Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

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Wed 05 Mar
Hudson Valley Violets
Wednesday, March 5, 2025 until Wednesday, March 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Did you know that the Hudson Valley was once regarded as the violet capital of the world? In this program, visitors will learn about the history of the violet industry in the Hudson Valley from Clermont's own Horticulturalist, then we'll candy a violet grown by a local farm to see (and taste!) for ourselves! Please note: Registration is required for this event. Please register in advance at bookeo.com/clermont.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Drop-in Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, March 23, 2025 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center. All ages. Celebrate the first weekend of spring by stopping by between 9am and 3pm to pick up a Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt. Note: trails are often muddy in the spring; dress for the weather. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Drop-in Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, March 23, 2025 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. All ages. Celebrate the first weekend of spring by stopping by between 9am and 3pm to pick up a Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt. Note: trails are often muddy in the spring; dress for the weather. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Drop-in Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, March 23, 2025 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. All ages. Celebrate the first weekend of spring by stopping by between 9am and 3pm to pick up a Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt. Note: trails are often muddy in the spring; dress for the weather. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Hike: An Orchard, a Cliff Edge View and an Echo at Minnewaska
Sunday, March 23, 2025 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an early spring hike through an historic orchard that once served the grand hotels found at Minnewaska. Planted on a steep hill, the view from the top of the orchard is gorgeous. Continuing along our route, we'll pass through a former hotel golf course to make our way over to Castle Point Carriage Road, which we'll walk until we reach Kempton Ledge. From here, there are wide open views of the Palmaghatt Ravine and Storm King and Breakneck mountains in the distance. Next, we'll make our way down to Hamilton Point Carriage Road, which we'll follow until we reach Echo Rock, another scenic viewpoint where you can actually hear the echo of your own voice. To return, we'll follow Hamilton Point, Millbrook Mountain and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads, swinging back on the opposite side of the Lake to reach the Visitor Center. This walk is mostly along easy-going carriage roads, with an estimated total distance of six-and-a-half miles. Please bring water and food and dress appropriately for the season. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Little Stony Point Citizens Association Presents: Maple Syrup Day
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve
Come join LSPCA for free pancakes, local maple syrup, coffee, hot cocoa, live music and fun for all. If available please walk, bike, train or carpool. Rain date: March 30, 10-1pm.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
NYS Maple Weekends
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
Continual demonstrations of maple sugaring techniques and hourly walks. Pancake breakfasts available for purchase from 10:00am-1:00pm, courtesy of the Friends of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
NYS Maple Weekends
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
Continual demonstrations of maple sugaring techniques and hourly walks. Pancake breakfasts available for purchase from 10:00am-1:00pm, courtesy of the Friends of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Weir Tour
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave. (Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk/parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=284.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Pine Swamp Hike
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Lake Skannatati parking area in Harriman State Park This hike starts with a walk through open woodlands along the shores of Lake Skannatati, then crosses Pine Swamp Brook. We will reach Pine Swamp, home to pitcher plants, sundews, beavers, and historic mines. The path then bends around the shoulder of Pine Swamp Mountain and descends through open forest. Hiking boots are a must. Moderate difficulty, 3.15 miles. Not suitable for children under 12. Registration is required, Registration through Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pine-swamp-loop-hike-tickets-1269659649189?aff=oddtdtcreator
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Spring Gorge Stroll
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Devil's Hole State Park
Take a leisurely stroll along trail 2 with an educator and learn more about the signs of spring! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Cozy Crafts at Lake Minnewaska Nature Center
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Bring your family and join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, to make spring crafts at the Lake Minnewaska Nature Center. We'll have the supplies and inspiration to make embroidered decorative ornaments from recycled cardboard, and nature journals and zines from paper. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Nature Center. This program is recommended for children over the age of seven, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18 This is a drop-in program. Pre-registration is NOT required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, March 23, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Yoga is back! Ring in a healthier new year with our Morning Hatha Yoga class, Sundays at 10:30 AM. The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Fee is $18/class, registration available at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Mineral Springs Tour
Sunday, March 23, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Fly Tying
Sunday, March 23, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

This fly-tying class teaches participants how to tie two essential trout flies: the Woolly Bugger, a versatile streamer imitating baitfish and leeches, and the Pheasant Tail Nymph, a classic mayfly imitation. The class also highlights the importance of entomology in fly-tying, helping anglers match their flies to the natural insect life cycle for better fishing success. This class is designed for ages 13+. We have a limit of 5 people who can bring their handmade fly home to ensure we have enough, those who make their own will be charged $5 for materials. If you sign up after our 5-person limit you will be able to come and watch. Register in advance by calling our office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Fly Tying
Sunday, March 23, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

This fly-tying class teaches participants how to tie two essential trout flies: the Woolly Bugger, a versatile streamer imitating baitfish and leeches, and the Pheasant Tail Nymph, a classic mayfly imitation. The class also highlights the importance of entomology in fly-tying, helping anglers match their flies to the natural insect life cycle for better fishing success. This class is designed for ages 13+. We have a limit of 5 people who can bring their handmade fly home to ensure we have enough, those who make their own will be charged $5 for materials. If you sign up after our 5-person limit you will be able to come and watch. Register in advance by calling our office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Tiny Terrariums
Sunday, March 23, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
Learn about our local habitats and make a tiny landscape of a slice of Long island! Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Beginner Map and Compass Course
Sunday, March 23, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
(518) 584-2000

If you've ever been hiking and wondered how to use a map and compass to successfully navigate through the woods, this program is for you. Spend a few minutes getting to know your map and compass, review some basic hiking essentials, and spend an hour on a super-vised navigation course in a wooded area. Age appropriate for 16+. Space is limited and registration is required. Please call the Park Office at (518) 584-2000 to register.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor
Sunday, March 23, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 16+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor
Sunday, March 23, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 16+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor
Sunday, March 23, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 16+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Mar
Alice as Artist
Sunday, March 23, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
In 1928, Alice D.C. Livingston submitted a smattering of sculptures to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts' annual exhibition. Included was an enigmatic bronze depicting a draped female figure, hands held aloft in exaltation or prayer. Recent research has uncovered a review featuring this bronze figure in a 1928 edition of Revue du Vrai et du Beau. Although relatively short, this is the only published piece we have been able to find on Alice's work and her exhibition history as an artist. In celebration of women's history month, join us for a presentation featuring this newly unearthed primary source as well as a broader discussion on the art Alice produced as a self-taught sculptor. Please note: This event is free of charge. Reservations are not required but appreciated.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Celebrate Women’s History Month With The General’s Lady at Washington’s Headquarters
Sunday, March 23, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
In honor of Women's History Month, Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site will hold its annual program, The General's Lady, Sunday, March 23rd at 2:00 PM. Inspired by Martha Washington, this event pays tribute to both the impact of noteworthy historical women and to contemporary women making a difference in the field of history and preservation in the Hudson Valley. Join historian and author Carole Owens for a one-hour program, "Martha Washington's Contemporaries: Women of the Eighteenth Century". Owens will reveal what life was like for American women during the period leading into and during the Revolutionary War by telling the stories of a few everyday women whose lives were changed by the events of history. Like Martha Washington, they balanced caring for their families, dealing with the hardships of war, and embodying the ideals that the burgeoning nation was being founded on. Their stories might not be as well known as Martha's, but their contributions to the founding of our great nation are just as remarkable. For more information, call 845-562-1195.
Registration: Not required
Sun 23 Mar
Talk and Discussion
Sunday, March 23, 2025 03:30 PM - 05:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
There will be a scientist-led talk and discussion of grassland bird research and conservation conducted on lands adjacent to the John Brown Farm Historic Site on March 23, from 3:30-5pm. Senior Research Scientist Michale Glennon will discuss a multi-year project conducted by the Adirondack Watershed Institute of Paul Smiths College. A short reception will follow.
Registration: Not required
Mon 24 Mar
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Monday, March 24, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents! Join an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society on a bird walk around the Preserve. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Mon 24 Mar
Little Explorers - CLOUDS
Monday, March 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Point Au Roche State Park
Join a park naturalist for our nature-themed story and playtime for ages 0-5! Come explore with stories, songs, and art projects from 10-10:30, then stay for some outdoor playtime! This time of year, it starts to feel like we never see the sun. Let's learn about the clouds who have been stealing the show!
Registration: Not required
Mon 24 Mar
KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS: Enchanted Spring
Monday, March 24, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
(585) 493-3600

