USA New Croton Dam in Croton Gorge Park, NY

The New Croton Dam is a large masonry dam located within Croton Gorge Park in Westchester County, New York. When water is flowing over the spillway, it creates a wide, continuous waterfall that drops into the Croton River below, offering a strong combination of architectural structure and moving water.

Several viewpoints are available, including elevated overlooks above the dam, side angles along the gorge, and lower river-level perspectives that emphasize scale and symmetry. Stonework details, arches, stairways, and the surrounding forest provide additional compositional elements.

Water flow varies based on reservoir levels and seasonal releases, which can significantly affect the appearance of the waterfall. The area is easily accessible by maintained trails and is suitable for landscape, long-exposure, and architectural photography.

If there is snow on the ground, especially large amounts, wear good footwear (boots) and clothing as the park outside of the parking area and road are not cleared of snow. No drones are allowed here and no commercial photography.

Best Time of Day
Morning to early afternoon is generally best.
• The dam faces roughly east / southeast, so morning light provides even illumination on the spillway and stonework without harsh contrast.
• By midday, light is more overhead, which works well for emphasizing symmetry, texture, and long exposures if water is flowing.
• Late afternoon often puts parts of the dam in shadow, especially from the gorge walls and surrounding trees, reducing detail on the spillway.

Overcast conditions are excellent at any time of day, minimizing contrast and allowing for smoother long-exposure water shots.

**I plan to update this section when I go back at another time of the year**

During heavy snowfalls, the road into the park can be narrow making it hard for two cars to pass through going in opposite directions. Plenty of parking during off-season and parking is free during the winter months. While parking and road are paved, not much else is cleared of snow so come prepared to walk in snow to get to better spots.

**I plan to update this section when I go back at another time of the year**