All posts by New York State Parks

Historic Sites, Stewardship

Dutch Royalty Visit Schuyler Mansion, Talk Climate Change

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On June 12, New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation proudly hosted their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands; Minister of Foreign Trade Liesje Schreinemacher; Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the US Birgitta Tazelaar; Consul General of the Netherlands in New York Ahmed Dadou; and Cultural Attaché Monique Ruhe at Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site. The group visited as part of their U.S. tour celebrating cultural ties and reinforcing economic opportunities, and Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado helped us welcome them.

Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima and New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado are welcomed to Schuyler Mansion by Historic Site Manager Heidi Hill and Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. Photo by Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul.

As part of their visit to New York, their Royal Majesties visited with next-generation environmentalists to engage in conversations about the impacts of climate change and positive actions that could be taken, both here and in the Netherlands, to foster climate resiliency in communities.

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2024 Centennial Celebration, Camping, Family Fun, Fun & Games, Hiking, Historic Sites, Recreation

Summer Fun at State Parks and Historic Sites

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There’s nothing quite like a New York summer! It’s peak season at New York State Parks and Historic Sites. Camping is in full swing, whether it’s in one of our cabins, or in tents or RVs. The swimming season is underway at our beaches and pools. And if you’re looking to make the most of the season, we’ve got you covered. Our expert staff members have combed the state to suggest exciting summertime experiences for everyone. There’s bound to be something new for you on this list!

Listen to the Sounds of Summer

Performances at Artpark, left, and at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park.

Summer concerts are happening all season long, and there’s an affordable live music option for everyone. Enjoy the longer days and warmer nights with festivals and performances by world-famous musical artists at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park, Jones Beach Theater at the iconic Jones Beach in Wantagh, and Artpark in Lewiston, or boogie with your favorite local bands at a state park or historic site near you. All options offer the chance to relax and enjoy the show from a blanket or chair.

– Written by Gabriela Wemple, Excelsior Service Fellow

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Family Fun, Park Personnel, safety

Calling all Junior Rangers!

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The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation recently introduced three new Junior Ranger Buddies to our parks and facilities. To start the conversation between children and their families about personal safety when exploring the outdoors, the New York State Park Ranger Program has welcomed “Finn” the Fox, “Bennie” the Beaver, and “Taylor” the Turtle to the ranks! Finn, Bennie, and Taylor each share an important message on how to stay safe when enjoying the parks.

Two New York State Park Rangers and two Junior Rangers coloring and talking safety!

Finn tells families that “Park Employees are Friends” and if a child needs help when in a park, that Park Rangers and other staff are there to help them. Bennie tells children to “Use the Buddy System,” as parks are much more fun when we are enjoying them with friends. Taylor reminds kids to “Share Your Plans” when adventuring outdoors and to tell a trusted adult where they plan on going, and if plans change.

By listening to these tips from their Junior Ranger Buddies, families can facilitate effective communication about safety and where to find a trusted adult if they need help.

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Recreation

State Golf Courses Are In The Swing

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When you think of golf and New York State Parks, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Bethpage Black. It was well known on Long Island for decades but rose to prominence worldwide when the USGA brought its signature tournament, the U.S. Open, to “the people’s country club” 22 years ago.

The most photogenic golf course sign in the United States!

A fellow you may have heard of, Tiger Woods, was victorious that year when he was at the peak of his powers – his eighth Major victory (he currently has 15). He and the U.S. Open came back to Bethpage seven years later for a soggy slugfest that ended on a muddy Monday. It was a journeyman named Lucas Glover who held off Woods and the rest of the elite field, winning his one and only Major title. A decade later, Bethpage Black hosted another Major tournament, the PGA Championship, won by Brooks Koepka. And next year, 2025, it will host an event unlike anything ever experienced there – the 2025 Ryder Cup.

This sign will welcome the world to the Ryder Cup in 2025.

But this post isn’t about that much-anticipated international competition, although they are already preparing. This is about all the great golf opportunities State Parks has around New York.

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accessibility, Fun & Games, Recreation

Celebrating Get Outdoors & Get Together Day

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On Saturday, June 8, New York State Parks and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation celebrated Get Outdoors & Get Together Day at 22 locations across the state. This annual event coincides with National Get Outdoors Day and encourages people of all abilities to connect with public lands through outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, nature walks and hikes, birding, archery, camping, and paddling.

Get Outdoors & Get Together day is a partnership with host sites, the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services to promote inclusivity of access to recreational spaces by bringing people of all abilities, ages, identities, and backgrounds together for a day of fun, healthy activities.  

This year, more than 2,000 participants enjoyed the day at a New York State park or historic site! Activities included a magic show, a raptors and reptiles show, dancing, singing, spin art, yard games, and more! Let’s take a look at some of the action. 

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