A program for children ages 3-6 about spring. Space is limited, registration required by calling 585-493-3680. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Required
Mon 24 Mar
KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS: Enchanted Spring
Monday, March 24, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Letchworth State Park
(585) 493-3600

A program for children ages 3-6 about spring. Space is limited, registration required by calling 585-493-3680. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Mar
Tot Time
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather permitting. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Mar
Tot Time
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather permitting. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Mar
Drop-in Play Time
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible. For children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. The Nature Center offers many self-guided opportunities for little hands to explore! We are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 25 Mar
Tuesday Trek: Patterson’s Pellet to Kempton Ledge and back through the Meadows at Minnewaska
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an approximately five-mile hike on five historic carriage roads and a footpath. Starting from the Visitor Center, we'll head east around Lake Minnewaska, stopping to enjoy the multitude of scenic views along the way. When we reach Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road, we'll walk this route until we reach the iconic, glacially transported boulder named Patterson's Pellet. From this cliff-edge vista, on a clear day, we'll be able to see the stone tower at High Point State Park in New Jersey. Then, we'll walk back to reach the connector between Hamilton Point and Castle Point Carriage Roads. Continuing south along Castle Point Carriage Road, we'll walk until we reach Kempton's Ledge, which features views back across the Palmaghatt Ravine towards Patterson's Pellet. We'll return via the footpaths through the Meadows, an area that once served as a golf course and orchard for the Lake Minnewaska Resort hotels. If conditions are icy, participants are encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices and to dress appropriately for the cold. If ski trails are being groomed, this outing location will change. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Mar
Spring Overlook Hike
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join an educator on our newer trail up to Spring Overlook. This is a moderate-hard 2.5 mile loop hike with elevation gain/loss of 600 feet. Please wear the appropriate attire for the weather with water-resistant hiking shoes, sunscreen, and trekking poles if you need them. Bring plenty of water, snacks and a lunch that we can eat at the overlook. We will meet at the park office and caravan to the trailhead. This is a free hike and for people 13+. Please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Mar
Spring Overlook Hike
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join an educator on our newer trail up to Spring Overlook. This is a moderate-hard 2.5 mile loop hike with elevation gain/loss of 600 feet. Please wear the appropriate attire for the weather with water-resistant hiking shoes, sunscreen, and trekking poles if you need them. Bring plenty of water, snacks and a lunch that we can eat at the overlook. We will meet at the park office and caravan to the trailhead. This is a free hike and for people 13+. Please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Mar
Drop-in Play Time
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible. For children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. The Nature Center offers many self-guided opportunities for little hands to explore! We are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 25 Mar
Drop-in Play Time
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible. For children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. The Nature Center offers many self-guided opportunities for little hands to explore! We are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 25 Mar
Low Bridge: The Erie Canal in Saratoga County
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Enders House on Schoharie Street, Fort Hunter, NY 12069. Join us for this presentation, "Low Bridge: The Erie Canal in Saratoga County," given by John Scherer, Clifton Park Town Historian and Senior Historian Emeritus at the New York State Museum. Journey along the Erie Canal from Cohoes to Schenectady and witness historical and contemporary views of the canal and sites as well as canal life and "characters" along the way. Explore the Erie Canal remains of Clute's Dry Dock, Lock 19 and the Crescent and Rexford Aqueducts. The program will take place inside the Enders House, adjacent to the Visitor Center on Schoharie Street in Fort Hunter. It will be preceded by a short Friends of Schoharie Crossing meeting. Refreshments will be available. Free and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Wed 26 Mar
Eagle Watch
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join a park educator on a convoy-style journey along the Hudson River to try to spot our local Bald Eagles. We will be getting in and out of vehicles at a few locations and, with a little luck, viewing the eagles through binoculars so make sure to bring your hat and gloves! If you have binoculars bring them, we do have a couple of pair to pass around as well. This program is free and geared toward ages 13+. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Wed 26 Mar
Eagle Watch
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join a park educator on a convoy-style journey along the Hudson River to try to spot our local Bald Eagles. We will be getting in and out of vehicles at a few locations and, with a little luck, viewing the eagles through binoculars so make sure to bring your hat and gloves! If you have binoculars bring them, we do have a couple of pair to pass around as well. This program is free and geared toward ages 13+. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Wed 26 Mar
10,000 Steps Hike
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
(518) 810-6906

