Sampson State Park

Sampson State Park is a large park on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, stretching across roughly 2,000 acres with several miles of shoreline. The grounds include designated camping areas, a marina, boat launch sites, and multiple zones for swimming, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.

The land was a Naval Training Station during World War II from 1942 to 1946, training soldiers before being converted to a state park after the war. This transformation marked a major shift from military use to a space for public recreation.

The grounds hold traces of past communities, with remnants of an earlier settlement and a burial ground for early settlers that visitors can still explore. These places remind you of the people who lived here, giving the park a sense of connection to the region's roots.

The park offers multiple camping areas with electric hookups and a marina with boat slips at different locations throughout the grounds. It helps to check ahead about which facilities are open during your visit, as some amenities operate seasonally.

The park includes baseball fields, basketball courts, and a sandy beach with designated swimming zones spread across the grounds. This variety of sports and recreation options makes it a versatile destination for families with different interests.

Location: Seneca County

Operator: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Phone: +1(315)5856392

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/sampson/details.aspx

GPS coordinates: 42.73600,-76.90800

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57