Discover 16 parks within driving distance of Albany
"Albany residents enjoy a quick escape to Peebles Island for hiking, river views, and family picnics, just a short drive from the capital’s urban center."
Peebles Island State Park features wooded trails, panoramic river views, and historic sites. Visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the island’s unique natural and cultural resources.
By Spc. Andrew Valenza, Public domain
"As the state capital, Albany offers history, dining, and culture. Residents enjoy quick access to Schodack Island for outdoor recreation and riverside relaxation."
Schodack Island State Park boasts over 1,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and shoreline along the Hudson River. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking, birdwatching, and water-based recreation in a tranquil, natural setting.
"As the state capital, Albany offers rich history and culture. Residents often visit Thacher State Park for hiking, scenic views, and a quick escape into nature."
John Boyd Thacher State Park is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, limestone cliffs, and extensive network of trails. Visitors enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring unique geological formations.
"Visitors from Albany can escape the city and explore the park’s quiet trails and scenic river views, making it a popular day-trip destination."
Mohawk River State Park is a largely undeveloped park in Niskayuna, New York, known for its serene trails and riverside vistas. Visitors enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and access to the Mohawk River.
"Albany residents enjoy a quick escape to Thompson’s Lake for outdoor recreation, family camping, and lakeside relaxation just a short drive from the city."
Thompson’s Lake State Park features a picturesque lake, wooded campsites, and direct access to hiking trails. Visitors enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and winter activities in a serene mountain setting.
"As the state capital, Albany offers museums, restaurants, and historic sites. Residents often visit Hudson River Islands State Park for a peaceful day of boating, fishing, and camping on the river."
Hudson River Islands State Park features primitive campsites, fishing, and wildlife viewing on two picturesque islands in the Hudson River. Accessible only by boat, it provides a serene retreat for nature lovers.
"Albany, the state capital, offers cultural attractions and dining, and is within easy driving distance for those seeking outdoor recreation at Grafton Lakes."
Grafton Lakes State Park offers swimming, boating, fishing, and extensive trails across more than 2,500 acres. Its six lakes and diverse amenities make it a popular destination for outdoor activities in every season.
"As the state capital, Albany residents visit for the park’s mineral springs, concerts, and outdoor recreation, making it a popular weekend getaway."
Saratoga Spa State Park offers mineral springs, performing arts venues, museums, and extensive recreational facilities. Visitors enjoy swimming, hiking, golf, and cultural events in a scenic, historic setting.
"Albany visitors appreciate the park’s peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, making it a popular weekend destination."
Max V. Shaul State Park is known for its serene setting, picnic facilities, and easy access to the Schoharie Creek. Families can enjoy playgrounds, sports fields, and fishing opportunities.
"As New York's capital, Albany boasts rich history, museums, and dining, and is within an easy drive for a day trip or weekend getaway to Moreau Lake State Park."
Moreau Lake State Park is known for its tranquil lake, sandy swimming beach, and miles of wooded trails. Visitors enjoy camping, boating, fishing, and winter sports in a beautiful natural setting.
"As the state capital, Albany provides museums, dining, and shopping, and is within an hour’s drive for those looking to escape to nature at Lake Taghkanic."
Lake Taghkanic State Park is known for its clear lake, sandy beach, and extensive outdoor activities including swimming, boating, hiking, and winter sports. The park also offers cabins, campsites, and picnic facilities.
"As the capital of New York, Albany offers cultural attractions and is a convenient starting point for outdoor adventures in the Schoharie Valley, including day trips to Mine Kill State Park."
Mine Kill State Park is renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and miles of multi-use trails. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking amid beautiful valley views.
"As the capital of New York, Albany offers museums, dining, and cultural attractions. Residents often visit Taconic State Park for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities."
Taconic State Park features rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Its location along the Taconic Ridge makes it a prime destination for hiking, camping, and exploring nature.
By Victoria Stauffenberg, Public domain
"Albany, the state capital, is within an hour’s drive, offering museums, government landmarks, and a gateway to the Hudson Valley’s natural attractions."
Sojourner Truth State Park features forested trails, riverfront access, and interpretive areas celebrating the life of Sojourner Truth. It’s ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the Hudson Valley’s natural beauty.
"Albany residents often travel to the park for its scenic river views, camping opportunities, and as a base to explore the Hudson Valley."
Located on the eastern shore of the Hudson River, Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park features wooded campsites, boat launches, and picnic areas. The park is ideal for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying riverfront scenery.
"As New York’s capital, Albany is a cultural and economic center. Glimmerglass State Park provides a peaceful retreat for Albany residents seeking outdoor adventure."
Glimmerglass State Park features sandy beaches, wooded trails, and the historic Hyde Hall Mansion. The park is popular for swimming, camping, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