Get your steps in on this three mile hike through forests, fields and wetlands! Registration is required, please call or text (518) 810-6906 to register.
Registration: Required
Wed 26 Mar
Let's Bird Together!
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center. All ages. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Wed 26 Mar
Let's Bird Together!
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. All ages. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Wed 26 Mar
Let's Bird Together!
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. All ages. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Wed 26 Mar
Craft Night
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Enjoy an afternoon of watercolor crafts in the Welcome Center!
Registration: Not required
Wed 26 Mar
The Green Pages: Nature-focused Book Club
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
This month we will make book-themed crafts as we discuss The Overstory by Richard Powers with the Richmondtown Library librarians! Attendees can discuss any book/article they've been reading that relates to nature, but the suggested book can be reserved in advance at any NYPL location or digitally through Simply E or Libby. Have unwanted or previously-read books? Bring them and swap with other readers in the area! Adults and teens only. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Wed 26 Mar
The Green Pages: Nature-focused Book Club
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
This month we will make book-themed crafts as we discuss The Overstory by Richard Powers with the Richmondtown Library librarians! Attendees can discuss any book/article they've been reading that relates to nature, but the suggested book can be reserved in advance at any NYPL location or digitally through Simply E or Libby. Have unwanted or previously-read books? Bring them and swap with other readers in the area! Adults and teens only. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Thu 27 Mar
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, March 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Nature Center. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 27 Mar
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, March 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Nature Center. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 27 Mar
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, March 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Nature Center. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 27 Mar
She-Merchants, Sachems, and Slaves: Women in Colonial New York
Thursday, March 27, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Philipse Manor Hall program and education manager Sarah Wassberg Johnson presents this special talk for Women's History Month at the Van Cortlandt House Museum in the Bronx, NY. New York was one of the most diverse of the thirteen colonies, thanks to its Dutch colonial roots. Religious and racial diversity meant that colliding cultures had different ideas of how to treat women. In this talk by historian Sarah Wassberg Johnson, you will learn about women's rights (or lack thereof) in Munsee, Iroquois, African, Dutch, and English culture, and how enslaved women's rights changed over time. Learn about women's roles in everyday life, uprisings, and war. Meet individual women like Dutch she-merchant Margaret Hardenbroeck De Vries Philipse, Esopus sachem Mamanuchqua, Jewish merchant Rebecca Gomez, Revolutionary War soldier Deborah Sampson, and more. Register at http://www.vchm.org/events.html.
Registration: Required
Fri 28 Mar
Sensory Hike: Rise and Shine!
Friday, March 28, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Awaken your senses and tune in to nature in this embodied experience with Linda Parker. You'll be amazed at what you notice when you home in on one sense at a time. Take this opportunity to quiet your mind and connect with the forest using this unique approach. Max: 15 people. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle; NYS residents over 62 park free on weekdays. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Fri 28 Mar
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, March 28, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This will be a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. Registration is not required for this program.
Registration: Not required
Fri 28 Mar
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, March 28, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This will be a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. Registration is not required for this program.
Registration: Not required
Fri 28 Mar
Mineral Springs Tour
Friday, March 28, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Join a tour guide at the Creekside Classroom to learn about the mineral springs in the park. Cups will be provided for tasting the springs. Tours meet at Creekside Classroom every Saturday and Sunday at 11a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Registration: Not required
Fri 28 Mar
Forest Bathing
Friday, March 28, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Experience the enchanting Japanese art of Forest Bathing with a knowledgeable park naturalist. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature, clear your mind, and rejuvenate your spirit. Hiking attire is recommended for this 90-minute journey of tranquility and discovery! Location: Hemlock Woods trail on Crescent Ave. (across from Casino)
Registration: Not required
Fri 28 Mar
Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association Monthly Star Party
Friday, March 28, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Lake Taghkanic State Park
The Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association hosts a monthly stargazing party in the West Beach parking lot. Bring your own telescopes and binoculars or use those provided by our members. You will be asked to provide your license plate number and make/model car, so park management and police have a record of who will be in park after hours. More info at https://www.spy-hill.net/myers/astro/ltsp/. Registration: RSVP is required at least one day beforehand.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Wawarsing Turnpike, Jenny Lane, and Lower Awosting Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Saturday, March 29, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a hike on some of the lesser-travelled trails at Minnewaska during this approximately five-mile outing. Leaving from the Lower Parking Area, we will follow Wawarsing Turnpike Footpath to the west until it intersects Jenny Lane Footpath. Crossing over Route 44/55, we'll follow this trail until it intersects Blueberry Run Footpath. From here, we'll hike a short section of this trail to reach Lower Awosting Carriage Road, which will take us back to our starting point. While scenic views are limited on this outing, it traverses beautiful sections of forest, through stands of evergreen mountain laurel shrubs, across rock slabs with twisted pitch pine trees, and across two clear, mountain streams. This outing includes a few sustained uphill and downhill sections and two stream crossings that may be challenging for some. If conditions are icy, participants are encouraged to bring microspikes or other ice traction devices. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Intro to Birding
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Have you ever wanted to learn how to identify or spot birds near you? Join an educator as we go over the basics of birding including: binoculars, field marks, bird watching and more! Registration is required by calling (518) 279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Trail Talk: Women’s History
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Celebrate Women's History Month as we go for a hike around the lake and discuss some of the most prominent women in the environmental field! To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
NYS Maple Weekends
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
Continual demonstrations of maple sugaring techniques and hourly walks. Pancake breakfasts available for purchase from 10:00am-1:00pm, courtesy of the Friends of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Not required
Sat 29 Mar
NYS Maple Weekends
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
Continual demonstrations of maple sugaring techniques and hourly walks. Pancake breakfasts available for purchase from 10:00am-1:00pm, courtesy of the Friends of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Not required
Sat 29 Mar
Weir Tour
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave. (Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk/parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=285.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Signs of Spring Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Point Au Roche State Park
The first official day of Spring on the calendar is March 20th, but are we seeing signs of it outside yet? Join us on a short walk to find some of nature's signs of Spring!
Registration: Not required
Sat 29 Mar
Spring Bird Walk
Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Shirley Chisholm State Park
Birdwatch and look for signs of spring on the Fountain side of the park! Beginners and experts welcome! Binoculars & guides to borrow. Click here for more information.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, March 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Drop-In Snowshoe Lessons at Sam’s Point Preserve
Saturday, March 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This opportunity is being offered at 11:00 a.m. every Saturday in December, January, February, and March, weather permitting. It is designed for people who are beginners, interested in trying snowshoeing as a new winter activity. Each session will be run by a Sam's Point employee, who will provide instruction on how to properly wear and adjust the snowshoes. They'll also work with you until you are ready to head out on your favorite trail with confidence. The lesson may last up to one hour. Snowshoes are available to rent for this program at a discounted rate of $5 per person at the Sam's Point Visitor Center.
Registration: Not required
Sat 29 Mar
A Life in Service
Saturday, March 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
It took a small army to run this 79-room Gilded Age mansion. See the Mills family residence through the servants' eyes, as they rose before dawn and toiled until after midnight. The tour—led by a costumed guide—will include visiting the unrestored servants' hall. Even in its unrestored state, the hall is a striking artifact of servant life and work, featuring the servants' dining room and the footmen's bedrooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, March 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, March 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Free Community Basketball Clinics Session 1
Saturday, March 29, 2025 12:00 PM - 01:15 PM
Roberto Clemente State Park
Free community basketball clinics learn skills & ball techniques, footwork exercises, Strategy & teamwork exercises, fun games & trial matches. COED for ages 5-7. Space is limited so please do not hesitate to register your child at asphaltgreen.org.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Antler Hunt
Saturday, March 29, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Did you know bucks lose their antlers this time of year? Join educator Bryan Radder to learn more about deer and go on a walk looking for antlers deer have dropped. Meet at the Environmental Education Center (west beach) and use the Rt 290 entrance. Free and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Sat 29 Mar
Transgender Day of Visibility
Saturday, March 29, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Marsha P. Johnson State Park (East River State Park)
Join your community in a celebration of Transgender Day of Visibility! We will be creating art inspired by Marsha P. Johnson and learning about local resources. More details to be announced on our Instagram. All ages. Click here to register.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Free Community Basketball Clinics Session 2
Saturday, March 29, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:45 PM
Roberto Clemente State Park
Free community basketball clinics learn skills & ball techniques, footwork exercises, Strategy & teamwork exercises, fun games & trial matches. COED for ages 8-10. Space is limited so please do not hesitate to register your child at asphaltgreen.org.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Passport to Parks!: String Day Special
Saturday, March 29, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Sunken Meadow State Park (Governor Alfred E. Smith)
Discover Long Island's many state parks in an ongoing monthly hiking series through every State Park on the island! Challenging and accessible hikes each month! Present 10 stickers to be entered into a raffle for a chance to win FREE admission to our 2026Environmental Education programs! Check Eventbrite for times and locations.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Vernal Pool Exploration
Saturday, March 29, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Joseph Davis State Park
Greeted with the sounds of spring, explore the trails of Joseph Davis in search of vernal pools! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Mar
Expert’s Eye: Church as Forest Ecologist with Marc Wolf
Saturday, March 29, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join experts for a series of dialogues on paintings from OLANA's collection that are worth a closer look. During each gallery conversation, experts working in fields of science, art education, ecology, and indigenous history will share what they discover within a picture's frame. Investigate Church's intimate forest paintings with Marc Wolf, Director of Horticulture and Environmental Stewardship at Mountain Top Arboretum in the Catskills. During this conversation, Marc will explore Church's ecological eye in three different forest scenes, illuminating the artist's observations of humanity's environmental impact. This program is $15 per person or $10 for members or Columbia/Greene County residents. To become a member, visit OLANA.org/membership. Advanced registration required. Please contact education@olana.org to learn more. Register.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Signs of Spring
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Spring is coming! Join us as we discuss the changes plants and animals go through as the temperature gets warmer and the days get longer. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
NYS Maple Weekends
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
Continual demonstrations of maple sugaring techniques and hourly walks. Pancake breakfasts available for purchase from 10:00am-1:00pm, courtesy of the Friends of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Not required
Sun 30 Mar
NYS Maple Weekends
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
Continual demonstrations of maple sugaring techniques and hourly walks. Pancake breakfasts available for purchase from 10:00am-1:00pm, courtesy of the Friends of Letchworth State Park. Meet at Humphrey Nature Center.
Registration: Not required
Sun 30 Mar
Maple Tapping
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join an educator in the nature center for a quick history of making maple syrup, the process from beginning to end, and if you are able, come on a short walk to see what trees we are tapping! This program is free and for all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Maple Tapping
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join an educator in the nature center for a quick history of making maple syrup, the process from beginning to end, and if you are able, come on a short walk to see what trees we are tapping! This program is free and for all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, March 30, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Yoga is back! Ring in a healthier new year with our Morning Hatha Yoga class, Sundays at 10:30 AM. The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Fee is $18/class, registration available at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
History of Caumsett
Sunday, March 30, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
(631) 423-1770

