Golden Hill State Park
00 review9691 Lower Lake Rd., BARKER, New York, 14012, United States
Golden Hill State Park
$7.00 - $200.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary widely: Lighthouse Cottage costs $200 per night with a 2-night minimum. Yurts cost approximately $60 per night and sleep up to 6 people. Campsites start at $7 per night.
About this campground
Perched on the dramatic shores of Lake Ontario, Golden Hill State Park beckons with an enchanting blend of modern comforts and timeless charm. Whether you're pitching a tent under starlit skies, settling your RV into a scenic spot, or seeking the unique experience of a cozy yurt or the historic Lighthouse Cottage, this beloved destination delivers unforgettable memories. Visitors consistently praise the park's meticulously maintained facilities and breathtaking vistas, all while the iconic Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse stands sentinel, weaving tales of maritime heritage into every sunset.
Golden Hill State Park accommodates various camping preferences, offering tent sites, RV sites, and unique lodging options like yurts and the Lighthouse Cottage.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the majestic Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse, a maritime guardian that faithfully served Lake Ontario's sailors until the U.S. Coast Guard extinguished its beacon in 1958. Today, this architectural treasure opens its doors to curious visitors, sharing stories of storms weathered and ships guided home. Throughout the park, you'll discover intriguing remnants of Robert Newell's grand estate, where stone foundations and weathered pathways whisper of gilded age elegance. Guided historical tours bring these stories to life, connecting modern adventurers with the fascinating characters who shaped this lakeside haven.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Golden Hill in spectacular new colors, creating a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland where snowshoe trails wind through hushed forests and snowmobile tracks carve paths across frozen meadows. As spring awakens the shoreline, anglers cast their lines into waters teeming with possibility. Summer brings warm breezes perfect for lakeside camping adventures, while autumn's golden light creates magical moments for hikers exploring the park's scenic trails.
ElevationThe park's gently rolling terrain creates natural vantage points that enhance every view, offering accessible exploration for visitors of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere ancient rocky cliffs meet the endless blue horizon of Lake Ontario, Golden Hill State Park showcases nature's artistry at every turn. Weathered limestone formations frame spectacular waterfront panoramas, while expansive meadows ripple like green seas in the breeze. Wildlife enthusiasts delight in spotting industrious beavers engineering their wetland homes and brilliant bluebirds darting through sun-dappled clearings. Each vista reveals another postcard-perfect scene, from sunrise painting the water in shades of gold to moonlight silvering the waves.
Geological RegionNestled along Niagara County's captivating southern shoreline, Golden Hill State Park showcases Lake Ontario's raw geological beauty. Ancient forces sculpted this dramatic landscape, where resilient limestone cliffs rise defiantly from the water's edge, creating a rugged coastline that tells the story of millennia. The park's distinctive rocky shores and lakeside bluffs offer visitors a front-row seat to witness the ongoing dialogue between land and water, where each wave continues the eternal work of shaping this remarkable terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRestrooms and other facilities are noted as accessible, and the park appears to cater to diverse needs.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some offering extra space and privacy, such as site C-45, which is noted for being a corner spot with waterfront views and ample space.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across the park, with some sites offering more seclusion than others. One user mentioned, "The only 'bad' thing about this campground was a lack of trees at each campsite and your neighbors were closer than I would have liked."
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with waterfront views for sunsets. Avoid sewer-adjacent sites like Site 35.
Best CampsitesSite C-45 is highlighted for privacy, waterfront location, and space. Avoid sites 30-33 due to obstructed views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 3 PM.
Check-out
Before 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limit of 2 pets per site
- campsite guest limits not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall, intimate campground layout with a mix of waterfront, utility, and dry sites. Includes yurts and Lighthouse Cottage.
Open and Closed SeasonGolden Hill State Park is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Reserve America website and call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites can be reserved for one-night stays if booked within 7 days of arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations with departure dates outside the 9-month maximum window cannot be changed or canceled until 18 days after the reservation was made. Specific penalty information is not provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Golden Hill State Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities, making it suitable for all seasons. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and even cultural experiences like lighthouse tours. The park also features a playground, disc golf course, and seasonal winter activities such as snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Hiking
Hiking at the park includes shoreline trails and a nature trail. While some users found the trails to be more like 'rocked roads,' others appreciated the scenic walks along the lake.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, but opportunities are limited near the boat launch/marina. One reviewer stated, 'There's not a great fishing area at the boat launch/marina part of the park.'Biking
Biking is available and enjoyed by visitors, though specific details about trails are limited.Boating
Boating is supported with a dedicated boat launch area. One user appreciated the proximity to water activities, stating, 'Great place to kayak.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include spotting beavers and unique birds. A user noted, 'We saw wildlife beavers.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The historic Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse is a major cultural attraction with guided tours available. One user said, 'Definitely recommend the lighthouse tour. That was really neat and the overlook is phenomenal.'Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and five miles of snowmobile trails.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are popular at the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood must be purchased outside the park or at the camp office. Campfires allowed, but specifics are unclear.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsLimited water access due to steep cliffs. Wildlife encounters possible. Some trails are muddy in spring.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 18.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 716-795-3885. Closest hospital or police station information is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and the grounds are described as well-maintained and clean. One review highlighted, "The workers are always riding around and checking on everyone. They are friendly also."
Proximity to water featuresCampground is adjacent to Lake Ontario but has steep rocky cliffs limiting direct access to the water.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of privacy between sites, limited beach access, and proximity to dairy farms causing smell issues.
HostResident hosts conduct lighthouse tours and are described as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
9691 Lower Lake Rd., BARKER, New York, 14012, United States
Driving directionsLower Lake Road is off Route 269 in Barker, NY, via Route 18 or 104. Phone: 716-795-3885.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures are not mentioned, but campers arriving after 9 PM are asked to call the park or risk losing their reservation.Nearby places
Wilson-Tuscarora State Park (~25 miles), Hamlin Beach State Park (~30 miles), Lakeside Beach State Park (~20 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest location for firewood is Crosby’s Barker (Gas station). Several local places sell wood for cash. Office/store on-site sells firewood and ice ($3 for 10 lbs). Nearest grocery store is 12 miles away at TOPS.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Golden Hill State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's cleanliness, scenic views, and unique amenities like the lighthouse and yurts. However, some users mention downsides such as limited privacy at campsites and the absence of on-site firewood sales.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the park's cleanliness, scenic views, and unique amenities. The lighthouse and its tours are a standout feature, along with the clean bathrooms and spacious campsites.
Common Concerns
Users commonly noted the lack of privacy at campsites, limited fishing opportunities, and the absence of firewood sales within the park. Some also mentioned that there is no beach access.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend touring the lighthouse, bringing firewood or cash to purchase it locally, and selecting campsites carefully for privacy and views. One user advised, 'Stay away from the following...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is praised for its vibrant sunsets and lake views, while winter offers unique recreational activities like snowmobiling and snowshoeing. Fall is noted for its serene atmosphere and fewer...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Sunsets at Golden Hill are magnificent.' 2. 'The bathrooms here are the cleanest I have ever seen at a campsite!' 3. 'The yurts I saw sleep 6 people.' 4. 'Definitely recommend the lighthouse...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site C-45 is highlighted as a corner spot with privacy and waterfront views. Conversely, sites 30-33 are critiqued for blocked water views.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are briefly noted, with clean and accessible restrooms being a key highlight.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at most campsites with a maximum of two pets per site. Users appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere but noted that pets are not permitted in the Lighthouse Cottage.
Last updated August 10, 2025