On August 29, 1779 the tranquility of the area was broken by the eruption of gunfire and the beginning of what was known as the Battle of Newtown.  A granite monument was built in 1912 and in the same year the site became a state park.  Many of the structures in the park were built by crews of the CCC in the 1930's.  In 1973 the park was designated as a historic landmark and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In 2010 this state park was designated to be closed by former governor David Patterson to reduce the growing state budget deficit, however the park did open and remains open seasonally.  The park has a small campground and nearly eight miles of hiking trails available to explore.  A replica Indian Village is popular to explore as visitors can go inside each of the cabins.  This is the old Indian village that was once called New Town.

Look below for some pictures, a video and a trail map of this state park.  The park is located near Elmira, just off NY 17/I-86.  You can find directions here.  The state park website also features a trail map.

NOTE: A major storm hit the park and downed many trees in May 2011.  The park employees removed the trees from roads, trails, however you can see the destruction the storm left in the forest.

Monument at Newtown Battlefield State Park

You'll find signs at trail intersections

Replica Native American Village

Campsite 13 at Newtown Battlefield State Park

Newtown Battlefield Trail Map