On this hilly 2 mile long walk we will study the park's social, economic, architectural and political history. Please call for Reservations: (631) 423- 1770.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Spring Walk on the Aqueduct in Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday, March 30, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 3 miles/3 hours, one-way walk. Meet at McLean Avenue and Sherman Avenue in front of St. Paul the Apostle Church. Street parking is available on McLean Avenue, or use the W20 bus to McLean Avenue or the W4 bus to Sherman Avenue. From McLean Avenue, we will walk south along the Aqueduct through Van Cortlandt Park to Bedford Blvd. West and Goulden Avenue, with a stop by the Jerome Park Reservoir. To return from the one-way walk, you can take the W4 or W20 bus back to McLean Avenue or the #4 or D train available at Bedford Park Blvd. Walk is mostly flat, but rocky; wear appropriate shoes. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=287.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
CPP Hiking Club
Sunday, March 30, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Get outside and enjoy the beauty of our park during this monthly hiking club! We will hike up to 2 miles. All ages. Trails are not stroller friendly. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
CPP Hiking Club
Sunday, March 30, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Get outside and enjoy the beauty of our park during this monthly hiking club! We will hike up to 2 miles. All ages. Trails are not stroller friendly. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Nature Quest
Sunday, March 30, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
Go on an adventurous nature themed scavenger hunt through the Arboretum! Discover the wild in a new way! Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
TEA & TALK SERIES: The Life & Photography of Alice Austen
Sunday, March 30, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staten Island, 1895: 29-year-old Alice Austen bicycles to the Manhattan ferry, carrying 50 pounds of photographic equipment, to take groundbreaking images on the streets of New York City. Austen documented immigrant arrivals at Ellis Island; the construction of the Statue of Liberty; paper boys, street vendors, postmen, and much more of the rich, everyday life of the period. She was the first female photographer to work outside the studio, and was a trailblazer in other aspects of her life: unmarried and living with her female partner, she supported the movement encouraging and instructing women on how to ride a bicycle, which Susan B. Anthony declared, had "...done more to emancipate women than anything in the world." Victoria Munro, Director of the Alice Austen House, will explore Austen's extraordinary life, and share the current activities at her Staten Island home. Cost: $65Reservations required: https://TeaAndTalk.Eventbrite.com/.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Beaver Island Wetland Walk
Sunday, March 30, 2025 02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Beaver Island Nature Center
Join a park naturalist and learn about the importance of wetlands and restorations being done to help maintain the shoreline around Beaver Island's natural wetlands. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
Beaver Island Wetland Walk
Sunday, March 30, 2025 02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Beaver Island State Park
Join a park naturalist and learn about the importance of wetlands and restorations being done to help maintain the shoreline around Beaver Island's natural wetlands. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Mar
The Livingston’s Landscape: Uncover the relationship the Livingstons had with the land and those living on it.
Sunday, March 30, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Meet at the Visitor Center, Free! Join us at Clermont State Historic Site for a guided landscape tour. On this tour we will look back through generations of the Livingston family and explore how their role as landowners shaped the land and local communities. From the questionable land purchases from Indigenous tribes to enslaved men and tenant farmers tilling the soil, to the Livingston's own gentleman farmers, the relationship with the land and those who worked it changed many times over the past 300 years. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. In the event of severe weather this tour will be postponed until April. Please note: This event is free of charge. Reservations are not required but appreciated.
Registration: Not required
Sun 30 Mar
Where does Wildlife Go?
Sunday, March 30, 2025 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Green Lakes State Park
Have you ever wondered what happens to wildlife in the winter? Do all birds fly south? Do bears really sleep all winter? Join an environmental education to learn about the different ways wildlife survive winter. We will also look for tracks and traces of winter wildlife around the park. This will be an outdoor program and includes a short walk (between ¼ to ½ mile) through the snow. Dress for the weather and wear boots. Free and open to the public. Use the Rt 290 entrance and West Beach parking lot.
Registration: Not required
Mon 31 Mar
Little Explorers – FARM ANIMALS!
Monday, March 31, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Point Au Roche State Park
Join a park naturalist for our nature-themed story and playtime for ages 0-5! Come explore with stories, songs, and art projects from 10-10:30, then stay for some outdoor playtime! Farms are a year-round job, but their activity is starting to ramp up! This week we'll learn about all the different animals that live on a farm and talk about our favorites!
Registration: Not required
Tue 01 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 01 Apr
Postural Therapy: Living Comfortably
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Start your day with movement! Get energized in this virtual session with postural therapist, Joey Zimet, and learn exercises to improve posture and function. The class will incorporate unique standing, sitting, and floor exercises that are gentle and easily adapted to fit your needs. These methods are well-studied and based upon neuroscience, biomechanics, the myofascial system, and other variables. Treat yourself to some maintenance and self-care! Registered participants will receive a Zoom link to join. Cost: FREE. Registration required. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Tue 01 Apr
Not So Serious Stroll
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Come along for a family friendly April Fools' Day nature walk. Don't forget your sense of adventure and a good sense of humor! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 01 Apr
First Day of the Month Hike
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719

