Fort Niagara State Park

419

867

4420

5 years ago

In the past I've only come into this state park to go to Fort Niagara. That itself is well worth the visit. This last visit was to attend a benefit play for funding of the restoration of the Niagara Post Theater, another place to visit within the park. While there for the play I wandered around the park a bit. Did you know that they have atleast 18 soccer fields? Not sure why so many but I know one is on the location of an old firing range used by the military years ago, mixing a bit of recreation with history. There's also a beautiful open section of Lake Ontario shoreline to admire. Look across and you'll see the skyline of Toronto. Oh how I miss Toronto! I saw people both fishing and swimming along the shore. There's a large picnic area with both open tables, grills, and pavilions. Love the smells of food coming from picnic areas! I'm going to need another visit to explore the rest of the park. 2021-131 read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Picnic area - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Hello Toronto, close but yet so far. I miss seeing you. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Beautiful shoreline - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Looking out onto Lake Ontario - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Look at the number of soccer fields! - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Tony L.

187

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13222

3 years ago

A great place to go for history or just to be on the southern coast of Lake Ontario to enjoy the sights and more. read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Always a great place for a spell well-spent evening or sunset - - or BOTH!! - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Many enjoy the Ft Niagara beach area. Please do NOT throw rocks at the wildlife. Would you like others throwing rocks at you? - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Crescent Moon and Venus over the lake as seen fm FT Niagara SP - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - A sometime rainbow appears after a storm at the beach parking lot - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Views from the parking lot - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - A fiery background set is very common at Ft Niagara! - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - A sunset together can be so cool! - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Katie M.

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64

112

2 years ago

Great for those who like history and good for all ages. A cute gift shop for some items. Picnic lunch or get something at the log cabin. Bring quarters for the lookouts. read more

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Alex L.

4361

2473

6757

6 years ago

I love this State Park! I had the chance to explore it this past Sunday and while the fort/pool/etc are closed during COVID-19, there's plenty of nice little walks to take and picturesque sights to take in. Parking is free as well. It's a little ways up in Youngstown, but the views along Lake Ontario are gorgeous and you also get to see the beautiful skyline of Toronto on a clear day. You can walk along the beach of Lake Ontario (careful with water levels) - there's a cemetery and a little .25 mile path to jog as well along the Niagara River and a free (during COVID-19) boat launch. I enjoyed jogging through the park--there's a visitor center that's closed and while I can't comment on the fort itself (paid entrance and closed during the pandemic), the State Park is a wonderful solace in nature and a great place to go for a walk, while keeping a safe distance from others. read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Beautiful lake ontario - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Boat launch is free for now - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Nice jogging area - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Dajian D.

30

93

1711

6 years ago

Beautiful family and friends oriented park and pool. You have to pay a fee for entering the park and pay individual fees for the pool area. Children under 7yrs get in free. You can see the Toronto Skyline from the shore of the beach but it's better viewed with a pair of binoculars. Pets are allowed but please clean after them and yourselves read more

Fort Niagara State Park - View of Toronto, Canada skyline from USA - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Zoom in to see the skyline - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Ron W.

Elite 23

21

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5 years ago

An awesome state park located in Youngstown NY. It's a bit out of the way located in the northern most portion of WNY but worth the drive. Located in the park is Fort Niagara, a fortification built to protect the interests of France in North America in the later half of the 1600s. We decided to take the drive to get out and enjoy the summer like weather. When we left our house on Grand Island it was 81 degrees. It was considerably cooler here, 55 degrees with the park being located at the mouth of the Niagara River and on Lake Ontario. Fortunately we had jackets and set out for an awesome walk to see the sights and the signs of Spring. While walking one can see the old fort as well as other buildings constructed for military use. The views of the area are quite beautiful. Looking across Lake Ontario on a clear day you can see Toronto and on any day clear or not, looking across the mouth of the Niagara River you can see Niagara on the Lake Ontario. On our walk we came upon a very old military cemetery located in the park. Many of the tombstones were so old they could no longer be read. Some though were in better shape and painted a sad picture of times gone by in the 1700's and 1800's, with names of young men who died in their 20's and 30's. We walked along a road that was adjacent to the Niagara River and lined by large trees. As we walked I noticed several squirrels actually coming out to watch us go by. These fat little creatures are obviously well fed and not as wary of humans as the squirrels I'm used to seeing. I think some locals are in the habit of feeding them. Our walk around the park was just over 2 1/2 miles with numerous stops to view the sights and scenery. Taking the ride here is definitely well worth it. read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Lake Ontario - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Light house - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Barely readable but you can still make out the story of the 25 year old man who died in 1813. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Memorial in a very old military cemetery - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Memorial marker - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Bachelor's quarters. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Memorial to many young soldiers - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - The story of the Battle of Lundy's Lane. Throughout the park there are signs describing the history of the area. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Tree lined road. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - This building is unfortunately falling in disrepair. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Stacey A.

