First State Park in the United States: Niagara State Park

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls State Park was established as the first state park in the nation in 1885, following more than 15 years of advocacy from the Free Niagara movement, which sought to protect the natural beauty of Niagara Falls from commercial exploitation and to ensure public access.

NY Firsts - Niagara Falls State Park — Views of Niagara Falls, including Luna Falls and Island and Rock of the Ages, from the Maid of the Mist tour boat, c. 1935. New York State Archives.

NY Firsts - Niagara Falls State Park Footbridge — Niagara Falls from a footbridge, c. 1895. New York State Archives.

NY Firsts - Niagara Falls State Park Opening — Niagara Falls Park opening celebration b, c. 1885. New York Heritage.