Across New York State, visitors took time during the summer to cherish the lands they love by attending events honoring the system’s Centennial. Our parks and historic sites held numerous activities celebrating the 100-year anniversary , which ranged from community commemorations and canalside concerts to kayak parties and other festivities. This sampling demonstrates the breadth of unique experiences available to visitors, with more to come as we approach the final months of 2024!
Continue reading A Summer of Centennial CelebrationsCategory Archives: Family Fun
We’ll See You Out There… at the State Fair!
It wouldn’t be the end of the summer season without a trip to The Great New York State Fair! From live concerts and a trip on a ferris wheel, to twenty-five cent milk at the Dairy Barn and the sand sculpture, the State Fair is full of family-friendly experiences. And this year will be extra special for State Parks!
Did you know that New York’s smallest state park can be found within the State Fair? It’s true! You can find the State Park at the Fair right behind Chevy Court on Niagara Street, where we have a Visitor Center, gift shop, mini-golf course, reflecting pool, and many unique attractions that give you a taste for all we do at State Parks. You’ll have the opportunity to meet environmental educators, costumed historical interpreters, State Park Police and Park Rangers, as well as learn about marine safety, snowmobiling, and the popular Hawke Creek Rehabilitation Center Birds of Prey show. But that’s not all.
In honor of our Centennial, we’re commemorating Thursday, August 22 as State Parks Day at the Fair by waiving admission for fairgoers who present one of the following passes at the entrance that day: Empire Pass, Access Pass, Lifetime Liberty Pass, and Golden Park Program (people 65 years old and older are admitted free every day of the Fair). We’ll also have a staff videographer on-hand that day to help film your stories for the Share Your Story project that you can learn more about below!
Can’t make it for State Parks Day? Here’s a quick peek at how you can celebrate with us from Wednesday, August 21 through Monday, September 2.
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Camping 101: A Guide to Getting Out There
New to camping or haven’t gone since you were a kid? Thinking about how to prepare for or what to expect during an overnight trip might be overwhelming, and we get it! Used to creature comforts at home, trying something new or unpredictable always feels intimidating.
But what if, with a little help, what seems challenging turned out to be calming and therapeutic, refreshing and well worth it? Studies show that spending time outdoors and offline fosters positive mental health, improves resiliency, and relieves depression, anxiety and stress, particularly among our young people.
Here at New York State Parks, we firmly believe in the benefits of the outdoors, and we don’t want nervousness or confusion to stand in the way of you and your loved ones having an incredible camping experience. That’s why we’ve done the work for you. In this post, we’ll shell out some rock-solid guidance on:
- what to pack (including an updated version of our checklist!)
- campground etiquette
- fun and easy recipes to try
- the differences between Parks and DEC campgrounds
Camping is an affordable way to enjoy nature in new ways. Here’s hoping we’ll #SeeYouOutThere.
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Summer Fun at State Parks and Historic Sites
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
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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Calling all Junior Rangers!
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.
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.
Continue reading Calling all Junior Rangers!
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