Beaver Island State Park

Grand Island, New York
Established 1935
950 acres
Beaver Island State Park hero image

By Department of Commerce. Bureau of Lighthouses. 1913-7/1/1939, Public domain

Beaver Island State Park, located on Grand Island in the Niagara River, offers scenic river views, sandy beaches, and a variety of recreational activities. The park features an 18-hole golf course, picnic areas, nature trails, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Entrance Fee

7

Visiting with Dogs

Dogs allowed on leash; not in buildings, playgrounds, or beach. Owners must clean up and supervise pets.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Visitors love Beaver Island State Park’s river views, clean facilities, beach, trails, and year-round activities, making it a top spot for families, golfers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips from Visitors

  • Arrive early for best parking spots.
  • Bring binoculars for bird watching.
  • Check weather before planning water activities.
  • Pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Leashed pets are welcome in designated areas.
  • Restrooms and picnic areas available.

Amenities

EV ChargingKids PlaygroundRestroomsParkingPicnic AreasBoat LaunchGolf CourseSwimming BeachPlaygroundSheltersFishing PierNature CenterConcession Stand

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Beaver Island State Park:

  • Buckhorn Island State Park
    A nature preserve with wetlands, wildlife viewing, and peaceful walking paths located on the northern tip of Grand Island.
    6 miles away
  • Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum
    A family-friendly museum celebrating carousel history with interactive exhibits and restored rides.
    11 miles away
  • Niagara Falls State Park
    Home to the iconic Niagara Falls, this park offers breathtaking views, walking paths, and visitor attractions.
    14 miles away

Things to Do at Beaver Island State Park

FishingBoatingGolfingSwimmingPicnickingBirdwatchingBikingCross-country SkiingSnowshoeing

Camping at Beaver Island State Park

No camping at Beaver Island; try nearby Four Mile Creek or Branches of Niagara for overnight stays.

Hiking Trails

Beaver Island State Park offers easy, scenic day hiking along well-maintained trails that wind through woodlands, wetlands, and along the Niagara River. Hikers enjoy peaceful views, abundant wildlife, and accessible paths suitable for families and casual walkers. The park’s flat terrain and paved loops make it ideal for all skill levels, while riverside vistas and picnic areas provide relaxing spots to rest and take in the natural beauty.

Beaver Island Perimeter Trail

Easy

A scenic loop trail that circles the park, offering views of the Niagara River and diverse wildlife habitats.

4.2 mi
1.5 hours
65 ft gain
Easy difficulty

East River Marsh Trail

Easy

A flat trail through marshlands and along the river, ideal for birdwatching and nature observation.

2.1 mi
45 minutes
30 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Woodland Nature Trail

Easy

A shaded trail winding through wooded areas, perfect for families and casual hikers.

1.3 mi
30 minutes
40 ft gain
Easy difficulty

River Overlook Trail

Easy

Short trail leading to a scenic overlook of the Niagara River, with benches and interpretive signs.

4,224 ft
20 minutes
20 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Directions

Take I-190 to Exit 18B (Beaver Island State Park). Follow Beaver Island Parkway south to the park entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities are available at Beaver Island State Park?

Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, golfing, hiking, biking, picnicking, and birdwatching. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular.

Is there a beach at Beaver Island State Park?

Yes, the park features a sandy swimming beach on the Niagara River, open seasonally with lifeguards on duty during peak times.

Are dogs allowed in Beaver Island State Park?

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on the beach or in buildings.

Is there a fee to enter Beaver Island State Park?

Yes, there is a vehicle entrance fee, typically charged from May through October. Empire Pass holders enter for free.

Are there picnic areas and shelters available?

Yes, the park offers numerous picnic tables and shelters, some of which can be reserved in advance for group gatherings.

Can I launch a boat at Beaver Island State Park?

Yes, the park has a boat launch ramp with access to the Niagara River. Kayaks and canoes are also permitted.