New York State is full of hidden gems, including parks that, for some reason, aren’t on most people’s radar. One such destination is Sheldon Beach Park, formerly known as Flat Rocks. While it is well known locally, most people outside the area have never heard of it. I think its obscure location is what keeps it unknown. The park is hidden behind a factory, and it’s surprising to find such beautiful scenery tucked away there.
Walking the Beach
There is only about 1/4 mile worth of beach to walk, but it is one heck of a stretch of beach. There are large flat rocks that stretch out into Lake Ontario and follow the rocky beach all the way down. The waves come in a crash over the rocks and create small “tide” pools. This makes this a fun place to cool off in the summer.
We visited the first time in the winter, and it was truly amazing. I love to visit lakes in the wintertime, and Sheldon Beach Park did not disappoint. The colors of the rocks and the water, as well as the ice that forms over things, making incredible sculptures and natural art which makes the Lakes in New York State some of my favorite wintertime destinations.
Revitalization Project
The Flat Rocks Park area had a facelift in 2023 to change this popular area into a safe and beautiful new park for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the revitalization to the park, the City of Oswego changed the name from Flat Rocks to Sheldon Beach Park.
Safety at Sheldon Beach Park
There are no lifeguards posted at Sheldon Beach Park, so if you decide to swim you do so at your own risk. The Lake can get very rough at times, so be careful here. In the winter, the ice covers the rocks, and it can be extremely slippery. If the lake begins to freeze over, never EVER try to walk out on the ice. This is exceptionally dangerous. People have fallen through trying to do this.
Summer at Sheldon Beach Park
We revisit Flat Rocks in the summer, which was just as beautiful as I remember, but I could take my time enjoying the scenic beauty in the warmth of the summer sun. This is a great place to wade and cool off on a hot day.
Breathtaking Sunsets at Sheldon Beach Park
Flat Rocks is one of the best places on Lake Ontario to enjoy a gorgeous sunset. We happened to catch a really spectacular one on our last visit. We had a fantastic view to watch as the sun sank slowly into the Lake. Since it is a short walk back to the parking lot, it was still light enough that we could safely walk back to our vehicle after it had set.
Getting to Sheldon Beach Park
Putting “Flat Rocks, Oswego, NY” into your GPS will lead you right to where you need to go. Google hasn’t caught up yet (So Sheldon Beach Park won’t work with Google Maps yet.) On our last visit, the GPS tried to take us down Sheldon Ave. (which is not the right street). The park is located at the bottom of West 6th Street, or you can click our Google Map link.
Google Map Link
Other Places to Visit
Fort Ontario
Explore this historic fort that was built during the French and Indian War. Fort Ontario played an important part in the American Revolution and the War of 1812.
Chimney Bluff State Park
Chimney Bluffs State Park is a natural wonder located on Lake Ontario’s southern shore in Wolcott. These giant formations were created by glaciers in the last ice age and have changed over time due to erosion from the weather. They are an impressive sight when viewed up close.
Wolcott Falls
This is a lovely spot located in the Town of Wolcott, just off Main St. This park is small and, at first glance, doesn’t look like anything special. However, as so often is the case, things aren’t always as they appear. This park has a glorious surprise for those who are willing to look beyond the parking lot.
Have you visited Flat Rocks? What did you think? What season did you visit in? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.
