Panama Rocks Scenic Park is one of the most breathtaking places in New York State. This outcropping of quartz conglomerate sedimentary rock is full of crevices, passageways, towers, small caves, and dens. The park is located in the small town of Panama along the Pennsylvania border.
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Visiting with Children
Panama Rocks Scenic Park was a fun place to explore with our kids. The owners encourage safe exploration of the park. You are welcome to walk, climb and crawl through all the amazing caves, dens, passageways, and crevices in the park, which makes it a ton of fun to explore with older children. Panama Rocks Scenic Park is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to the large tree roots and uneven ground in places.
I would recommend a minimum age of 6 years old. Children need to be old enough to handle the terrain, take directions, and have a healthy dose of self-preservation. There are drop-offs within the park that are as high as 60 feet and people can and have been seriously hurt within the park. The gentleman at the admission counter had a serious talk with my children about the dangers of running in the park. (Not that it stopped me from having to remind my son at least 10-15 times).
Touring Panama Rocks Scenic Park
The one-mile, self-guided hiking trail is gorgeous as it weaves in and out of the giant outcroppings. You want to arrive early in the day, not for crowd control, but to be sure that you can give yourself enough time to enjoy this hidden gem. Climbing over, up, and around the rocks can really wear you out, and starting early will help you have as much energy as possible.
Be sure to carry water in a non-disposable bottle (the park owners do not allow disposable water bottles in the park). No water sources or bathrooms are on the trail, so plan ahead. You will get thirsty, so water is a must. It is very shady in the park due to the trees and huge rocks, and the caves and dens are cooler than the outside air. It’s a good idea to carry a sweatshirt because the temperature is slightly cooler among the rocks, even on a hot day.
I have been to the Panama Rocks Scenic Park twice. Both times were on weekends during the height of Summer, and yet there has never been an issue with crowds when I have been there. In fact, it is exactly the opposite, most likely because Panama Rock truly is a hidden gem. I find it very unusual to come across anyone who knows about this park. This is really sad as it is a fantastic place!
Ax Throwing
If you have ever considered trying Ax Throwing, you can partake in this fun activity safely at Panama Rocks Scenic Park. The experts here will teach you the proper technique and guide you as you go. This is a fun activity for guests who are 12 years old and up.
Hours and Admission
The park is open daily from 10 am-5 pm (last entry at 4 pm).
No pets are allowed.
Photo Credit: Miranda Klepacz
Address
11 Rock Hill Rd., Panama, NY 14767
Google Map Link
Other Places to Visit
Allegany State Park
Allegany State Park is the largest state park in New York State with 65,000 acres of land. Allegany State Park is open year-round and is just as impressive in June as it is in January. Allegany State Park has 18 hiking trails and miles of paved bike trails as well as numerous trails designed for horseback riding. In the winter the park has over 35 miles of skiing and snowshoeing trails and groomed snowmobiling trails.
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