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New York State Parks

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New York
Central Leatherstocking Region
Gilbert Lake State Park
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GILBERT LAKE STATE PARK
GILBERT LAKE STATE PARK
18 CCC Road
Laurens, New York   13796

Phone: 607-432-2114
Reservations: 607-432-2114
Gilbert Lake State Park's lake and three ponds lie in wooded, hilly terrain in the foothills of the Catskills. In addition to cabins and campsites, the park has more than 12 miles of interconnecting trails for hikers, skiers, snowmobilers and snowshoers. Playgrounds and a disc golf course, as well as swimming, boating, and fishing are also featured.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
AccommodationsGolf Courseyes
Swimming
1. Gilbert Lake State Park offers a designated swimming area in the beautiful, freshwater Gilbert Lake.
2. Lifeguards are on duty during open hours for safety assurance.
3. Swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are present to ensure visitor's security and well-being.
4. The park provides changing rooms near the beach for swimmers' convenience.
5. Rowboats, canoes and paddle boats rentals available at lakefront enhance water fun experience beyond just swimming.
6. The sandy beach adjacent to the lake makes sunbathing an option after swim sessions.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Rowboats and paddle boats are available to rent, providing an opportunity to explore the lake at your own pace. Canoeing is also popular in this area due to calm waters making it suitable even for beginners. However, private watercrafts or motorized boats aren't allowed on the lake ensuring peaceful surroundings while you enjoy paddling around.
Fishing
You can enjoy fishing in a serene lake setting, home to species like largemouth bass and brown bullhead. The park also offers ice fishing during winter months for adventurous anglers. A variety of panfish including bluegill and pumpkinseed are available too.


Location
Gilbert Lake State Park is located near Oneonta

Picnicking
Gilbert Lake State Park offers picnic tables, grills and pavilions. Enjoy a meal by the lake or in wooded areas.
Bicycling
Biking is permitted on the park's roads and trails, but caution should be exercised due to uneven terrain. The 12-mile trail network offers a variety of difficulty levels for cyclists. Be aware that some paths are shared with hikers; respect their space when biking.

Mountain bikers can enjoy challenging routes through wooded areas, though these require careful navigation. Helmets must always be worn while cycling in this area as safety precaution measures.

During winter months, consider fat tire biking over snow-covered tracks - it's an adventurous option! However, ensure you're well-equipped against cold weather conditions.

Remember: all bike rides should start and end within daylight hours for your own security reasons. Always follow posted signs regarding restricted access or closures - they're there for everyone's protection!

Lastly, do not forget about local wildlife; keep distance if encountered during your ride.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding opportunities with over 200 species recorded. It's home to waterfowl, songbirds and raptors. Birdwatchers can explore three nature trails or the lake area itself for sightings.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 24 Good Times Noodle Salad ! by Bruce Glover
park review stars; one to five my parents brought my brother and I here all thru the 60s we enjoyed renting a different cabin each summmer . swimming was always good , building a fire in the fireplace each night , I only have wonderful memories of this place,
June 16 courteous Staff members. by Jim Wright
park review stars; one to five After visiting the CCC Museum and leaving the park, noticed keys to my car which was parked in Sidney was missing. An in charge staff member quickly and politely came to my aid as we traced my movements about the area with his final suggestion being to check the the entrance to the auto I was riding in.there they were partially hidden under the seat on the passenger side. God Bless him , he saved my day t hanks so much!!!!
May 26 Years
park review stars; one to five I have been to gilbert lake since 1983 every year Since I was 14 months old. I am now 29 so 28 years I have enjoyed it beauty and fun. I am so happy that my son, 8 months old is coming for his first run! Thank you staff and rangers!
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New York State Parks

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