Category Archives: Fun & Games

Fun & Games, Park Personnel, Park Projects

Helping the Next Generation Foster Lifelong Relationships with the Outdoors

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Created in partnership with the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation in 2021, New York State Parks’ Ladders to the Outdoors program launched with a goal to have children from underserved communities experience the outdoors at state parks in Erie and Niagara counties. Building upon the success of the Connect Kids to Parks program, which reimburses transportation costs for field trips, Ladders to the Outdoors staff members work closely with teachers and community leaders to plan visits and provide the equipment needed to create successful experiences.

Since the program’s inception, organizers have taken kids out on trail walks, fishing trips, bike rides, and to visit the New York State Fair. The program’s core mission “to connect kids to their New York State parks and historical sites, outdoor recreation, nature, and foster a lifelong love of the outdoors” remains the same today as it did at the outset, but now also features some welcome and expanded ambitions.

A group sporting Ladders to the Outdoors backpacks explores the New York State Fair.
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2024 Centennial Celebration, Family Fun, Fun & Games, Visitor Gratitude

We’ll See You Out There… at the State Fair! 

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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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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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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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Flora & Fauna, Fun & Games

Guess That Mysterious Wildlife Sound!

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Throughout the fall season, you’ve maybe found yourself outside at some point — around a cozy campfire or on a trail enjoying the beautiful autumn foliage — and heard a sound you didn’t quite recognize. Perhaps the sun was down, and you were startled?

If you’re thinking back on your fall adventures and this feels a little familiar, you wouldn’t be alone. There are so many different noises when you’re out in nature, and sometimes it’s hard to keep track of them all. With this article, we hope to demystify some of these sounds and show you they’re more interesting than unnerving!

Slowly scroll below to discover the thrilling world of five New York native animals that are often associated with autumn. Can you guess who each sound belongs to?

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