Whetstone Gulf State Park

4.21

39 reviews

6065 West Road, LOWVILLE, New York, 13367, United States

Quick Facts

1,854 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,854 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit site

Official Website

Get Directions

Whetstone Gulf State Park

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite cost is $15 per night, and firewood is available at $5 per bundle. No other fees are specified.

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

3153766630null

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.21

Satisfactory

Based on 39 reviews

224 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulshadestafffriendly

Some mention

noisecrowded

"The campground receives generally positive reviews for its scenic beauty, large campsites, and friendly staff. Some concerns include the cleanliness of restrooms, limited privacy at some sites, and biting flies."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

6065 West Road, LOWVILLE, New York, 13367, United States

Whetstone Gulf State Park

6065 West Road, LOWVILLE, New York, 13367, United States

Driving directionsThe park is located off Route 26, 6 miles south of Lowville, near the Adirondack Park.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, but gravel roads are required to access the reservoir. Seasonal road conditions may impact accessibility.

Nearby places

Lowville (6 miles), Adirondack Park (nearby - unspecified distance), and other nearby attractions include Southwick Beach State Park, Pixley Falls State Park, Westcott Beach State Park, Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, and Wellesley Island State Park.

Nearby supplies

A Walmart is located in Lowville for supplies, approximately 6 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Whetstone Gulf State Park

Experience the full spectrum of northeastern seasons at Whetstone Gulf, where each chapter of the year brings its own magic. Winter transforms the gorge into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 9°F—perfect for those who embrace the stark beauty of snow-laden landscapes. As spring awakens the forest, summer arrives with comfortable 78°F days ideal for swimming and hiking. The changing precipitation patterns throughout the year ensure the creek runs strong and the forest stays lush, creating an ever-evolving backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer offers swimming and activities but can be busy; some sites feel crowded.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall foliage plus dramatic gorge and quieter off‑season make fall especially appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring opens prospects for hiking and paddling though trails can be muddy; park is year‑round.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter offers snowshoeing and cross‑country skiing; gorge is scenic though cold.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: Swimming may be prohibited due to lifeguard shortages or water quality concerns without prior notice.

About Whetstone Gulf State Park

Nestled within a dramatic three-mile gorge carved into the rugged Tug Hill Plateau, Whetstone Gulf State Park offers an enchanting escape where nature's artistry takes center stage. This hidden gem invites adventurers to explore its network of wooded campsites, each offering a peaceful retreat beneath towering canopies. Days here unfold with refreshing dips in the swimming area, meandering hikes along scenic trails, and tranquil moments paddling across Whetstone Reservoir's glassy surface.

The park accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and some electric campsites. Group camping sites and primitive camping options are not explicitly mentioned.

Historical SignificanceBeyond its recreational appeal, Whetstone Gulf stands as a testament to the raw power of geological forces and the delicate balance of northeastern ecosystems. The park preserves a remarkable slice of the Tug Hill Plateau's natural heritage, where millions of years of erosion have sculpted a landscape that continues to inspire visitors with its dramatic beauty and ecological diversity.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of northeastern seasons at Whetstone Gulf, where each chapter of the year brings its own magic. Winter transforms the gorge into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 9°F—perfect for those who embrace the stark beauty of snow-laden landscapes. As spring awakens the forest, summer arrives with comfortable 78°F days ideal for swimming and hiking. The changing precipitation patterns throughout the year ensure the creek runs strong and the forest stays lush, creating an ever-evolving backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

ElevationThe campground's position on the eastern edge of the Tug Hill Plateau creates a unique topographical experience, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery as you explore the varying heights throughout the park.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by nature's grandeur as you venture through ancient forests that frame the spectacular gorge walls. Whetstone Creek threads through the heart of the park, its babbling waters providing a constant soundtrack to your stay. The reservoir beckons paddlers and anglers alike, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding wilderness like a mirror. From intimate forest glens to sweeping gorge vistas, every turn reveals another photogenic moment in this naturally sculpted paradise.

Geological RegionThe star attraction of Whetstone Gulf is its namesake gorge—a three-mile geological masterpiece etched deep into the eastern ramparts of the Tug Hill Plateau. This natural canyon showcases millions of years of patient erosion by Whetstone Creek, resulting in dramatic cliff faces and spectacular overlooks that rival any scenic destination in the Northeast. The interplay between ancient bedrock and persistent water has created a landscape that serves as both playground and classroom for geology enthusiasts and casual nature lovers alike.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Acamping party may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 continuous nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum limit of 2 pets per site, no information on guests.

Groups

No information is provided about group site capacities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spread out but may feel crowded due to narrow roads. Loops accommodate both tent and RV campers.

Reservation PlatformsReserve America website and Call Center (1-800-456-2267).

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are available for single-night bookings made within three days.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations outside the 9-month window cannot occur until 18 days after reservation. Standard cancellation policies apply.

AccessibilityInformation on specific accessibility features for disabled visitors is not provided.

Site SizeSites are generally described as large, level, and nestled among pine trees.

PrivacyMixed reviews on privacy: some sites, like site 50, are more secluded, while others are perceived as crowded with little privacy.

Recommended SitesSite 50 is recommended for families with smaller children due to its wooded outline and proximity to bathrooms. Site 52 features electric hookups.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

The park offers activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming (in a man-made area), playground use, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Canoeing and boating are also popular at the reservoir above the gorge.

HikingHiking trails include a gorge loop around 5–7 miles long. Reviews describe the trails as well-maintained but challenging, with steep inclines, roots, and sheer drop-offs. The trails are suitable for various skill levels and provide scenic overlooks.

FishingFishing at the park focuses on the reservoir, which is stocked with tiger muskie and largemouth bass. One user indicated that fishing locations are not directly within the campground, requiring travel of approximately 5 miles.

SwimmingA man-made swimming area is available, but reviews state the water can be murky and cold. Swimming is not always guaranteed due to safety and water quality concerns.

BoatingBoating opportunities include canoeing at the reservoir above the gorge. Canoe rentals are available at the toll booth.

Wildlife viewingThe park's natural setting offers opportunities to observe various flora and fauna.

Beach activitiesActivities include swimming and sunbathing at the man-made beach area. The beach is described as small, with a dammed stream providing the swimming area.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include sheer drop-offs along the trail, biting flies, and seasonal road difficulties for trailers.

Active AlertsSwimming may be prohibited due to lifeguard shortages or water quality concerns without prior notice.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, and firewood can be purchased at $5 per bundle.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.

Emergency Servicesnull

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials. One user reported no trash disposal locations in the vicinity, requiring campers to manage their own waste.

Water FeaturesThe campground is near Whetstone Creek and Whetstone Reservoir, which are popular for swimming, fishing, and canoeing.

Camp Hostnull

Weather at Whetstone Gulf State Park

Reviews

4.2

39 reviews

Satisfactory

Whetstone Gulf State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground receives generally positive reviews for its scenic beauty, large campsites, and friendly staff. Some concerns include the cleanliness of restrooms, limited privacy at some sites, and biting flies.

Review Summaries

Based on 39 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciate the park's scenic trails, large and shaded campsites, and family-friendly amenities like the playground and swim area. Many noted the park's peaceful environment and helpful staff.

Based on 39 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the cleanliness and maintenance of restrooms, biting flies, a lack of privacy at some sites, and occasional noise from nearby roads.

Based on 39 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing all essential supplies as the park lacks nearby shops. Bug spray is advised, and it's suggested to use the map to select secluded campsites.

Based on 39 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Several users noted that the park is quieter mid-week and off-season, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Summer can be busier, with some sites feeling crowded.

Based on 39 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Our site had 2 picnic tables also a small path going out to the swimming/playground area.' 2. 'If you leave the campgrounds you can go up (on gravel, no maintenance roads) to the reservoir, for...

Based on 39 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 50 is specifically praised for its seclusion and proximity to bathrooms, while site 52 offers electric hookups but may be challenging to navigate for large trailers.

Based on 39 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility feedback from users is available.

Based on 39 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, with a limit of 2 per site. Campers noted the need to clean up after pets, and some criticized management for not addressing unattended pet waste.

Based on 39 reviews

0 review

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Whetstone Gulf State Park? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.

Last updated January 13, 2026

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in New York

Campgrounds

Whetstone Gulf State Park