Join John Brown Farm for a series of guided winter hikes on the first day of the month from February till May. The free hikes are sponsored by the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and will be guided by Cheryl Craft, a historic interpreter for John Brown Farm. The program will focus mainly on getting outdoors and enjoying a small group hiking experience. There will be opportunities to share local history along the way. All hikes will start at 10am and will require advance registration. 

This first hike on April 1 will be on the Old Orchard Loop at the Heaven Hill property near John Brown Farm, where both Black and White neighbors lived in the John Brown era. The Old Orchard Loop is 1.6 miles, with gradual elevation gain. It is the least demanding of the winter series hikes.   

The planned hikes are variable in length and difficulty, though none require any special technical skills. They will require winter gear such as trekking poles, and possibly snowshoes or traction devices depending on trail conditions. Participants will need their own gear. 

Register for hikes by texting or calling the guide at 518-806-9719, preferably in advance, but at least 24 hours before the scheduled hike. You may also search for Events on our Facebook page for additional details.
Registration: Required
Tue 01 Apr
Tuesday Trek: Hike the Mossy Glen Footpath at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abby Hedler, Student Conservation Association/Americorps Environmental Educator, for this approximately four-mile hike along the Peter's Kill stream, through mixed forests and across exposed, quartz conglomerate rock. The first part of this hike will take participants along the full length of the beautiful Mossy Glen Footpath, which is just under two miles. The return trip will follow the easy to walk Lower Awosting Carriage Road. The footpath may include challenging conditions for some, including slippery rocks and tree roots. If conditions are icy, participants are encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 01 Apr
Falls Misconceptions
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 04:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
APRIL FOOLS! Celebrate this annual day of practical jokes and hoaxes with a walk around Niagara Falls to hear all the misconceptions surrounding the area that our team has heard over the years! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Thu 03 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, April 3, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Fri 04 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 4, 2025 08:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Not required
Fri 04 Apr
Timberdoodle Twilight Hours
Friday, April 4, 2025 07:45 PM - 08:45 PM
Evangola State Park
Watch in amusement as woodcocks strut their stuff in a hilarious dance that would make even the finest ballroom dancer envious. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Hike with Mike: Eagle Hill-Pocantico Lake
Saturday, April 5, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
This five-mile, 2-3 hour hike will offer a winter view of Swan Lake, Eagle Hill vistas and our neighbor Pocantico Lake. Leashed dogs are welcome. Be prepared to move at a steady pace; some hiking experience is recommended. Meet in the Visitor Center courtyard. Dress warmly in layers, bring water to drink, and wear comfortable shoes. In case of bad weather, the hike may be canceled; you will be notified by 5 pm the day prior. The hike will leave promptly at 9:00 from the Visitor Center courtyard. Max: 20 people. Cost: FREE. Registration required. Parking: $6 per vehicle. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/event.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Passport Through Parks: Early Earth Day Walk
Saturday, April 5, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
To learn more and to register, please visit NYS Parks Long Island Environmental Education on Eventbrite.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
2025 Belmont Spring Fishing Festival
Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Belmont Lake State Park
The NYS Department of Environmental Education and NYS Parks will be hosting the Spring Family Fishing Festival at Belmont Lake State Park on April 5th, 2025. Festival activities begin at 10 a.m. and are free of charge. A vehicle use fee of $8 will be in effect. Parking is free for Empire Pass holders. Activities include open fishing, fishing & casting instruction, fly-casting demonstrations, food vendors, and a fish cleaning station. DEC and local fishing clubs will host informational displays and loaner rods, and free bait will be available to participants. Children's activities include an inflatable obstacle course, fish printing, the "Spring Fling" casting contest, and hands-on educational displays by DEC and NYS Parks Environmental Educators. Children participating in the casting contest also have a chance to win prizes provided by DEC's I FISH NY Program. This event will be held rain or shine. The Spring Fishing Festival is designated as a Free Fishing Event, so the freshwater fishing license requirement for anglers ages 16 and older is suspended during the event. After 4 p.m., anglers need a valid NY State freshwater fishing license to legally fish. All fishing regulations will continue to apply.
Registration: Not required
Sat 05 Apr
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Buttermilk Falls State Park
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at Upper Parking Lot off West King Road. Hike Bear Trail to Lake Treman and part of Lake Treman Trail. Hike back to lot on Upper Buttermilk Falls Rd. Approximately 2 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Sat 05 Apr
2025 Trout Unlimited Fly-Casting Clinics
Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
(631) 581-1005

The Long Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited will be conducting two clinics on "Basic Fly Casting", one on Saturday, March 15 at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve in Smithtown and one on Saturday, April 5 at Connetquot River State Park Preserve in Oakdale. The clinics will be held rain or shine from 10:00AM – 1:00PM and are open to everyone 16 years and older. If you own fly fishing equipment you are welcome to bring it with you, but it is not required to attend. Clinic topics will include basic casting instructions, equipment needs and selection, conservation, and safety techniques. Reservations are required and will be accepted beginning two weeks prior to each clinic. There is no registration fee. There will be an $8.00 vehicle use fee in effect at the Connetquot River event on April 5, 2025. To register for the clinics, or for further information on lessons, please call Caleb Smith State Park Preserve at (631) 265-1054 or Connetquot River State Park Preserve at (631) 581-1005, Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00AM-4:00PM or leave a message.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Colonial Kitchen Series #4: “ALL MANNER OF COOKERY” EXPERIENCE
Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Crailo State Historic Site
(518) 463-8738

