A new 90-acre state park is now open along the western shore of Cayuga Lake, offering public access to trails, shoreline, and nature observation in the Finger Lakes. Once a private Boy Scout camp, the site has been transformed into parkland for passive recreation, with more features planned.
Located in Seneca County, just north of Taughannock Falls State Park, the property includes 0.5 miles of Cayuga Lake shoreline, a dock, bathrooms, a caretaker’s house, and the 128-foot Frontenac Falls. The state purchased the land from the Baden-Powell Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which had operated it as Camp Barton.
Local leaders to manage the new public park
A local partnership called the Three Falls Local Development Corporation will oversee the park. The group includes the Town of Covert, Town of Ulysses, and the Village of Trumansburg. These municipalities signed a 10-year agreement with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) to operate the site.
The partnership has secured a $100,000 grant from the state’s Parks and Trails Partnership Grants program. The funds will help assess the facility’s needs, complete urgent repairs, and support long-term planning.
“This park will provide even more recreational opportunities in the region for visitors to explore and experience Cayuga Lake and its surroundings,” said State Parks Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons.
Opening long-restricted land to the public
The site had been privately used for more than 100 years. Local officials say the new park finally makes a unique lakeside landscape available to the entire community.
- Deborah Nottke, Covert Town Board Member: “A future enjoying this treasure that had been hidden from the public for over 100 years can now be shared and experienced by all.”
- Katelin Olson, Ulysses Town Supervisor: “This tremendous accomplishment will benefit our community now and future generations of children and adults alike.”
- Rordan Hart, Trumansburg Mayor: “Preserving the Camp Barton site for public access is an incredible benefit for the entire community.”
The Town of Covert recently built a new bridge at the park’s north entrance. It allows cars and pedestrians to safely enter the site. The state has also completed several safety upgrades.
Conservation and future development goals
Adding this property to the state park system helps New York advance its goal of conserving 30% of land and water by 2030. That target aligns with the global 30×30 Initiative to protect natural spaces.
Paul Steely White, Executive Director of Parks & Trails New York, called the project a “cooperative triumph for public recreation” and praised the collaboration behind it.
Future plans for the park may include:
- Environmental education programs
- Cultural events and gatherings
- Additional recreational features
What happens next?
Officials will announce the park’s formal name and dedication date in the coming months. Under the current agreement, the Three Falls Local Development Corporation has the authority to:
- Maintain and operate the park
- Set fees if applicable
- Approve recreational activities and events
- Renew the agreement after 10 years
This project represents a major win for conservation and community access in the Finger Lakes. Visitors are already welcome to enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, and the park’s scenic lakeside views.
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