traverse the woodland. The park is home to the grey petaltail dragonfly species, similar to dragonflies that flew with dinosaurs millions of years ago. Capture photos of the glen and wetland area of Larch Meadows. Follow the nature trail that winds through it.
The grant for the land came from the influential Ithaca philanthropists, Robert and Laura Treman, in 1924. At the top of the creek is Lake Treman, which has a picturesque walking path around its circumference. Stay the night at one of the campsites in the park.
The park’s entrance price per vehicle varies by season. There are additional fees for camping and using a cabin or pavilion. The park is open to the public year-round, although camping and swimming are not available in winter.
Buttermilk Falls State Park is a 10-minute drive south of Ithaca in New York State. It is near other rural parks, including the Robert H. Treman State Park and the Ithaca College Natural Lands. The 230-mile (370-kilometer) route north from New York City takes about 4 hours by car.
