Buttermilk Falls State Park - United States
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About Buttermilk Falls State Park
RV quick facts for Buttermilk Falls State Park
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Delivery only
Delivery only
Delivery only
Superhost
Best time to visit Buttermilk Falls State Park
Late June through early September is the prime window, when warm temperatures, reliable trail access, and the guarded swimming area at the lower falls are all available. Early summer brings the strongest waterflow over the cascades after spring runoff, while late September and early October offer cooler hiking weather and Finger Lakes fall color with thinner crowds. The campground typically operates from mid-spring through mid-fall, so RV travelers planning shoulder-season trips should confirm opening and closing dates before arrival. Winter visits are limited to day use, with the Gorge Trail closed seasonally for safety.
Campground closed; day-use only with Gorge Trail closed for winter
Campground closed; winter conditions
Campground closed; Gorge Trail typically still closed
Campground typically closed early in the month; strong waterfall flow
Campground opens mid-month; cool evenings
Swimming area opens; reserve early
Peak season; campground fills on weekends
Peak season; warm and humid
Comfortable hiking; early fall color toward month end
Campground typically closes around Columbus Day weekend
Campground closed; day-use only
Campground closed; Gorge Trail closed for winter
Things to do at Buttermilk Falls State Park
- Gorge Trail ModerateRV parking available
The Gorge Trail is a stone staircase route that climbs alongside Buttermilk Creek past ten waterfalls and sculpted pools. It starts at the lower park near the main parking area and gains elevation quickly on stepped terrain.
- Rim Trail ModerateRV parking available
The Rim Trail runs along the forested upper edge of the gorge and offers overlook views of the cascades below. Hikers typically pair it with the Gorge Trail to form a loop of roughly 1.5 miles.
- Swimming at the Main Falls EasyRV parking available
A stream-fed natural swimming area sits at the base of the first large waterfall in the lower park. It is open during the summer season when lifeguards are on duty.
- Lake Treman and Treman Lake Trail Easy
Lake Treman is a small, quiet reservoir in the upper park surrounded by an easy loop trail. It is a good option for an easy forest walk away from the busier gorge.
- Bear Trail Loop Moderate
The Bear Trail follows the west side of Buttermilk Creek and connects the lower and upper park areas. It offers a longer, quieter hiking option through hardwood forest with stream access points.
- Larch Meadows Nature Trail EasyRV parking available
Larch Meadows is a flat interpretive loop through wetland and meadow habitat near the campground. It is well suited for a short walk, birdwatching, or stretching legs between longer drives.
- Picnicking and Playground at the Lower Park
The lower park has open picnic lawns, shaded tables, and a playground near the swimming area. RV day visitors commonly use this area as a base before heading onto the Gorge Trail.
Top Hosts near NY, United States
Alexander was extraordinarily helpful and truly went above and beyond to ensure we had a wonderful time. He responded quickly and was very pleasant to interact with. The RV itself was spotless and came with everything our three children and two adults needed, including ample cooking supplies.Go ahead and book; you'll be happy with your rental!
Michael P. - Aug 2026
Perfect RV to rent for our family of 5. Plenty of sleeping space. Very clean RV!!! I chose the delivery option, which made it so easy. Alex showed up exactly when he said and set everything up for us. He was very thorough showing us how everything works, etc. I would 100 percent recommend this RV. We will be renting from him again in the future!
Rebecca D. - Aug 2026
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RV Rentals Buttermilk Falls State Park
Buttermilk Falls State Park, NY, United States
How to get to Buttermilk Falls State Park
The park sits on Route 13 about 2 miles south of downtown Ithaca, roughly a 4 to 4.5 hour drive from New York City, about 1 hour from Syracuse, and around 2.5 hours from Rochester or Buffalo. Most RVers approach on NY-13 or NY-96B, both of which include rolling Finger Lakes grades but no major tunnels or low-clearance bridges near the park entrance. Drivers should be cautious of steep, winding sections on the back roads between gorges in the Ithaca area and avoid narrow shortcuts through residential streets. The closest commercial airport for fly-and-rent trips is Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, with larger options at Syracuse Hancock International and Greater Rochester International.
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