Mills Norrie State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NY

Mills Norrie State Park

Mills Norrie State Park offers a scenic waterfront setting on the Hudson River with varied recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.

State Park4354+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

435

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mills Norrie State Park

Mills Norrie State Park offers a scenic waterfront setting on the Hudson River with varied recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mills Norrie State Park is located on the west bank of the Hudson River in Ulster County, New York, near the town of Staatsburg. Covering approximately 435 acres, the park provides a mix of forested areas, open fields, and shoreline along the Hudson River. Its landscape includes gently rolling hills, well-maintained picnic areas, and access to the adjacent Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park, collectively offering more than 700 acres of protected open space. The park is rich in history, named after Ogden Mills and his wife Ruth Livingston Mills, members of local prominent families who once owned the land. Visitors can explore serene hiking trails that range from easy walks to moderate hikes, enjoy fishing and boating on the Hudson River, or relax in one of its campgrounds. The park's boat launch and pavilion area make it a favored spot for river access and picnics. Wildflowers, various bird species, and seasonal wildlife are commonly observed throughout the park, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and families. Additionally, Mills Norrie State Park’s proximity to the Hudson River Greenway provides opportunities for extended cycling or walking ventures along the river corridor. The park's mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and outdoor amenities contribute to its year-round appeal for visitors seeking both quiet nature experiences and active recreation close to the Hudson Valley’s cultural sites.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mills Norrie State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Hudson River waterfront with boat launch and scenic views✦ Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park adjacent grounds✦ Diverse habitats supporting birdwatching and wildlife viewing✦ Well-maintained camping areas suitable for families and groups
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mills Norrie State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Cycling

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Walks

Available in Mills Norrie State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mills Norrie State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free admission; fees apply for camping and boat launch use

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mills Norrie State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Mills Norrie State Park Campground

Offers tent and trailer sites with modern amenities near the Hudson River, surrounded by forested areas.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mills Norrie State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Port Ewen, New York
⌖ 2.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Ewen, New York

Port Ewen, New York, is a Hudson Valley hub for kayaking, hiking, and fishing along scenic riverfronts and quiet trails. Visitors enjoy outdoor pursuits from spring through fall, with charming waterfront parks and protected natural areas.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Rhinebeck, New York
⌖ 2.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rhinebeck, New York

Rhinebeck, NY, is a welcoming Hudson Valley town featuring riverside paddling, scenic hikes, and charming biking routes. Explore historic sites, vibrant festivals, and peaceful nature preserves year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Staatsburg, New York
⌖ 3.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Staatsburg, New York

Staatsburg, NY, offers peaceful trails, river paddling, and historic sites perfect for outdoor lovers looking to explore the scenic Hudson Valley. Ideal for hiking, biking, kayaking, and bird watching from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Kingston, New York
⌖ 4.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kingston, New York

Kingston, NY, is the perfect base for exploring the Catskills and the Hudson Valley, offering hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing. Historic charm and natural beauty combine for memorable adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
West Park, New York
⌖ 6.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

West Park, New York

West Park, NY, offers peaceful Hudson River paddling, quiet hiking nearby, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. A great low-key spot for outdoor lovers wanting nature without crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
High Falls, New York
⌖ 10.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

High Falls, New York

High Falls is a quaint village in the Hudson Valley perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether hiking in lush parks or paddling tranquil creeks, this area offers adventure for all.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mills Norrie State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A Solar Drift into Lenape Lifeways aboard Solaris
ADVEXPEDITION
Kingston, New York
Guided TourADV Bookable

A Solar Drift into Lenape Lifeways aboard Solaris

A 1 hour 15 minute guided cruise from the Hudson River Maritime Museum that pairs an ethnoecological narrative of historic Lenape lifeways with a quiet, 100% solar-powered boat ride.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip