Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Address
87 Nature Center Way
Voorheesville, NY 12186
87 Nature Center Way
Voorheesville, NY 12186
Latitude 42.655132
Longitude -74.042389
- General Information: (518) 872-0800
Donate
The Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center opened in July 2001 and is located in Thompson's Lake Campground at Thacher State Park. The center offers year-round educational programs for school groups, youth organizations, clubs and the general public. Exhibits and displays include a geologic model of the Helderberg Escarpment, a live honeybee observation hive, bird viewing area, fossils, furs and other hands-on collections. Trails for hiking and skiing lead from the nature center to the lake, through woodlands and fields.
Please note fishing is prohibited at the Emma Treadwell Nature Center
Learn more, watch WMHT Specials | The Great Ledge: Exploring Thacher | WMHT
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Hours of Operation
- Nature Center is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00am - 4:00pmSnowshoe rentals by appointment only
Fees & Rates
- Snowshoe Rentals
$10.00 all day
$5.00 four hours or less
Program Descriptions
Incredible
Insects (April-September)
Butterflies, bees, and all kinds of bugs are an important part
of nature. Discover what makes them special, and what you can do to support
biodiversity in your backyard. Then, take to the fields and forest to see
how many insects you can find.
Awesome Aquatics (April-September)
Discover the different parts of a habitat, and what animals need
to thrive. Then, borrow nets and see how many lake creatures you can catch!
Dress for wading.
Indian Ladder Trail Tour (June-October)
Descend through the entrance of the Indian Ladder Trail to view
the amazing rock formations, and the forces that shaped them. This one mile
hike offers spectacular views of the valley and mountains north and east.
Hibernation Investigation (November-March)
Explore mammal skulls and skins to learn about the many
adaptations that help them survive in their habitat. Then, take to the trails
to search for signs of wildlife. The hike will be lead on snowshoes, weather
permitting.
Snowshoeing (January-March)
We'll strap on snowshoes and take an invigorating walk on the
trails or in your schoolyard. Learn to look for evidence of animal life while
you take in the quiet beauty of winter. Warm, waterproof footwear, and
snowpants recommended.
Animal Superpowers (All Year)
Meet some of our animal ambassadors and discover the adaptations
that help them thrive in their habitat. Then, take a hike to search for some of
the amazing plants and animals that call the park home.
Fun With Fossils (All Year)
400 million years ago, New York was submerged under a tropical
sea! Explore the geological history of the park, and examine fossils of ancient
sea creatures.
The Connect-Kids-to-Parks Grant Program is designed to connect students in New
York State with nature and history. Each grant can provide reimbursement for
field trips to state and federal parks, forests, historic sites, fish
hatcheries, and outdoor recreation areas for districts with at least one Title
1 school.
Additional programs can be designed to meet your group's
specific interests. To schedule a field trip or outreach program in your
classroom, please call 518-872-0800 or email ThacherEducation@parks.ny.gov.
Sat
12
Jul
Saturday, July 12, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Meet at the Visitor Center
Discover Thacher Park's unique geology with limestone layers, resurging
streams, and a sinkhole! Participants will follow the group leader in their own
vehicles as we caravan to different sites. Ages 16+. Registration encouraged.
Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat
12
Jul
Saturday, July 12, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center
Accessible program. Drop in anytime between 1:30-3:00pm to view fossils and
discuss local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Sat
12
Jul
Saturday, July 12, 2025 08:30 PM - 09:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Meet at the Nature Center, After dark a whole community of
often overlooked insects become active. Join us as we observe gorgeous moths,
luminous fireflies, and appreciate the songs of the creatures of the night.
Flashlights are recommended and be prepared for mosquitoes. Registration
required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu
17
Jul
Thursday, July 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800 to register.
Registration: Required
Thu
17
Jul
Thursday, July 17, 2025 03:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800
Meet at the Thacher Nature Center. Join us to celebrate the 24th
anniversary of the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center! Learn about the life
of Fred Schroeder and the history of the Albany Boy's Club at Thacher Park.
Then, catch and meet the incredible critters that live in Thompson's Lake up
close... as generations before us have! Great for adults and children alike.
Registration required. Call 518-872-0800 to register.
Registration: Required