School’s out, the temperature is rising, and everyone’s thoughts are turning to summer getaways. If you’re looking for a new place to spend an afternoon, a weekend, or longer and not break the bank doing it, you’ve come to the right place. We asked our Fun Experts to take you on a tour of some of the lesser-known, hidden-gem spots in our system, and they delivered: fascinating history, peaceful lakeside oases, and camping away from the crowds. Let’s go!
Continue reading Road Trip to These Hidden-Gem Parks and Historic SitesCategory Archives: Fun & Games
Celebrating Community and Inclusivity at Get Outdoors and Get Together Day
Get Outdoors and Get Together Day 2025 is in the books! On the second Saturday of June each year, select state parks and public lands hold Get Outdoors and Get Together Day to bring outdoor recreation to people with disabilities, and to encourage the entire community to spend a day together in the outdoors. Visitors enjoyed music, crafts, and educational programs, and tried out adaptive recreational equipment.
Hidden Connections: Roberto Clemente, Jackie Robinson and State Parks
Like the first birdsong, the start of Major League Baseball is a sign of spring.
Baseball fans celebrate the start of the season every year, but there are two other “baseball holidays” circled on the calendar of fans everywhere at opposite ends the season: Jackie Robinson Day on April 15, and Roberto Clemente Day on September 15. Did you know that New York State Parks has connections to both?
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Take On The Wellness Challenge In 2025
In today’s fast-paced digital world, where screens often dominate our daily lives, many are seeking refuge in nature to rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit. To inspire those looking to focus on their wellness, or just looking for fun activities to partake in, we’ve created the New York State Parks Wellness Challenge.
This program supports Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative and calls for individuals and families to step away from their devices and immerse themselves in New York State’s natural beauty and expansive opportunities. The Wellness Challenge is more than just a call to explore. It’s an invitation to embrace a holistic approach to wellness in a setting that promotes mental clarity, physical vitality, and social connectivity.
On Your Mark… Get Set… Parks!
A typical first experience visiting a New York state park might include swimming, camping, hiking, fishing, picnicking, volunteering, or maybe hands-on learning with an environmental educator. But for some high schoolers, their initial introduction to state parks comes from the thrill of running a cross-country race held at our parks throughout the year.
Every cross-country course is unique and can vary in length and terrain. The courses at our state parks are no different. Some pass through flat grassy fields or golf courses, while others traverse steep wooded trails. Our state parks provide their own scenic backdrop and have continued to welcome many high school competitors in annual races coordinated by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) as well as other organizations.
Continue reading On Your Mark… Get Set… Parks!
New York State Parks and Historic Sites Blog 