47

285

469

8 years ago

Fort Niagara State Park has a lot to offer visitors. The fort itself, of course, is a great historical destination where you can easily spend a day. But the park also has a huge swimming pool, picnic areas with grills and tables, playgrounds, soccer fields and a beach. I love walking the beach looking for beach glass. You can't swim at the beach but you can hang out looking across Lake Ontario to Toronto, Canada. I like to ride my bike there from Lewiston. The Niagara Shuttle has a stop right at the fort. There is an $8 parking fee(during the summer months) if you come by car. read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Skipping stones on the beach. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Toronto across the lake. - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Eileen H.

Elite 22

8

263

787

6 years ago

Needed to get out of the house during COVID. We were looking for a different place to take a walk. So we went for a walk on a cold winter's day. The sun peeked out. It felt good. We walked along the shoreline and then found some paths through the trees. There were other people around but not too crowded. Try it. read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Lake Ontario shoreline - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Fort Niagara sign from shoreline - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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Pauline D.

Elite 21

42

94

263

7 years ago

The fort Niagara pool is very clean. They do not accept cards for payment only cash. $3 per adult and $1.50 per child 6-12 years old. Under 6 is free. They have a 2 slides and a kiddie pool. Splash pad is large as well. Lifeguards pay attention and are very friendly. Lots of grass and shade to relax. The area is fenced in but it close to the water so you still get a good view. read more

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Katie C.

0

16

5

4 years ago

The playground is absolutely atrocious. There were sticker plants everywhere. I didn't even let my child play, that's how overgrown it was. Also, there was a lot of trash. Very sad. read more

Fort Niagara State Park - Pricker plants - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

Fort Niagara State Park - Random shoe - Parks Near Me - Youngstown, New York

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More info about Fort Niagara State Park

1 Scott Ave
Youngstown, NY 14174
Directions
(716) 745-7611
Call Now
Visit Website
https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/fort-niagara-state-park

Hours

What time does Fort Niagara State Park open?

What time does Fort Niagara State Park close?

Indoor Amenities

Does Fort Niagara State Park allow dogs?

Yes, Fort Niagara State Park allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Fort Niagara State Park have parking?

Yes, Fort Niagara State Park has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Review Highlights - Fort Niagara State Park

“You can walk along the beach of Lake Ontario (careful with water levels) - there's a cemetery and a little .”

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Four Mile Creek State Park

(24 reviews)

2.8 mi

Four Mile Creek State Park, New York I found this campground…read moreon Https://parks.ny,gov as I was planning a trip, a lifelong goal, to see Niagara Falls. I chose Four Mile Creek State Park for its proximity to the Falls, and nearby attractions like Fort Niagara, an Aquarium, the Niagara Power Vista, and the Underground Railroad Heritage Center, to name a few. This camp offers a shuttle service to these places, no need to worry about parking! I was welcomed by a cheerful office staff and given a map for the Niagara Falls State Park. I went to my site 13, it was nicely shaded and I had access to 30amp service and water a few sites away. The bathrooms & showers were clean and had access to washer/dryer. I met lots of nice people and the weather was great. (6/1 to 6/8) Every member of staff I encountered was friendly and accommodating. Shout out to maintenance staff, Mike, the shuttle driver and Tim, manning the Camp Store. In fact, Tim even circulates the campground every night after the store is closed with ice & firewood. I visited the Falls, walking all over the American side then walked across the bridge to Canada for lunch observing the Canadian side of the Falls. But my favorite thing about this whole journey was the sunsets on Lake Ontario. On clear nights, the city of Toronto is visible. Every night campers would drift down to the field on the lake to watch the sunset. It was the most mesmerizing thing, many different people connecting with this beautiful world.

We love this campground and our tent site! We were near the bathrooms, within sight of the…read moreplayground and could see the water. The little beach area was only about a 3 minute walk. It is such a cool campground and with it you get free parking in downtown near the attractions.

View at the beach

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Joseph Davis State Park

4.3

(7 reviews)

3.5 mi

Love coming here even in Winter, and the crisp cold air is just what the doctor ordered for Winter…read moreinstead of sitting around doing nothing. Today the temps were warm in the mid to high 20s, and the windchill was 10 degrees less - it doesn't bother us! This time when we arrived, we saw a band of teens playing hockey on the ice! They were doing quite well too! Quite a few people were hiking in and out, and there were several cars in the lots. Did not see anyone at the new children's playground. We'll be back!

