Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls, Niagara County

view of falls and gull on beach

Created in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States. While you may be drawn here by the immense power and beauty of the thundering cataracts, don't overlook the park's surprising diversity of birdlife. The falls are a magnet for huge flocks of gulls. Looking down from the edge of Niagara Gorge in autumn or winter, the air above the turbulent waters is at times white with wheeling and diving gulls.

Wildlife to Watch

  • Nineteen species of gulls, including Iceland, Sabine, great-black-backed and Franklin's gulls
  • Warblers, including yellow-rumped, black-throated blue and chestnut sided
  • Canvasbacks
  • Green herons
  • Red squirrels
  • Fox squirrels

Where to Watch

  • Trails
  • Pedestrian bridges
  • Walking paths
  • Observation tower
  • Maid of the Mist boat ride

Recreational Opportunities

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Recreation programs
  • Visitors center

Size

400+ acres

Directions

Go to Google Maps, and enter your address for step-by-step directions to Niagara Falls State Park. (This link will open a page outside the DEC website. Hold the "Shift" key down, and click on the link to open it in a new window.)

Contact Information

Telephone: 716-278-1796
Website: Niagara Falls State Park (This link leaves DEC's website)

Photo credits: John Rozell, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, DEC