About this spot
Buttermilk Falls State Park is named for the frothy flow created by Buttermilk Creek descending the steep terrain toward Cayuga Lake. The upper section features a small lake, woodland hiking paths, gorge and rim trails, picnic grounds and athletic fields. The lower section contains camping facilities, a swimming pool and athletic fields, with Larch Meadows beyond—a shaded, moisture-rich area with a nature trail running through it. To reach the jumping area: Take Route 13 south of Ithaca and follow park signage. From the base swimming zone, hike the falls trail upward for approximately half a mile. You'll encounter a roughly 40-foot waterfall, followed by a narrow channel about 8 feet across feeding into it. Continuing another 100 feet, a large circular pool roughly 10 feet in depth appears with a 15-foot cliff face adjacent to it. Above this basin sits a mostly flat ledge with minimal water depth. Jumpers use the 15-foot ledge to enter the basin. Note that water depth is limited to 10 feet and park rangers enforce no-jumping rules with visitor removal. The park operates year-round with camping available mid-May through mid-October. All trails close November 10. Bow hunting occurs during deer season. Pets must be domestic animals only, either caged or leashed at 6 feet maximum, with current rabies vaccination documentation required. Animals cannot access designated swimming areas.