So I just realized Joe Davis isn't just a great park for summer activities....it's also great for…read morewinter. I found many trails that were perfect for x-country skiing. Quiet and secluded trails leading to picturesque hidden ponds. Wide enough for two skiing side by side in some spots. Meandering trails keep you out of the wind that can be bitter cold out in the open areas (like where frisbee golf is). Many birds flying through the trees, robins, blue jays and hawks too. Plenty of parking and nicely plowed. Fun!

NEW playground!!!

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NEW playground!!!

Queen's Royal Park

(17 reviews)

0.9 mi

We were in NOTL during a sweltering heat wave and would have dearly loved to swim here. But you…read moreabsolutely need water shoes! The "beach" is very pebbly, not sandy, and so is the lake floor. Too sharp and hard on our feet. I wish we'd known ahead of time.

You can't beat the views! You're at the point where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. If you…read morelook across the river, you will see Fort Niagara on the American side (New York State). We did not walk to the Queens Royal Park. We will have to do that on our next visit. Rather, we stopped near the Battlefield of Fort George National Historic Site. When you're done shopping and eating in the town of Niagara on the Lake, make your way over here for nature at its finest. There's a reason why they called this the Great Lakes.

Lake Ontario

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Old Fort Niagara

(81 reviews)

0.3 mi

Old Fort Niagara was amazing. There were people dressed in the time period outfits and shot muskets…read moreand cannons. The dirt is amazingly well preserved and maintained. It is larger than I expected and has a beautiful location right in the river. It was worth the price and worth the trip. There is also a museum which is also quite fascinating. If you any kind of fan of history, you have to swing by. Note: Some of the pics have a yellowish haze because of the huge fires in Canada at the time.

This is a nice visit for history buffs. The grounds are well maintained and the views are…read morebeautiful. It is a little pricey for admission but I do understand the need for funds to help with the upkeep/fundraising. There are several buildings with informative displays and many pieces of history to look at. There is a lot of walking so be warned, especially on a hot sunny day. There are cannon and musket demonstrations as well.

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It's Winter!!

Simcoe Park

5.0

(5 reviews)

0.9 mi

Lovely verdant park, a good twenty minutes drive off the touristy beaten path, north of the Falls,…read morein the beautifully manicured town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. We spent most of the time in this area during our visit. You drive past many lush vineyards on the way here where you can pick up a lovely bottle of wine. Purchase some fromage and a baguette from one of the shops on Queen or King Street. Enjoy a picnic under the trees after a leisurely stroll. You can Thank me later! ;) Thank you for reading

Beautiful little park right in the main tourist drag in NOTL. There were numerous benches and…read morepicnic tables so you could enjoy the park. There is also a great area for kids to play, beautiful flowers and fountains. Great stop for a picnic, to people watch, sit and read a book, or relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Good spot for a picnic - 6/18/2025

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Fort Niagara Soccer Fields

4.0

(1 review)

1.0 mi

Did you know there was once a war between the Falls and Buffalo? Apparently, Buffalo "Fought…read moreNiagara", and won, which is why Niagara Falls, USA is a bit run down now. If they'd won the war, it would all be different. What a shame. But if you go beyond Niagara Falls, USA and journey north, past Lewiston, you eventually reach Youngstown up by Fort Niagara, and there is a beautiful area of grassland and woods and the old Fort where the river meets Lake Ontario. It's a haunting and oft-ignored place. I would come up here for soccer, so this is a review specifically of the excellent soccer fields that are here. It was often windy and cold as hell, but I loved the fields. The grass was lush, green, sexy. It was always a lot of fun. I played here both in the BDSL and also for Woodland United who played at NCCC in a higher league a long time ago, but had away games and cup games here, sometimes. It was a great place to come to and scores a solid 4 despite the windiness, and how far away it is from most people's houses in WNY. And when I was fraught with worry about an upcoming game, I called it "Fraught Niagara".

