Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Southwick Beach State Park is located in Jefferson County, New York, along the southeastern shore of Lake Ontario near the town of Ellisburg. The park features approximately one mile of sandy beach on the lake’s edge, one of the few natural sand beaches on Lake Ontario, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly recreation. The park occupies about 341 acres and protects diverse habitats including sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and hardwood forests. The park's dune system is ecologically significant, supporting rare plant species and wildlife adapted to the shifting sands and shoreline environment. Visitors can enjoy picnicking areas equipped with tables and grills, a playground, and open grassy spaces for activities. Fishing is popular along the lake and adjacent creeks, with a variety of warm-water species. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when conditions permit. Southwick Beach State Park also features a nature trail that gives visitors a close-up experience of the park’s dune ecosystem and its fragile flora. The park was established in 1953 and is managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Southwick Beach State Park's blend of beach recreation, ecological significance, and accessible facilities draws outdoor enthusiasts from the surrounding region. The park’s scenic views of Lake Ontario sunsets and quiet natural areas make it a favored destination year-round.
