Stony Brook State Park

Stony Brook has been attracting summer tourists since the late 19th century, with this beautiful part of the world rich in both natural scenery and recreational opportunities. Located in Steuben County, New York, Stony Brook State Park offers rugged beauty, a network of hiking trails, pet-friendly camping, and a long list of other outdoor activities.

For many visitors to this 568-acre park, the highlight is lacing up their walking shoes and tackling one of the three hiking trails. All trails are moderately difficult and approximately one mile in length, and they allow you to take in the best of the park's scenery. The breathtaking Gorge Trail passes three major waterfalls and flows into the stream-fed pool at the park's north entrance, while the Rim Trail climbs the imposing cliffs through the woodlands and offers impressive views.

If visiting the day-use north entrance, you can also find a picnic area with tables, grills, restrooms, a playground, tennis court, baseball field, and more.

The Stony Brook State Park campground is tucked away in a picturesque location in the woodlands above the gorge in the south entrance to the park. It is open from May 4 to October 7 and features 88 campsites, 1 group campsite, and 8 rustic cabins. A vehicle entry fee of $7 applies, while the base camping fee in Stony Brook State Park is $15 per night.

There's no electricity or water on campsites or in the cabins, but there are comfort stations in each campground loop as well as a dump station. Pets must be kept on a leash of no more than six feet and you must have proof of rabies inoculation. A two-pet maximum applies to all campsites, while you'll also need to take care to clean up after your pooch.

Stony Brook State Park offers a beautiful natural escape less than an hour's drive south of Rochester. It's well worth checking out if you're ever planning a pet-friendly camping vacation in this part of the world.