British Forces Landed at Mouth of 4 Mile Creek

3.0

(1 review)

2.3 mi

This marker is at the intersection of Lockport Road and Route 18, not far from Fort Niagara State…read morePark. It points out some Colonial Era history. The marker reads, "British forces under Brig. Gen John Prideaux and Sir William Johnson landed at mouth of 4 Mile Creek, July 6, 1759. Besieged Fort Niagara." It was erected by Town of Porter Historical Society. The July 1759 assault of Fort Niagara is regarded as a watershed moment in Great Lakes history. Over the course of 19 days, British forces besieged the French-held Fort Niagara. The fort oversaw a crucial canal that connected French colonies along the St. Lawrence River to Detroit, the upper Great Lakes, the Ohio Valley, and Louisiana. On July 25, the French surrender the fort and the British hold Fort Niagara for the next four decades, handing it over to the Americans in 1796. [Review 2054 of 2024 - 557 in New York - 23074 overall]

Nelson Park

3.0

(1 review)

0.6 mi

Nelson Park acts more as a parkING destination rather than a park to visit. Conveniently located at…read morethe start of the Waterfront Trail (and the Niagara River Recreation Trail). You can utilize this park for their parking lot, lovely gazebo or waterfront view. To see more of the Lake or the lovely and quaint neighborhoods, start at Nelson Park and walk through the residential streets around (Ricardo, Queen and Niagara Blvd.) OR, if you're looking for a more active afternoon, start at Nelson Park and head directly across the street to the Niagara River Recreation Trail. This trail leads all the way to Fort Erie but passes some very distinguishable sites including Fort George (literally a five minute walk from Nelson Park), the Niagara Botanical Gardens, Niagara Falls and lots of wineries and a handful art shops along the way; plus it runs parallel to Niagara River for most of the duration. Nelson Park is definitely well-kept, like all the parks I encountered during my start at NOTL, but it's TINY, so more of a pass through than a destination.

Four Mile Creek State Park

(24 reviews)

2.8 mi

Four Mile Creek State Park, New York I found this campground…read moreon Https://parks.ny,gov as I was planning a trip, a lifelong goal, to see Niagara Falls. I chose Four Mile Creek State Park for its proximity to the Falls, and nearby attractions like Fort Niagara, an Aquarium, the Niagara Power Vista, and the Underground Railroad Heritage Center, to name a few. This camp offers a shuttle service to these places, no need to worry about parking! I was welcomed by a cheerful office staff and given a map for the Niagara Falls State Park. I went to my site 13, it was nicely shaded and I had access to 30amp service and water a few sites away. The bathrooms & showers were clean and had access to washer/dryer. I met lots of nice people and the weather was great. (6/1 to 6/8) Every member of staff I encountered was friendly and accommodating. Shout out to maintenance staff, Mike, the shuttle driver and Tim, manning the Camp Store. In fact, Tim even circulates the campground every night after the store is closed with ice & firewood. I visited the Falls, walking all over the American side then walked across the bridge to Canada for lunch observing the Canadian side of the Falls. But my favorite thing about this whole journey was the sunsets on Lake Ontario. On clear nights, the city of Toronto is visible. Every night campers would drift down to the field on the lake to watch the sunset. It was the most mesmerizing thing, many different people connecting with this beautiful world.

We love this campground and our tent site! We were near the bathrooms, within sight of the…read moreplayground and could see the water. The little beach area was only about a 3 minute walk. It is such a cool campground and with it you get free parking in downtown near the attractions.

View at the beach

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Queen's Royal Park

(17 reviews)

0.9 mi

We were in NOTL during a sweltering heat wave and would have dearly loved to swim here. But you…read moreabsolutely need water shoes! The "beach" is very pebbly, not sandy, and so is the lake floor. Too sharp and hard on our feet. I wish we'd known ahead of time.

You can't beat the views! You're at the point where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. If you…read morelook across the river, you will see Fort Niagara on the American side (New York State). We did not walk to the Queens Royal Park. We will have to do that on our next visit. Rather, we stopped near the Battlefield of Fort George National Historic Site. When you're done shopping and eating in the town of Niagara on the Lake, make your way over here for nature at its finest. There's a reason why they called this the Great Lakes.

Lake Ontario

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Olcott Beach

4.2

(10 reviews)

17.9 mi

A great spot to stop to enjoy the view or search for/spot wildlife, or to just hang out! Steps will…read moretake you down and closer to the rocky beach, and there is the rocky remains of what was a hotel there in past centuries, which is a favorite hangout for birds and more. Please don't leave your trash out there; use the many trash receptacles, and keep the area neat clean and tidy!

Small beach in the town of Olcott. There are actually 3 different 'attractions' all close together…read morein Olcott. There's the Olott Beach Carousel Park (closed this year due to Covid), Krull Park, and Olcott Beach. The beach was actually closed last year because of exceptionally high water level in Lake Ontario that totally eroded away the entire beach and covered all the piers. The beach is back this year, though not as wide as it was previously and most of the docks are still under water. It's been a decent place to go this year especially during the week when there's not much of a crowd. The beach was pretty empty on my last visit. Check it out!