Category Archives: Hiking

Family Fun, Hiking, State History

Sojourner Truth Day: Community Food Drive Celebrates Trailblazing Park Namesake

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Named in honor of the life and legacy of the 19th-century African American abolitionist and suffragist, Sojourner Truth State Park in the Hudson Valley is one of the newest acquisitions to the New York state park and historic site system. First announced in 2022, the park reclaims more than 500 acres of Hudson River shoreline land shared by the City of Kingston and the Town of Ulster. It opened to the public the following year.

Sojourner Truth was born Isabella Baumfree (also known as Bomefree) in 1797, enslaved among Dutch people in Ulster County. A dynamic human rights advocate, she “walked away by day-light,” freeing herself from slavery one year before legal enslavement ended in New York. Her accomplishments and vital contributions to American history are recognized not only with the park’s naming, but also with the installation of a bronze statue at Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, created by sculptor Vinnie Bagwell.

Governor Hochul designated November 26 as Sojourner Truth Day in New York State last year, and we can’t wait to share our plans to celebrate this trailblazing New Yorker with you.  

Sojourner Truth, born Isabella Baumfree in 1797, was an Ulster County native and a leader in the abolition and suffrage movements. This bronze statue of her can be found at Walkway Over the Hudson State Park. In 2022, a new park named in her honor was announced. The park is celebrating its first Sojourner Truth Day on Nov. 22.
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Family Fun, Hiking, Historic Sites, Recreation, Wellness

Autumn in New York (State Parks and Historic Sites)

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Short and sunny days, crunchy leaves, honking geese, the strong desire for pumpkin spice: it must be fall! Temperatures are just right for hiking, biking and outdoor adventure. It’s a time of year that sparks inspiration, curiosity and wonder. Our parks and historic sites are here to help you make the most of it! Read on for ideas on how to have the best fall ever.

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Family Fun, Flora & Fauna, Fun & Games, Hiking, State History

Celebrate the Empire State With the ‘Symbols of New York State’ Scavenger Hunt

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For millions of us, “I Love New York” is more than just a slogan. It’s a way of life. The state’s incredible natural beauty makes it easy to love. On your fall rambles, show off your state pride and take on the Symbols of New York State Scavenger Hunt. See how many of these state symbols you can find!

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Camping, Family Fun, Fun & Games, Hiking, Historic Sites, Recreation

Road Trip to These Hidden-Gem Parks and Historic Sites

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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!

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Camping, Family Fun, Hiking, Recreation, safety

Know Before You Go: Tips For Safe, Fun Outdoor Summer Recreation

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There are countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors at New York State Parks. Whether camping, boating, fishing, or exploring our trails, we all share the responsibility to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. We’ve assembled a list of tips and tricks for the next time you’re connecting with nature at one of our facilities, but they all boil down to a few simple concepts: stay aware of your surroundings, leave no trace, keep safety in mind, and follow the rules. 

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