Join us for a historical cooking experience in Crailo's hearth kitchen! The fourth program of Crailo's "Colonial Kitchen" series will provide a hands-on experience in preparing traditional 17th century Dutch fare, while learning about cookery methods and hearth cooking techniques. In a convivial, team environment, participants will help prepare a well-rounded 17th century menu of sweet and savory dishes, after which the group will sit and enjoy the meal they have prepared! Relaxed setting with lots of conversation; all kitchen skills levels invited. This program will be led by Dawn Elliot, Hudson Valley -based history and historical foodways educator, as well as enthusiastic eater! Her knowledge of and experience with hearth cooking and demonstrating 17th and 18th century food preparation may be seen at historic sites and events throughout the Hudson River Valley. Fee for this program is $60 per person, payable by cash or check and includes a copy of the popular 17th century Dutch cookbook, The Sensible Cook. Space is very limited, so please reserve your spot by calling Crailo at (518) 463-8738. Deadline: 4/2.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Tails on Trails at DeVeaux Woods
Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
DeVeaux Woods State Park
Bring your furry friend on this casual walk through the new and old growth woods at DeVeaux while discovering the park's history and what critters might call this park home. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Crafty Kids Family Crafting Day: Welcome Spring!
Saturday, April 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Join us for Spring-inspired crafts and snacks in our newly renovated Visitors Center. For the kids, we have paint-your-own planters, paper flowers, and cute bunny crafts. For the grownups (or maybe even ambitious big kids) we have spring origami and mini canvas to create your own masterpiece! If the preplanned crafts aren't for you, you can make whatever you can imagine using our craft supplies. Light instruction is offered, creativity is encouraged. From internationally recognized Hudson River School painters to dedicated hobbyists who shared their love of the arts with their children, Clermont has always been home to creative people. We continue the tradition with Crafty Kids! Inspired by our past, Crafty Kids grew from a pandemic-era need for community arts programing. Through online tutorials and socially distanced events, dozens of children and their grownups we able to destress and create together during a time of uncertainty. We are excited to continue to offer arts programing to children and their grownups throughout the year, drawing inspiration from seasonal events and local history! Please note: The cost of the event is $5 per person. This is a Family Program; all children must be accompanied by an adult and all adults must be accompanied by a child.
Registration: Not required
Sat 05 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Sugaring Off, 18th Century Style at the Senate House State Historic Site
Saturday, April 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Collecting maple sap and boiling it down to sugar has been a long-standing tradition in North America. Indigenous Peoples in the northeast first collected the sap, boiled it into sugar, and used it in their cooking. When European colonists arrived, they learned how to process the sap from Indigenous Peoples. It was used as a sweetener, in place of expensive cane sugar, in a variety of foods including oatmeal, sausage, and baked goods. Join the staff of Senate House State Historic Site to celebrate the maple season for its annual Sugaring Off event. Activities include boiling maple sap into syrup and maple crafts. Local militia units will also be on-site demonstrating camp-life during the 1700s. Mark Rust will be providing musical entertainment, including a variety of musical instruments such as the banjo, violin, guitar, and spoons. Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, will join Senate House staff in Kingston for this program and will be making maple candy for participants to enjoy. This is a free, family-friendly event! This is a walk-in program; no registration is necessary. For more information, contact the Senate House State Historic Site directly at 845-338-2786.
Registration: Not required
Sat 05 Apr
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Saturday, April 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Story Time & Games
Saturday, April 5, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us at 12:00 PM for story time with librarians from the Yonkers Public Library! Then stay afterwards for historical games, fun for all ages. Explore how people played in the past with games like graces, hoop and stick, battledore and shuttlecock, and many more. This program is free and open to the public, sponsored by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall. Registration is not required. Learn more at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Art in the Park: Frog Crafts
Saturday, April 5, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods with a frog themed day! Join us to make frog crafts and learn some cool frog fun facts. All ages (grandparents too!). Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
FrogWatch Hike
Saturday, April 5, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods with a frog themed day! Join us at sunset to monitor the frogs in our ponds. We will walk up to 1 mile in the dark, flashlights provided. All ages. Trails are not stroller friendly. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Art in the Park: Frog Crafts
Saturday, April 5, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods with a frog themed day! Join us to make frog crafts and learn some cool frog fun facts. All ages (grandparents too!). Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
FrogWatch Hike
Saturday, April 5, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods with a frog themed day! Join us at sunset to monitor the frogs in our ponds. We will walk up to 1 mile in the dark, flashlights provided. All ages. Trails are not stroller friendly. Click here to register!
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Vernal Pool Exploration
Saturday, April 5, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Joseph Davis State Park
Greeted with the sounds of spring, explore the trails of Joseph Davis in search of vernal pools! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Apr
Crepuscular Walk: Night of the Amphibians
Saturday, April 5, 2025 07:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth
Enjoy the chorus of wood frogs and congressing of salamanders, an early sign of spring's arrival. Meet at the Humphrey Nature Center
Registration: Not required
Sat 05 Apr
Crepuscular Walk: Night of the Amphibians
Saturday, April 5, 2025 07:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Letchworth State Park
Enjoy the chorus of wood frogs and congressing of salamanders, an early sign of spring's arrival. Meet at the Humphrey Nature Center
Registration: Not required
Sun 06 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, April 6, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Sun 06 Apr
Hike to Echo Rock at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 6, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Explore scenic sections of the historic Hamilton Point Carriage Road on this approximately five mile hike to Echo Rock, a cliff edge vista with panoramic views. Participants will hike on the western side of Lake Minnewaska, to reach Millbrook Mountain and Hamilton Point Carriage Roads. After reaching Echo Rock, we will retrace our steps to Lake Minnewaska and hike around its east side, soaking up views of the Lake and the surrounding Wallkill Valley. Participants will want to bring comfortable hiking shoes, water and a snack. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Traditional Egg Decorating
Sunday, April 6, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Discover a new method of egg decorating! The technique involves alternating applications of beeswax and dye in such away that the wax protects the color of the dye underneath it. When all layers are completed, the wax is gently melted away by warming the egg over a flame to reveal beautiful, colorful designs. Capacity for this program is 10 adults. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Sunday, April 6, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Watercolor Faeries, Butterflies & Dragonflies
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 18+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Nature Walk
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Golden Hill State Park
Join a park naturalist on a casual hike through the vast trail system at Golden Hill State Park sitting right off of Lake Ontario. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Watercolor Faeries, Butterflies & Dragonflies
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 18+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Watercolor Faeries, Butterflies & Dragonflies
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 18+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 06 Apr
Drop-in Caves & Geology Table
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Thacher Visitor Center. Accessible program. Drop in to the Visitor Center anytime between 1:30pm-3:00pm to learn about local geology and caves with Thom Engel, vice-president of the Northeast Cave Conservancy. This is an informational table; we will not be caving. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 06 Apr
Drop-in Caves & Geology Table
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Thacher Visitor Center. Accessible program. Drop in to the Visitor Center anytime between 1:30pm-3:00pm to learn about local geology and caves with Thom Engel, vice-president of the Northeast Cave Conservancy. This is an informational table; we will not be caving. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 06 Apr
Drop-in Caves & Geology Table
Sunday, April 6, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Thacher Visitor Center. Accessible program. Drop in to the Visitor Center anytime between 1:30pm-3:00pm to learn about local geology and caves with Thom Engel, vice-president of the Northeast Cave Conservancy. This is an informational table; we will not be caving. No registration is required.
Registration: Not required
Mon 07 Apr
Museum Monday
Monday, April 7, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street, Fort Hunter, NY 12069. It's Beer Day! Let's take a look at the Beer-ie Canal! Learn some fascinatingly fermented facts about beer in New York State and along the canalway. This program is free and open to the public. Doors open at 11am with informal discussion at 11:30am.
Registration: Not required
Tue 08 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 08 Apr
Lets Bird Together!
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 08 Apr
Lets Bird Together!
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 08 Apr
Lets Bird Together!
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Thu 10 Apr
Knee High Naturalists
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 10 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, April 10, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Thu 10 Apr
Knee High Naturalists
Thursday, April 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 10 Apr
Knee High Naturalists
Thursday, April 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 10 Apr
Minnewaska Homeschoolers: Fun Frogs
Thursday, April 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, to learn about the amazing amphibians awakening within the vernal pools of Minnewaska State Park Preserve this spring! We will learn about the common characteristics of amphibians and their mating habits. We'll also investigate the metamorphic cycle of wood frogs, the most abundant frog species residing within the Park Preserve. We will take a leisurely hike to hunt for vernal pools in the Peter's Kill Area. Students will get the opportunity to view live wood frog eggs incubating within vernal pools as well as play an interactive game depicting the frog metamorphic cycle. This program is recommended for children between the ages of six to eleven years old, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings capable of participating are welcome to join us. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 12 individuals. Meet at the Peter's Kill Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 10 Apr
Homeschoolers: Fun Frogs at Minnewaska
Thursday, April 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, to learn about the amazing amphibians awakening within the vernal pools of Minnewaska State Park Preserve this spring! We will learn about the common characteristics of amphibians and their mating habits as well as investigate the metamorphic cycle of wood frogs, the most abundant frog species residing within the Park Preserve. We will take a leisurely hike to hunt for vernal pools from the Peter's Kill Area. Students will get the opportunity to view live wood frog eggs incubating within vernal pools as well as play an interactive game depicting the frog metamorphic cycle. This program is recommended for children between the of ages six to eleven years old, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome to join. This program is open to all students learning from home accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 12 individuals. Meet at the Peter's Kill Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 10 Apr
Grape Growing Breeding, & Winemaking in the Hudson Highlands
Thursday, April 10, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
(845) 446-2134

