Rolling Hills Asylum – Haunted Mental Institution in East Bethany, New York

Nestled in the quiet countryside of East Bethany, Rolling Hills Asylum has become one of the most chilling paranormal hotspots in New York. Once a place meant to shelter society’s outcasts, it now draws ghost hunters and thrill-seekers from across the country.

With a grim history of tragedy, death, and isolation, the asylum’s decaying halls are said to echo with the cries of the forgotten—making it a must-visit for anyone chasing the supernatural.

Historical Background

• Year Built: 1827
• Original Purpose: Poorhouse and later an asylum for the mentally ill
• Significant Events:
  Rolling Hills began as the Genesee County Poor Farm—a refuge for the destitute, mentally ill, orphans, and criminals. Over the years, it housed thousands, many of whom died under grim circumstances. Records estimate over 1,700 deaths occurred on the property. Bodies were often buried in unmarked graves. Tales of abuse, inhumane treatment, and medical experimentation linger in its history, contributing to its haunting reputation.

Paranormal Activity Summary

Visitors frequently report disembodied voices, cold drafts, and shadow figures darting through the hallways. Sudden drops in temperature, objects moving on their own, and doors slamming are common experiences. Some even report hearing screams from rooms that are long abandoned.

One of the most terrifying presences is “Shadow Man”—a towering, black mass often seen lurking near the old morgue. Others report sightings of a little girl with hollow eyes and a spirit named “Roy,” a gentle giant of a man who died in the asylum.

Ghost Stories & Reports

The spirits of Rolling Hills seem to reflect its tragic past. Roy, who suffered from gigantism, is said to still roam the halls. Visitors claim to hear his deep footsteps and feel a calming presence when he’s near. Another ghost, a nurse named Emmie, is rumored to appear in the corridors with a stern look—perhaps still tending to her long-forgotten patients.

One of the eeriest tales involves the screams of a former patient locked in solitary confinement, who allegedly died from neglect. Guests often hear loud banging and moans coming from the old isolation rooms.

Local folklore speaks of a “demon hallway” on the second floor, where electronic devices fail and guests report an overwhelming sense of dread.

Most Haunted Spot Inside

The Morgue is widely considered the most haunted area. Paranormal activity spikes here—voices whisper your name, gurneys roll on their own, and strange mists appear in photos. It’s a favorite among ghost hunters for good reason.

Can You Visit?

• Open to the Public? Yes
• Entry Fee: Varies by tour type, starting around $25
• Tour Availability: Guided historical and overnight paranormal tours available year-round
• Photography Allowed? Yes
• Visiting Hours? By appointment or tour reservation only

Best Time to Visit

Autumn and winter are peak times for ghost sightings. The colder months are said to stir up more activity—perhaps a result of the long, dark nights.

Paranormal Investigations & Findings

Rolling Hills Asylum has been featured on shows like Ghost Adventures, Paranormal Challenge, and Ghost Hunters. Multiple EVPs, thermal imaging captures, and unexplained readings have cemented its status as a true paranormal playground. Investigators often return with chilling evidence, including captured whispers and shadow figures.

Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions

The building is aging and partially decayed, so guests must stay with their group during tours. Unauthorized access is prohibited. Some rooms have restricted entry due to safety concerns, including collapsing floors and unstable staircases.

Cursed or Haunted Objects

Within the asylum, several items are believed to carry spiritual energy. One such object is a rusted wheelchair that reportedly moves on its own. Guests claim it has rolled across the floor with no one near it—an eerie reminder that some residents may never have truly left.