Whitaker Park is the perfect summer destination with primitive camping, waterfalls, and access to the Black River to cool off. We came to see the falls but stayed to enjoy the cool waters of the Black River. This park brags that it has one of the best views of the Black River Gorge, and after seeing it for myself, I wholeheartedly agree.
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Waterfalls & Black River
Of course, the big draw of this park is Whitaker Falls. Unfortunately, we could not view the lower two falls on our visit because it was just too dangerous. Contrary to some sources, the trail to the Falls is clearly marked, but getting to them is quite difficult. A trail from the picnic area (near the visitor parking) runs along the top of the gorge. Once you reach the trail along the ravine, if you go left and follow the trail, you are treated to a view, although patchy between the trees, of the falls from above.
The trail ends abruptly at a fence, which is not subtle with its signage about the property from the point forward being posted and patrolled. Again this a great place to see the falls from above, probably better when the trees don’t have leaves on them, but you can’t reach the river from here. You will need to backtrack and follow the trail toward the camping area. You will come upon a platform with stairs leading down to the River. (If you are camping, another trail from the camping area leads to the platform.)
Once you climb down into the gorge, head left to reach the Falls. Apparently, when the River isn’t full to capacity, which it was when we visited, you can climb down and see the falls. I would not personally recommend this, as it looks incredibly dangerous. There are signs all over the place about proceeding at your own risk.
Not seeing the falls from the bottom was disappointing, but my disappointment was eased with the expanse of the Black River we could explore upstream. We turned back and walked up the River, and we were happy to discover other smaller waterfalls and pools within the River.
It was a hot day, so we relished our time playing in the cool water, reveling in the beauty of the surrounding gorge. We had Nova with us, and she couldn’t get enough of playing in the River. This ended up being a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Camping
There are 44 primitive campsites nestled among the trees on spacious lots. The sites include a fire ring and picnic table. There are porta-potties stationed around the campground. There are pay showers with hot water on premises for $0.25/ 2 1/2 minutes.
No reservations are required to camp. This is a first come first, serve park.
Fee: $10/ Tent site and $15/RV site per night. Only one RV per site per night.
Firewood is sold at the park.
Dogs are permitted but must show current rabies vaccination and be leashed at all times.
Day Use Area
There is a nice Day Use Area at the back of the park with a picnic area, and two pavilions. There is also a great play area for kids. There is no fee for day use of the park.
Getting to Whitaker Park
Address: 5836 Whitaker, Park Rd, Lowville, NY 13367
Google Map Link