Planning to visit Niagara Falls in the near future, or just interested in its fascinating history? Then you’ve come to the right place! Our Campground is located next to Niagara Falls, so we fully understand the world’s obsession with this remarkable natural landmark that borders two countries – the US and Canada.
Our Favorite Facts About Niagara Falls
#1. Niagara Falls is really three different falls combined into one.
The largest is the Horseshoe Falls, then there’s the American Falls, and the smallest is Bridal Veil Falls. The vertical height of Niagara Falls reaches over 176 feet at some parts. From such great heights, over 700,000 gallons of water fall from Niagara Falls during peak season in the summer.
#2. Over twenty million people visit the incredible sight every single year, and for good reason – there’s nothing like it.
#3. Founded in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest start park in all America.
Niagara Falls is much older than the park. Its birth date can be traced back over 12,00 years ago, during the last glacial period.
#4. We don’t recommend it, but several people have traveled down the Falls in a barrel.
The first person to try it in 1901 was a 63-year-old daredevil/school teacher named Annie Edson Taylor. She survived the feat and expected to reap riches and fame from her stunt. Sadly, she passed away in poverty but is now buried at Oakwood Cemetery, which is located in Niagara Falls.
Ten years later, in July 1911, Bobby Leach hopped into a steal barrel and plunged down the falls. He ended up breaking his kneecaps and his jaw, but he survived.
The most recent daredevil to ascend down the Falls was Kirk Jones, from canton, Michigan. Kirk did not use a barrel, he went down in his plain clothes. He survived the fall and swam to shore. Unfortunately, he and his pals had been drinking before the stunt and they failed to get their video camera working properly so it went unrecorded. Also, rather unfortunately for Kirk, he was fined $2,300 and banned from ever entering Canada.
#5. It’s not the tallest waterfall in the world.
Despite what many people think, Niagara Falls isn’t the tallest. Instead, it earns its fame from its sheer beauty and the stunning amount of water that falls from so high up. The three waterfalls combined produce a higher flow rate than any other waterfall on the planet. So much water is produced that the average household would take 7.5 years to use the water that flows over every second.
#6. Fish go over Niagara Falls all the time.
While few people have survived a fall from Niagara, fish do it all the time. In fact, around 90% of fish survive the fall. That’s because they are equipped with the unique ability to flow with the water. Many people have been hit by free falling fish while touring the Cave of the Winds attraction.
#7. Niagara Falls produces a lot of energy.
Nearly one-quarter of the power used in New York State and Ontario is supplied via Niagara Falls. At night, the flow is reduced, and water is funneled into intakes for power generation. Approximately 50 to 75 percent of the water is diverted from flowing over the falls and is used for hydroelectric power generating stations. Less water is diverted in the summer so that peak season visitors get the best views.
#8. Look for the oldest US flag
Displayed at Old Fort Niagara, you can see the oldest surviving US flag. The flag has quite a history – it was captured by the British during the War of 1812.
#9. Niagara Falls is one of the most popular destinations for honeymooners in the world.
#10. The Cave of the Winds attraction is torn down and rebuilt every single year.
Planning to visit Niagara Falls?
We welcome you to stay at Camp Ark! We have RV sites, tent camping, and cabins for rent. Located in close proximity to the Falls, our campground offers a home away from home. Learn more