
Onanda Park
Discover serene Canandaigua Lake shores and enchanting waterfall hikes at Onanda Park. A natural oasis for relaxation and adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Onanda Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover serene Canandaigua Lake shores and enchanting waterfall hikes at Onanda Park. A natural oasis for relaxation and adventure.
"The majesty of Lake Canandaigua rolls out along the pristine shores of Onanda Park, a must-see oasis."

👟 Trail Ready
Wear sturdy shoes for the uphill hikes; trails can be dry and dusty.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be tricky; one lot is close, the other requires a hike. Arrive early!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Barnes Creek Waterfalls
Hiking Trails
Discover enchanting waterfalls on the upland trails. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers!

Canandaigua Lake Views
Shoreline
Enjoy serene lake vistas from the park's docks and shoreline. Perfect for relaxation and scenic strolls.

Upland Hiking Trails
Across from main entrance
Explore scenic trails with potential for wildlife sightings and beautiful natural landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Lake Access & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Trail Ready
Wear sturdy shoes for the uphill hikes; trails can be dry and dusty.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be tricky; one lot is close, the other requires a hike. Arrive early!
💧 Waterfall Chasing
The first big falls are about 1.3 miles in, a fun family-friendly hike.
🛶 Kayak Launch
Consider launching your kayak from the park for a great lake experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Trail Ready
Wear sturdy shoes for the uphill hikes; trails can be dry and dusty.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be tricky; one lot is close, the other requires a hike. Arrive early!
💧 Waterfall Chasing
The first big falls are about 1.3 miles in, a fun family-friendly hike.
🛶 Kayak Launch
Consider launching your kayak from the park for a great lake experience.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen and hats, especially for lake activities and summer hikes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Onanda Park is praised for its beautiful Canandaigua Lake access and scenic hiking trails leading to waterfalls. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, though some note the park area can be small and parking challenging during busy periods.
"The majesty of Lake Canandaigua rolls out along the pristine shores of Onanda Park, where all you need is an Adirondack chair, a full sun, or a thousand stars to guide you to heaven.
This spot is a must-see if you’re staying around the Canandaigua area, specifically off Westlake. It’s a short drive from downtown and the hustle and bustle of Main Street, and an oasis of solitude if you’re looking to escape.
I’m an avid distance runner, so I recommend running a stretch of Westlake and hitting this as a destination or a stop along the way.
Don’t miss the trails directly across the street from the entrance. A nice little hike where you might encounter wild deer."
Matthew Garrepy
"We did the upland hike. Lovely trail. Dry and dusty."
Kathleen Rush
"This is a beautiful park! We went during the off season but we plan to go back during the regular on season. The hiking trails are great with glimpses of a waterfall. Lots of uphill walking though, so be aware of that. Definitely want to come back to launch my kayak here and maybe even rent a cabin to enjoy a few days of swimming and relaxing. Looks really clean and well taken care of. We enjoyed our outing here for the day."
Lisa Powers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Onanda Park is located off Westlake Road, a short drive from downtown Canandaigua. The hiking trails are conveniently located across the street from the main park entrance.
Yes, there are parking lots available. However, parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. One lot is very close to the park, while another requires a longer walk. Arriving early is recommended.
Information on public transport access to Onanda Park is limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car for the most convenient access.
The upland hiking trails across from the main entrance are popular for their natural beauty and potential for wildlife sightings. Wear appropriate footwear as some sections involve uphill walking.
While not explicitly a cycling park, the roads around Onanda Park and Canandaigua Lake offer scenic routes for cyclists. Some visitors have also used RC cars on the trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Onanda Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible destination for all visitors.
While specific hours can vary, the park is typically open for day use. It's advisable to check local listings or the official park website for the most current operating hours, especially if planning an early morning or late evening visit.
Entry to the park is usually free. However, there might be fees associated with specific amenities or rentals, such as kayak rentals or cabin bookings. It's best to inquire directly with park management for details.
Parking at Onanda Park is typically free, contributing to its accessibility. However, it's always wise to confirm this upon arrival, as policies can sometimes change.
Yes, Onanda Park can be visited during the off-season, offering a more tranquil experience. Some visitors have enjoyed its beauty outside the regular on-season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Onanda Park offers hiking on trails with waterfalls, swimming in Canandaigua Lake, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic shoreline. It's also a great spot for relaxation and picnics.
Yes, there is a designated swim area in Canandaigua Lake. Lifeguards are sometimes present during the peak season.
The hiking trails are located across the street from the main park entrance and feature beautiful scenery, including glimpses of waterfalls. Be prepared for some uphill walking.
Onanda Park is very family-friendly, offering activities like hiking and swimming that kids enjoy. It's a great spot for creating summer memories.
Yes, Onanda Park provides areas for picnics. While there might not be vast open fields, there are spaces to sit and enjoy a meal with family and friends.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfalls on the hiking trails and the scenic views of Canandaigua Lake are prime photography locations. The docks extending over the water also offer great shots.
While not explicitly stated, drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with park authorities or local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Visitors have reported seeing wild deer on the upland trails, and the lake area is home to various bird species and aquatic life like water spiders.
Yes, Onanda Park offers beautiful photographic opportunities year-round. Fall foliage is stunning, spring brings blooming nature, and summer offers vibrant lake scenes.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing image, especially for lake and landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The lake access provides opportunities for swimming and splashing, making it a perfect spot for a summer day out. While the main park area might be compact, the natural beauty and variety of activities ensure a memorable experience for the whole family. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water.
🏃♀️ Active Adventurers & Runners
Hikers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the Barnes Creek waterfalls and enjoy the natural landscape. The trails are well-suited for a moderate workout, and the chance to encounter wildlife adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts can find joy in observing the local wildlife, from deer on the trails to various bird species around the lake. The diverse plant life and the changing seasonal colors offer continuous inspiration for nature photography and appreciation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Onanda Park
These trails are not just about the waterfalls; they provide opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wild deer, various plant species, and even small aquatic creatures in the creek. The trails are generally well-maintained, though they can be dry and dusty, especially during drier months, making appropriate footwear essential.
For those seeking a family-friendly adventure, the 1.3-mile trek to the first major waterfall is highly recommended. It’s a manageable distance for most, offering plenty of points of interest along the way for children to explore and enjoy.
Canandaigua Lake Access and Activities
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities here, with the park serving as a convenient launch point. The calm waters of the lake, especially during the morning, are ideal for these water sports. While the park itself might be described as somewhat small with limited open fields, the allure of the lake and its activities makes it a significant draw.
For open-water swimmers, the northern end of Canandaigua Lake, near Kershaw Beach, is a favored spot, with swimmers often seen on Saturday mornings. While this isn't directly within Onanda Park, it highlights the lake's appeal for aquatic recreation in the vicinity. [^R Reddit tips]
Seasonal Beauty and Experiences
Summer is peak season for lake activities. The water is warm enough for swimming, and the park buzzes with families enjoying picnics and water sports. The long days provide ample time for hiking and soaking in the lakeside atmosphere.
Autumn transforms Onanda Park into a spectacle of fall colors. The hiking trails become even more enchanting with the vibrant foliage, offering stunning photographic opportunities. Even in the off-season, the park retains its serene beauty, providing a peaceful escape for those who appreciate quiet contemplation amidst nature.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit