Golden Hill State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Golden Hill State Park is located on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario in New York.
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Summary
It covers an area of 510 acres and is known for its beautiful views of the lake and its historic landmarks. There are several good reasons to visit the park, including fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and picnicking.
One of the most popular attractions at Golden Hill State Park is the lighthouse, which was built in 1825 and is still in operation today. Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse and learn about its history. Another landmark is the Sodus Point Lighthouse, built in 1870, which is also open for tours.
The park has several trails for hiking, including the Lakeview Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. Visitors can also rent boats and enjoy a day on the water, or fish for salmon, trout, and other species in Lake Ontario.
Interesting facts about the area include its history as a military site during the War of 1812. The park was also a popular spot for bootleggers during the Prohibition era, and visitors can still see the remains of the bootlegging operation.
The best time of year to visit Golden Hill State Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the lake is at its best for swimming and boating. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Overall, Golden Hill State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, nature, and outdoor activities. Its beautiful views of Lake Ontario, historic landmarks, and recreational opportunities make it a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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