Ontario County Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Ontario County Park is located in western New York State, near the city of Canandaigua.
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Summary
The park is known for its scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests, as well as its many recreational activities.
One of the main reasons to visit Ontario County Park is for its hiking trails. There are over 10 miles of trails that wind through the park, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and a fishing pond for visitors to enjoy.
One of the most popular points of interest in the park is the Gannett Hill Observation Tower. This 60-foot tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and is a great spot for taking photos or just enjoying the view.
Another interesting feature of Ontario County Park is its history. The park was once home to several Native American tribes, and there are still artifacts and historical markers throughout the park that tell the story of these early inhabitants.
The best time of year to visit Ontario County Park depends on what activities you are interested in. Spring and summer are great for hiking and fishing, while fall is a popular time for leaf peeping and enjoying the changing colors of the trees. Winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Overall, Ontario County Park is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in western New York. With its beautiful scenery, recreational activities, and rich history, it has something to offer visitors of all ages and interests.
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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.
Related References
Honeoye Lake Boat Launch State Park
Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area
McJannett Park Park
Onanda Park
Sandy Bottom Park and Nature Trail