Gilbert Lake State Park

While some are busy preparing for the holidays, birders across the state have been waiting for December for another reason. DEC recommends that the public not f...eed birds whenever bears are active, generally from April through November. Bird feeders can attract bears, resulting in problems for both bears and people. Now in December, most bears will soon enter their dens for the winter. If mild weather persists, bears may remain active a bit longer. But as the snow begins to fly, it will soon be safe to put out your feeders again! Black oil sunflower, seed mixes, and suet cakes are among a few treats you can offer to attract birds to your backyard this winter. Picture: A female Downy Woodpecker feeds on a block of suet. Downy Woodpeckers are the most likely woodpecker species to visit a backyard bird feeder. Suet provides a high-calorie food which is especially valuable in cold weather. Suet feeders can also attract other birds like: nuthatches, chickadees, and jays. #WildlifeWednesday Photo by David Denk

Enjoy the new bike trail! Just a reminder, park roads will be maintained only as far as the Briggs parking lot and there are no facilities available this year due to COVID-19.

Fall at Gilbert Lake is such a peaceful time. The campground and cabins are closed, but the park is open for walking, picnicking and hiking. Restrooms are closed (as of 10/8/20) but there will be a portable toilet in the Briggs parking lot. Pets are welcome - on a 6 foot leash. Please be sure to pick up and properly dispose of your dog waste.

Happy Labor Day! Today is our last full day open for 2020. The park will continue to be open for day use from dawn to dusk with no fees. *There will be NO LIFEGUARDS on duty. *ALL camping areas are closed to visitors and vehicles. Our construction projects will be continuing - please follow all road signs related to detours and road closures. *Office hours will be limited - please call 607-432-2114 with any questions. *Metal detecting permits are required and can be obtained by contacting the office at 607-432-2114

Walk the lake trail and read a story along the way! #storybook trail

Due to Tropical Storm Isaias, our beach will be closed today, Tuesday August 4th. The concession stand and ticket booth are closed as well. The office is open if you need assistance, but the phone is still out of order, so you will need to message us here on Facebook!

Hiking or Biking Challenge #8 - Gilbert Lake Loop This is the final hike of the summer! Remember you can finish up any other trails and upload your selfies. Be ...sure to tune in next week for a special challenge. We have several groups and individuals who are soooo close to getting all of their hikes/rides done. Message us if you think you might be missing a trail or two. We can help you figure out which ones you have left. Be sure to snap your selfie at this picnic shelter and upload it to this post for a chance to win later in the summer. The guidelines for the challenge are pinned to the top of the page. #OutdoorChallenge #SafeSoberSummer

Once again, our office phones are out of order! The beach is open 11am-7pm. We are NOT renting boats due to COVID-19. Concession stand (cash only) is open 11-6. Camping reservations are required - NO walk-ins are allowed. Cabins rent for a 7 night minimum and all reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. If you have a reservation, you may come to the park any time - no need to wait until 5pm - you may use the park all day and then come to check in later when your site/cabin is ready!

We have had this guy visiting the office for the last few days... photo cred: Katy Bridgers

Road closure for 10,000 gallon tank installation. Should be done in a few more hrs. Sorry for any inconveniences. (road is detoured)

Our frisbee golf has been upgraded and now meets regulations