A Brief History of Letchworth State Park

The name Letchworth embodies a legacy of conservation in Western New York. The park is named after philanthropist William Pryor Letchworth, who protected the land from industrial development. Less known is Edward H. Letchworth, his great-great-nephew, who influenced the Buffalo region through civic work and environmental advocacy.

While Edward H. Letchworth did not contribute directly to the state park, his dedication to green space and education is evident in the Letchworth Teaching Forest at the University at Buffalo. Both men committed to safeguarding nature and fostering connections with the environment, values that continue to shape the park today.

Getting to Letchworth State Park

The closest entrance to Letchworth State Park camping is just minutes from Woodstream Campsite, making it easy to get from your campsite to the park and start exploring right away.

There are multiple ways to enter the park, with two primary entrances: the Castile entrance and the Mount Morris entrance. The Castile entrance is often the preferred option for guests staying at Woodstream, as it provides quick access to the park’s southern section, including the Upper Falls and some of the most iconic views from the western side of the gorge.

There is an entrance fee, so plan accordingly. Most entrances accept credit cards. The park is open year-round from 6am to 11pm.

Experience the Waterfalls

One of the park’s biggest draws is its incredible waterfalls. Visitors can walk along the gorge and enjoy dramatic views, especially during the spring thaw when the water is at its most powerful.

Upper Falls stands 70 feet tall and is the furthest south of the falls. This horseshoe-shaped waterfall sits below the Genesee Arch Bridge. Middle Falls is the widest waterfall, known for its 300-foot wide mouth that sends impressive volumes of water into the carved canyon below. Lower Falls offers a more serene and peaceful experience ideal for visitors looking for a quieter setting, with better views accessible from the nearby stairs. Wolf Creek Falls sits close to the Castile entrance and cascades over 225 feet into the gorge below.

Hiking Through the State Park

For hiking enthusiasts, the park offers over 60 miles of trails that vary in difficulty, including one specifically designed for individuals on the Autism Spectrum. The trails cover a diverse landscape ranging from deep gorges and waterfalls to peaceful woodlands and river views.

Genesee Gorge Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park. This 7-mile route follows the Genesee River and provides extraordinary views of the waterfalls and deep gorge. The Autism Nature Trail is a beautifully designed, accessible trail perfect for families, with a sensory-friendly experience, informative signs, and a focus on the natural surroundings. The Hemlock Trail is a quieter path through dense forest, offering a more peaceful walk and an opportunity to connect with the park away from the main viewpoints.

Hot Air Ballooning

For a unique adventure, consider a hot air balloon ride over Letchworth State Park. The park is one of the most popular places for ballooning in the region due to the sweeping aerial views of the gorge, valleys, forests, and waterfalls below.

Rafting on the Genesee River

Rafting on the Genesee River is one of the best ways to experience the park from a different perspective. Several local companies, including Adventure Calls Outfitters, offer trips through the park’s gorge. The river offers exciting rapids alongside calmer stretches where you can slow down and take in the scenery.

Dining at Caroline’s

After a day of exploration, Caroline’s at Glen Iris Inn is worth a visit. Located within the park and overlooking Middle Falls, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes flatbread pizzas, New York strip steak, and a range of dishes suited to a relaxed dinner after a full day outside.

Places to Stay Near Letchworth State Park

For anyone planning Letchworth State Park camping, Woodstream Campsite offers a convenient and comfortable base just minutes from the park. With a range of accommodation options to suit different travel styles, it is easy to find the right fit for your group.

Woodstream Campsite: Your Base for Letchworth

After spending the day exploring waterfalls and hiking trails, return to Woodstream to relax by the campfire with the stars overhead. On-site amenities include a swimming pool, creek tubing, mini-golf, gem mining, an arcade, pizza, ice cream, and a rotating food truck lineup throughout the season.

Accommodation options include cabins for a cozy home base with pet-friendly options available, RV sites with full hookups in creekside and wooded settings, Airstream glamping units and vintage trailers for a more elevated stay, and tent sites for a traditional outdoor experience close to the park.