Stony Brook State Park
00 review10820 Route 36 South, Dansville, New York, 14437, United States
Stony Brook State Park
$45.00 - $45.00 / 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
The fee is $45 for the weekend as per a user review. No additional details about fee structure provided.
About this campground
Nestled within rolling woodlands, Stony Brook State Park invites campers to pitch their tents or park their trailers among towering trees that whisper stories of the ancient forest. Below your campsite, a dramatic gorge carves through the landscape, where cascading waterfalls thunder over rugged cliffs and time-sculpted rock formations create nature's own amphitheater. After a day of exploration, cool off in the unique stream-fed swimming pool, challenge friends to a game of tennis, or gather the family at spacious pavilions equipped with playgrounds and playing fields. Modern comforts await with clean restrooms and hot showers, while each site offers its own picnic table for memorable outdoor meals. When winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wonderland, the trails become a cross-country skier's paradise.
The campground offers options for tent camping, group camping, and rustic cabins. There are no electric sites or cabins with electricity at this location.
Historical SignificanceWhile the ancient rocks and timeless waterfalls hold their secrets close, the true history of Stony Brook lies in the countless memories created by generations of families who have found adventure and solace within these wooded hills.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of seasonal change at Stony Brook, where each time of year paints the gorge in different hues. Spring awakens the forest with rushing waterfalls fed by snowmelt, while summer brings perfect camping weather with warm days ideal for swimming and cool nights perfect for campfires. Fall transforms the woodland canopy into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter enthusiasts will find pristine snow-covered trails perfect for cross-country skiing adventures. The sweet spots for camping fall during those magical weeks of moderate temperatures, blue skies, and gentle breezes that make outdoor living pure joy.
ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates a natural playground of hills and valleys, offering campsites perched above the dramatic gorge below, where each site provides its own unique perspective of the surrounding woodland landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryThree magnificent waterfalls serve as the crown jewels of Stony Brook, each carving its own path through the dramatic gorge below. Towering cliffs rise like ancient sentinels, their faces etched by millennia of flowing water, while fascinating rock formations provide natural sculpture gardens for exploration. The surrounding hillside forests create a verdant canopy overhead, offering shade in summer and spectacular color displays in autumn. This diverse landscape provides endless opportunities for photography, nature study, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation of nature's artistry.
Geological RegionStony Brook State Park showcases nature's patient sculpting work, where an energetic stream has carved a spectacular gorge through the rolling hills of the region. This geological masterpiece features three distinct waterfalls that cascade through a canyon bordered by impressive cliff faces and unique rock formations, all surrounded by the gentle embrace of hilly woodlands that have stood watch over this natural wonder for countless generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are lacking in certain areas. A user review highlighted issues with shower accessibility for people with disabilities, describing them as 'completely unacceptable.'
Sites SizeCampsites are described as being small and closely packed, offering limited privacy. However, some users noted larger and more secluded sites available in specific areas of the campground.
Sites PrivacyMultiple reviews mention that campsites are very close together with limited privacy. One user stated, 'The camp sites are treated as party sites for families and young kids. Super loud.' Another review mentioned, 'We reserved a campsite marked as a “staff favourite” for privacy but found two campsites basically on top of us.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites are noted as more private than others, but proximity to other sites was a concern.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers are highlighted as best in authoritative sources. One user review mentions a 'staff favorite' site lacking privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 10 AM.
Stay Limit
Acamping party can occupy a site for a maximum of 14 continuous nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific number of guests per site mentioned.
Groups
Group camping is available, but exact details about capacity are not provided. One user mentioned a site 'accommodated 27 people.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTent and trailer campsites are scattered in woodlands above the gorge.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens reservations 9 months in advance. The gorge trail opens late May depending on safety conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Reserve America, which also offers pre-registration 2 days prior to arrival.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo details provided about walk-up/first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or changed only after 18 days following the initial booking if departure dates fall outside the 9-month reservation window.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
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.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Activities you can enjoy
Stony Brook State Park offers a range of activities including hiking, tennis, and cross-country skiing during winter. Several waterfalls are notable highlights of the park, and the gorge trail is particularly popular.
Hiking
The park offers a variety of hiking trails, including rim, gorge, and nature trails. The gorge trail is a standout feature, with one user describing it as 'insanely beautiful.' Another reviewer noted, 'The hiking trails were amazing!' The gorge trail is seasonal and opens at the end of May, depending on safety conditions.Swimming
Swimming is available in the park's stream-fed guarded swimming pool. However, it is noted that swimming opportunities depend on lifeguard availability and water quality testing, which may result in sudden restrictions.Biking
Biking is allowed on paved roads only.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is available during the winter, with three miles of trails maintained.Water Sports
No specific information about non-motorized water sports is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Firewood must be sourced from nearby vendors as none is sold within the campground.
- Quiet hours are From 10 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention problems such as loud noise after quiet hours, traffic noise, muddy sites, and inconsiderate behavior from other campers.
Active alertsThe gorge trail opens late May, depending on safety conditions. Swimming availability is subject to water safety and lifeguard coverage.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services include the ranger station (contact number: 5853355530) and Tri-County Family Medicine located approximately 1.5 miles north on Route 36.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific dates for peak season pricing mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the park's gorge, waterfalls, and a stream-fed swimming pool.
Common complaintsComplaints include small and crowded campsites, noisy surroundings, muddy or rough site conditions, and inconsiderate camper behavior.
HostUser reviews describe campground staff and rangers as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
10820 Route 36 South, Dansville, New York, 14437, United States
Driving directionsThe park is located several miles south of Dansville. Take I-390 to Route 36 South. North Entrance: 10820 Route 36, Dansville NY 14437. South Entrance: 10518 County Route 47, Dansville NY 14437.
Access is primarily via paved roads including I-390 and Route 36 South; no seasonal closures mentioned.Nearby places
Dansville (2 miles), Letchworth State Park (approximately 15 miles), Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area (approximately 20 miles), Honeoye Lake Boat Launch State Park (approximately 30 miles), and Watkins Glen State Park (approximately 55 miles).
Nearby supplies
Firewood is sold by private vendors near the campground. The closest reliable vendor with good firewood is approximately 1.5 miles north on Route 36 across from K's Canine & Tri-County Family Medicine. No other mention of supplies like groceries or fuel available nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Stony Brook State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Stony Brook State Park are mixed. Positive experiences highlight the park's natural beauty, particularly the gorge trail and waterfalls, while negative feedback often focuses on campsite proximity and noise levels.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive comments include well-maintained grounds, beautiful trails, and a family-friendly environment. One user mentioned, 'The campground was clean and most people were friendly.' Another stated,...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include lack of privacy between campsites, noise levels, and issues in the men's bathrooms. One user described the campsites as 'treated as party sites for families and young kids....
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include purchasing firewood north on Route 36, as firewood sold near the park entrance is considered overpriced. Plan for cabins without electricity or water, and consider quieter...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the park's beauty and family-friendly atmosphere but note crowding and noise. Winter reviews focus on activities like cross-country skiing but lack specific details.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The gorge trail is insanely beautiful.'
2. 'I've been here so many times in the past 20 years, and it's always exactly as I remember. I absolutely love it here.'
3. 'If you’re a mature camper,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites offer more privacy than others, but overall, the campsites are described as small and close together. One user noted, 'We reserved a campsite marked as a “staff favourite” for privacy but...
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Accessibility Features
A user with disabilities criticized the accessibility of the public showers, describing the facilities as 'completely unacceptable.'
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with a limit of two pets per site. One user emphasized the importance of having proof of rabies inoculation at check-in as required by park rules.
Last updated August 10, 2025