A picturesque subject for photographers, artists and stamp makers, the Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse is also the centerpiece of Golden Hill State Park. Joining New York State's park system in 1962, thoughts of a state park and land purchases began a decade earlier. Found in a more remote section of the state, this Lake Ontario shoreline park is located near the town of Somerset. Picnic pavilions, playground, nature trails, a boat launch area and campground are offered here at the park.
     The lighthouse, located 30 miles from the Niagara River, is wonderfully captured here on a bright winter's day. Built of limestone in 1875, the solid square tower supported a third-order Fresnel lens. Outliving its usefulness as a navigational beacon in this modern era of GPS guidance, the lighthouse was finally turned over to the state in 1984. Friends of Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse and park staff keep the lighthouse and grounds in excellent condition. Doubling as a museum and guest cottage, the lighthouse continues to be a popular historic landmark. The entire second floor is devoted to weekly guests and features a private entrance, fully furnished accommodations, and fantastic lakeside views.