From 1840 to 1900, the Hudson Highlands was one of the premier grape growing and breeding areas of the United States and Europe. Locally bred grape varieties such as Iona, Croton, Empire State, & Dutchess were grown here for wine production and for table consumption in New York City. This talk will cover the lives & work of local 19th Century grape & other fruit breeders such as Dr. Charles W. Grant of Iona Island, The Underhill Family of Croton Point, James Ricketts of Newburgh. We will also discuss the resultant grapes that these fruit breeding pioneers developed and how they were grown and made into wine in the Hudson Highlands. The speaker, J. Stephen Casscles is the author of the book Grapes of the Hudson Valley, whose family lived and continues to live in the Hudson Highlands. Book Sale and Signing after the talk. PLEASE NOTE: The Thursday Night Speaker Series is Proudly Sponsored by the Fort Montgomery Battle Site Association. Seating is by reservation only. Call (845) 446-2134 to Register. Suggested Donation: $5, FMBSA Members $3
Registration: Required
Fri 11 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 11, 2025 08:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Not required
Fri 11 Apr
Spring Forest Bathing at Minnewaska
Friday, April 11, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Immerse yourself in the beautiful forest at Minnewaska on this guided walk led by Jane Dobson with Mind the Forest. The wellness practice of Forest Bathing is the perfect antidote to the fatigue and stress many of us feel as a result of our technology-laden and busy lives. On this approximately half-mile walk, we will slow down and directly experience the world through our senses. We'll rekindle curiosity and let go of our to-do lists. As we mindfully connect with the natural world, our perspective shifts, opening us to awe and wonder, and deepening our sense of connection. This wellness practice continues to grow across the globe as science demonstrates the health benefits of Forest Bathing, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, focus and sleep. Join us for one or all sessions of this five-part spring series as we use mindfulness to explore themes of sensory anesthesia, species loneliness, and our relationship with time. This program is open to participants aged 16 and older, with minors accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 11 Apr
Walkway At Night
Friday, April 11, 2025 07:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Friends of the Walkway is pleased to offer the opportunity to enjoy amazing Hudson Valley views after dark from 212 feet above the Hudson River at Walkway at Night. With the moon hanging high in the sky and the Mid-Hudson Bridge twinkling in the distance, there is truly nothing like a twilight evening on the World's Longest Elevated Pedestrian Bridge. Our friends from the Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association will be on-bridge with telescopes to view the night sky (weather permitting). As always, Walkway members are welcome to attend at no cost. Non-members can register for $5. Children 12 and under are free. Members have been emailed a special discount code to use upon registration providing one complimentary admission to Individual members, and up to four complimentary admissions for Household members. Reserve your ticket for entry at walkway.org/walkwayatnight.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Saturday, April 12, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staatsburgh State Historic Site and the surrounding Mills and Norrie State Parks possess a great variety of environments in proximity, an ideal environment for birding. Experienced birders will enjoy a walk through several interesting environments, inexperienced birders will find encouragement and a helping hand, and newbies will be able to discuss equipment, apps, and techniques. We will also be on the lookout for the many wildflowers that bloom in the park. Volunteer walk leader David Lund has been birding daily for the last 35 years. Cost: free, Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Spice Up Your Life
Saturday, April 12, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us for a hands-on class about eating seasonally throughout the year, discover new foods and ways to eat them, and create your own spice blends to enjoy! This program is part of our monthly gardening series. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Hike to Echo Rock and through the Meadows at Minnewaska
Saturday, April 12, 2025 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for an approximately four-mile hike on five historic carriage roads and one footpath. Starting from the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, we will hike a short section of the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road to reach the Upper Awosting Carriage Road, which we'll follow until we intersect the Meadows Footpath. Then, we'll meander through sections of the former Lake Minnewaska resort's apple orchard and golf course, until we intersect Castle Point Carriage Road. We'll continue west on this carriage road for a short while, taking the connector trail down to Hamilton Point Carriage Road. From here, we will continue until we arrive at Echo Rock, a cliffside, scenic vista that offers an expansive view over the Palmaghatt Ravine. We will return by heading back on the Hamilton Point, Millbrook Mountain, and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads, circling the east side of the Lake to return to our starting point. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Outdoor Skills
Saturday, April 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Evangola State Park
Learn to build an emergency shelter from natural materials and practice navigation and fire building techniques. For adults and children aged 8 and older. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Weir Tour
Saturday, April 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave. (Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk/parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=289.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Yonkers Waterfront Walking Tour
Saturday, April 12, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
(914) 965-4027

