Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

November 14, 2016

State Parks Press Office:
Randy Simons | Dan Keefe
(518) 486-1868 | news@parks.ny.gov

Construction Begins on $2.9 Million ‘Cottages at Sampson’

Alternative to traditional State Park camping experience provides hub to explore Finger Lakes destinations

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today announced construction has begun on a $2.9 million project to build "The Cottages at Sampson" - 10 new vacation cottages that will provide high quality, affordable lakefront accommodations on the shore of Seneca Lake. Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul joined state representatives and park officials today to unveil designs on the new cottages.

"These cottages will provide visitors an alternative to traditional camping in State Parks," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, who unveiled the new cottage designs on Monday morning. "The high quality overnight lodging will provide visitors with a hub to visit the region's wineries, gorges, racetracks, casinos and cultural destinations, and help to continue to grow Finger Lakes tourism economy."

The modern rustic Cottages at Sampson will feature both one- and two-bedroom units, as well as a bathroom, kitchenette, covered outdoor deck and comfortable furnishings and lighting. The cottages will be on a slope overlooking Seneca Lake, where visitors will be able to enjoy dramatic sunset views. Construction is expected to be complete next fall, and the cottages will be available for rental from May thru October each year. Rates will range from between $150 and $275 per night for either one or two bedroom units depending on the season.

"The new cottages are among many new improvements taking place across the New York State Park system - thanks to Governor Cuomo's leadership," State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said. "The cottages will dramatically enhance Sampson State Park's appeal to vacationers looking to experience all that New York's Finger Lakes Region has to offer."

Senator Michael Nozzolio said, "The Finger Lakes Region has become a thriving tourism destination, attracting visitors from all over the United States and beyond. The addition of high quality and affordable vacation cottages will attract even more people to our area and will be a great boon for our local economy. I would like to thank Governor Cuomo and State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey for their leadership on this project and I look forward to seeing the cottages once they are completed."

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R-C, Canandaigua) said, "This is an important investment in Sampson State Park that expands recreational opportunities for visitors of the Finger Lakes. As those of us who live here know - this region is unmatched for the beauty of its natural landscape and attractions. The Cottages at Sampson will enhance experiences for Finger Lakes visitors and help bolster the highly successful tourism industry in the area."

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano said, "I would like to thank Governor Cuomo and Commissioner Harvey for this important investment in Sampson State Park. Critical allocations like this one improve the quality of life for our residents by making it easier for them to access our wonderful state parks. In addition, projects like this one provide a welcome spark for area tourism. This is another great way to attract new visitors who will enjoy our thriving craft beverage industry. The Finger Lakes and Southern Tier Region is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the entire world, and we're doing everything we can to ensure travelers choose us as a destination."

The $2.9 million project was funded by Governor Cuomo's NY Parks 2020 initiative. NY Parks 2020 is a multi-year commitment to leverage $900 million in private and public funding for State Parks from 2011 to 2020. The 2016-17 state budget includes $90 million toward this initiative.

Encompassing just over 2000 acres on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, Sampson State Park features camping and boating as the primary recreational activities. The park has a total of 309 campsites with 245 electric and 64 non-electric sites. The marina has just over 100 boat slips and a large multiple launch site. Activities include tennis, horseshoes, basketball and volleyball, a sandy swimming beach, playgrounds, and a scenic lake trail.

For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.

• Additional Documents
• Sampson Cottage (jpg)