Park Data
Location:
6121 Chestnut Ridge Road | Orchard Park, NY 14127 | (716) 662-3290
Reservations:
Shelter reservations call (716) 858-8355
For enclosed shelter/building reservations call (716) 858-8355 from 8:00 to 4:00 weekdays or click here to fill out an electronic request
Facilities:
Baseball, Bicycling, Handicapped Facilities, Hiking Trails, Picnic Areas, Cross-country skiing, Sledding, Snowmobiling, Softball, Tennis, Tobogganing Chutes, Disc Golf
Click here for detailed information on shelters
"One of Erie County's jewels that is loaded with wildlife"
History
Chestnut Ridge, named by early settlers of the region for the wealth of Great Chestnut trees on the hills. The park is approximately 1213 acres. The structural foundation of the parks Adirondack shelters are composed of converted timber from the diseased Great American Chestnut trees. The Casino, est. in 1925 provided a meeting area for public and private uses. Included in the Casino design was a fireplace, concession counter and observation platform on the upper level- it offered an impressive view of Buffalo to the Canadian shore. A timber and stone structure replaced the original in 1938; this Casino structure remains in commission today.
Chestnut Ridge is noted for its winter activities with its sledding hills and cross-country ski trails (not groomed). There is plenty of snowmobile activity on the western end of the park. The casino is open year round with a fireplace and scenic overview.
Activities:
There are many great outdoor activities to experience in all seasons. There is an outdoor athletic sports field and family picnic grills. A little-known section of the park is the southwest portion, sometimes referred to as the “Shale Creek Preserve.” It is within this remote section that nature is at its finest, with its seemingly primitive wooded ravines and a most unique natural feature, the “Eternal Flame Falls.”
Summer
Wildlife opportunities include scenic driving, forest hiking, biking, and trail explorations. There are places for family and group picnicking, as well as great children's play areas. We also have 12 tennis courts and other various informal diamonds.
- Winter:
Winter sports enthusiasts and families can spice up the cold winter months with a variety of snow activities including tobogganing, sledding, tubing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing (ungroomed), hiking, and snowmobiling. Tobaggan chutes are operated from 10 AM- 4 PM on weekends and holidays, and on Fridays from 4 PM- 8 PM (weather permitting).
Notice
The County Of Erie has binding legal contracts with private vendors to provide food service to patrons at the following county park facilities:
Chestnut Ridge Park Casino
Elma Meadows Golf Club House
Grover Cleveland Golf Club House