Are there fees or permits required for Lampsons Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Lampsons Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Lampsons Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Lampsons Falls.

Live Conditions · 467 ft³/s · Lower than usual

Lampsons Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Lampsons Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Lampsons Falls.

New York • 40 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

3D terrain

Grass River Wild Forest SCA · SDC

Photo Credits (5)

Decaseconds CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.2 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Lampsons Falls

Lampsons Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Grass River Wild Forest in St. Lawrence County, New York. It is known for its wide cascade and serene surroundings, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

The Setting

Lampsons Falls sits at 755 feet within Grass River Wild Forest, fed by the Raquette River, in the foothills of New York. The falls drop 40 feet.

Height: 40 feet

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The trail to Lampsons Falls is a short and relatively flat path through a forested area. It is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it suitable for most visitors, including families with children.

What to Expect

The falls drop 40 feet. Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lampsons Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Lampsons Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Lampsons Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these times.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Be cautious near the water, as rocks can be slippery. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become muddy or icy.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 1 day ago Moderate

467 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

384 696 1.5k 1.7k

Based on 65 years of record

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

RAQUETTE RIVER AT SOUTH COLTON NY

USGS 04267500

11.7 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 937 sq mi

Altitude: 882 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge RAQUETTE RIVER AT SOUTH COLTON NY (19 km away).

Moderate confidence

Moderate right now

130 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Moderate

130 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

118 cfs

6/10

Thu

Moderate

140 cfs

5/10

Fri

Moderate

151 cfs

6/10

Sat

Moderate

140 cfs

8/10

Sun

Moderate

140 cfs

5/10

Mon

Moderate

153 cfs

6/10

Best window: Sat — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early June, peaking in April.

How we calculate this

This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Star Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain Around Lampsons Falls

High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.

Aerial view of the ground around Lampsons Falls near Star Lake, New York

The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Lampsons Falls is located off County Route 27 near Clare, New York. The trailhead is well-marked and accessible by car.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area near the trailhead, which can accommodate several vehicles.

Elevation

755 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.405618° N, -75.071312° W

Land Management

Grass River Wild Forest SCA

Managed by SDC

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.