“Haunted” Lighthouses and Hidden Parks Along Lake Ontario, Near Niagara

Lake Ontario isn’t just beautiful—it’s full of mystery and history. Along the shoreline, you’ll find lighthouses and state parks that are peaceful by day… but spooky at night.

Here are some of the best spots to visit if you love nature, legends, and maybe a ghost story or two.

Golden Hill State Park & Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse (Barker, NY)

This quiet park has a big stone lighthouse built in 1875. Some say a lighthouse keeper’s wife went mad one winter—and her ghost still walks the tower. Visitors report hearing footsteps when no one’s there.

Selkirk Shores State Park & Salmon River Lighthouse (Pulaski, NY)

Beautiful sunsets and great hiking—but near the old lighthouse, people have heard knocking from inside and seen a woman in old clothes near the water.

Sackets Harbor Battlefield (Sackets Harbor, NY)

A real battlefield from the War of 1812. Now a peaceful park, but some say they’ve heard marching boots and seen lights over the lake at night.

Old Fort Niagara & Lighthouse (Youngstown, NY)

Right where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. One of the most haunted forts in America. People have seen ghost soldiers, and the lighthouse light sometimes shines—even though it’s no longer in use.

Want to Visit?

These parks are open to the public and perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. You can hike, camp, and explore—just keep an eye out for anything… strange.

The Niagara Region and Lake Ontario is full of stories. Some are about history. Some are about ghosts. All of them are waiting for you.