The park has unique plant and animal life including endangered species. The Ovate Amber Snail lives only under the rocks found in and around the falls. It is found nowhere else in the world. Also the very rare and environment-sensitive Hart's Tongue Fern and the succulent Roseroot can be found growing on the gorge walls. Both species are very rare and are found only in damp, rocky environments like the areas immediately surrounding the falls. It's very important not to remove any plants or animals from this park. It's critical that you do not cross the barriers at the base of the falls to get closer to it. Since the endangered snails live underneath the rocks, simply stepping on the rocks, can crush several of them.

Chittenango Falls could be considered a staircase cascade, with its nearly even drops, one after another down Onondaga Limestone. The number and height of the drops, sends water flying into the air. In the creek below, the water then twists and turns around rocks and small outcroppings of plants and grasses. The creek below is dotted with large boulders and downed trees, while a few trails shoot off into the surrounding woods. There's much to explore here, but we found no additional waterfalls within the park boundaries. Looking at topographic maps, I'm sure there is more to Chittenango creek than what's in the park.

Helen Fairchild formed the Chittenango Falls Park Association, which managed the privately owned park from 1887 through 1922, when she handed over control to the state. Since then the state has increased those original 40 acres to 194.

The park once featured a campground, but due to budget issues, it has been closed.