This lovely little park is a hidden gem on the shores of Canandaigua Lake. A great gathering place for families in the summer to eat, swim, and enjoy the beauty of the Lake. This is a fun and affordable way to stay on Canandaigua Lake without breaking the bank. Even if you don’t plan on staying here, you can enjoy an afternoon of summer fun.
History
This park began as a YWCA camp in the late 1800s. It was purchased in 1989 in a joint venture between the Town of Canandaigua and New York State and opened to the public in 1990.
Activities at Onanda Park
Whether you are just visiting for the day or staying for a weekend, Onanda Park has lots of activities to enjoy. We enjoyed just taking a stroll along the beach and taking in the view of Canandaigua Lake.
Swimming
There is a terrific swimming area in Canandaigua Lake. There are schedules for when swimming is permitted, and a lifeguard must be on duty.
Fishing
There is a fishing pier at Onanda Park, and fishing from the shore is always permitted. The fishing in Canandaigua Lake is excellent. Species commonly found in the lake are: Alewife, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Brown Bullhead, Brown Trout, Burbot, Chain Pickerel, Lake Trout, Lake Whitefish Largemouth Bass, Pumpkinseed, Rainbow Trout, Rock Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Smelt, Yellow Perch. The Lake Trout and Brown Trout are stocked annually, while the Rainbow Trout breed naturally.
Boat Launch
There is a boat launch where you can launch car-top (ie: canoes and kayaks) all year round. The boat Launch is open to other boats only from November 15 to April 15. It is closed to anything but car top launches throughout the summer and fall.
Picnicking
There are 5 pavilions and 3 lodges that are available to rent for gatherings and special occasions. There are also numerous picnic tables and grills.
Hiking
There is excellent hiking available across the street at Barnes Creek. You can hike the rim trail about the creek or hike through the creek. The creek hike is perfect for a warm summer day, and there are waterfalls at the end of the hike.
Cabins
Interested in saying on Canandaigua Lake? You can affordably rent one of the 15 cabins situated around the park and enjoy a relaxing vacation on Canandaigua Lake. Most of these cabins are rustic and only provide the barest of essentials. Most do not have showers or toilets, but the bathroom facilities are nearby. The park does have some stringent regulations.
- No dogs are permitted in the park or cabins, except service animals
- No alcohol is permitted in the park
- No skateboarding, roller-blading, or biking is permitted on the lakeside.
Getting to Onanda Park
Onanda Park is located on County Rd 16 (West Lake Rd.)
Other Places to Visit in the Area
Have you visited Onanda Park? What did you think? Do you have a favorite park in New York State? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.