Why was Philipse Manor Hall built where it was? Why did the Munsee have a village in downtown Yonkers for thousands of years? How did the Yonkers waterfront change over time? Learn the answers to these questions and more as you explore the daylighted Saw Mill River and Yonkers' Hudson River waterfront. $6 for adults, $3 for seniors and students. Tickets include museum admission. To register, email philipsemanorhall@parks.ny.gov or call 914-965-4027.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 12, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Spring Egg Hunt at Orient Beach Park
Saturday, April 12, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Orient Beach State Park
The Spring Egg Hunt at Orient Beach State Park, happening on Saturday, April 12 at 11am, features an egg hunt for children, photos with the Spring Bunny, children's activities, and family entertainment. A rain date for the event is scheduled for Sunday, April 13 at 1pm. An $8 parking fee will be in effect for the event date and rain date.
Registration: Not required
Sat 12 Apr
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Saturday, April 12, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 12, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 12, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
DIY Birdhouses
Saturday, April 12, 2025 11:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join a park naturalist in a hands-on birdhouse building program. We will talk about some common backyard birds, their nesting preferences and their importance. Then participants will get the opportunity to assemble and take home their own birdhouse. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Spring Egg Hunt at Belmont Lake State Park
Saturday, April 12, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Belmont Lake State Park
The Spring Egg Hunt at Belmont Lake State Park, happening on Saturday, April 12, from 12pm to 2pm, features an egg hunt for children up to nine years old, photos with the Spring Bunny, a princess meet and greet, pony rides, a petting zoo, children's games, and family entertainment. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. A rain date for the event is scheduled for Sunday, April 13, 12pm to 2pm. An $8 parking fee will be in effect for the event date and rain date.
Registration: Not required
Sat 12 Apr
Earth Day Story Hour and Nature Walk for Families
Saturday, April 12, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Celebrate the Earth and the environment at Clermont! Join us in our historic Visitor Center for an afternoon of stories about the little blue dot we call home. Enjoy healthy snacks and a leisurely nature walk lead by one of our ecology educators. As this event includes and outdoor component, please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Please note: This is a family program. All children must be accompanied by adults, all adults must be accompanied by a child. This event is free of charge, but visitors must register in advance.
Registration: Not required
Sat 12 Apr
Make a Fascinator Workshop
Saturday, April 12, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Just in time for Easter, the Kentucky Derby, and the spring season, make your own fascinator to take home...or to the races! These small, striking hats have adorned the heads of fashionable women for centuries. Instruction and all materials will be provided, along with light refreshments. Reservations required: https://fascinator.eventbrite.com, Cost: $12; Friends of Mills at Staatsburgh Member: $10
Registration: Required
Sat 12 Apr
Full Moon Hike: “Pink Moon”
Saturday, April 12, 2025 07:30 PM - 09:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Tickets available April 19 at 10 am, Experience the Preserve after dark! Join Shayla, Hailey, and Dave for a 4-mile hike on carriage roads lit by moonlight. We walk at a brisk pace and there will be hills; some hiking experience is recommended. Leashed dogs are welcome. Meet in the Visitor Center courtyard. Please bring water, a flashlight or headlamp, and wear comfortable closed-toed shoes. IMPORTANT: We leave promptly at scheduled times. This hike takes place after the park has closed; latecomers will not be able to join after the group has departed. In the event of rain or snow, the hike will be canceled; you will be notified at least 2 hours in advance. Max: 40 people. Cost: $4 RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, April 13, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Sun 13 Apr
Babes in the Woods at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 13, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for a guided walk for parents with infants and/or young children. We'll take a leisurely stroll along the two-mile loop around Lake Minnewaska, allowing ourselves to take plenty of rests and admire the scenic views. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Infants and young children must be in a secure carrier or jogging-type stroller designed for rough terrain for the duration of the hike. Older siblings are always welcome, too. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 20 individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Tuesday Trek: Out to Patterson’s Pellet and back along the Cliffs at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 13, 2025 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abby Hedler, Student Conservation Association/Americorps Environmental Educator, for a morning stroll to check out the cliffside views of the Palmaghatt Ravine from Patterson's Pellet, a glacial erratic perched on the cliffs above this scenic ravine. From here, we'll return to Lake Minnewaska, following the carriage road around from west to east, until we encounter the Beacon Hill Footpath. This lovely trail, which does include hills and some tricky footing, snakes along the cliff edge looking east towards New Paltz. The total distance for this walk is approximately six miles. Please bring enough water and food to sustain you and dress for the season, wearing boots with good traction. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Out to Patterson’s Pellet and back along the Cliffs at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 13, 2025 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a morning stroll to check out the cliffside views of the Palmaghatt Ravine from Patterson's Pellet, a glacial erratic perched on the cliffs above this scenic ravine. From here, we'll return to Lake Minnewaska, following the carriage road around from west to east, until we encounter the Beacon Hill Footpath. This lovely trail, which does include hills and some tricky footing, snakes along the cliff edge looking east towards New Paltz. The total distance for this walk is approximately six miles. Please bring enough water and food to sustain you and dress for the season, wearing boots with good traction. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Chicken or the Egg?
Sunday, April 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Which one came first?! Join us to learn about the science behind the age-old question. We will dive into the evolution of chickens, starting all the way back to the dinosaurs, we will do some egg-citing activities, and there will be a fun craft! To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Blue Birding
Sunday, April 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Did you know that the Eastern Bluebird is the official bird of New York State? Enjoy a walk to observe the many nesting bluebirds of Knox Farm. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Back From the Brink: Bald Eagles
Sunday, April 13, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Ages 8 and up. How did America's national symbol almost disappear? Learn about the history of Bald Eagles on an easy 1-mile hike through prime eagle habitat. We'll observe an active eagle nest and, if we're lucky, see young bald eagles with their parents! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Back From the Brink: Bald Eagles
Sunday, April 13, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Ages 8 and up. How did America's national symbol almost disappear? Learn about the history of Bald Eagles on an easy 1-mile hike through prime eagle habitat. We'll observe an active eagle nest and, if we're lucky, see young bald eagles with their parents! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Back From the Brink: Bald Eagles
Sunday, April 13, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Ages 8 and up. How did America's national symbol almost disappear? Learn about the history of Bald Eagles on an easy 1-mile hike through prime eagle habitat. We'll observe an active eagle nest and, if we're lucky, see young bald eagles with their parents! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 13 Apr
Flag Changing Ceremony
Sunday, April 13, 2025 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
The American Legion Post 739 organize and present monthly Flag Changing Ceremonies on the Walkway to honor our region's veterans and their serviceto our country. These events, organized and presented by these local veterans' organizations, are open to all who wish to attend.
Registration: Not required
Sun 13 Apr
TEA & TALK SERIES: How to Throw a Dinner Party in the Gilded Age
Sunday, April 13, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
For more than merely eating food, the Gilded Age dinner table was the supreme accomplishment of a hostess, according to Emily Post in 1922. Beth M. Forrest, Professor of Liberal Arts and Applied Food Studies at the Culinary Institute of America, uses cookbooks, etiquette manuals, and other primary source documents to consider the social expectations of both the host and the guest, from how to choose the menu and set the table, to the proper way to eat your soup. Cost: $65. Reservations required: https://TeaAndTalk.Eventbrite.com/.
Registration: Required
Tue 15 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 15 Apr
Lets Bird Together!
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 15 Apr
BioBlitz By the Lake
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
How many different species of plants and animals can we find during one hour at the park? Let's find out together! Please have the free "iNaturalist" app pre-downloaded and bring your own smartphone to participate in this program. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 15 Apr
School Break Programs at Minnewaska: Family Hiking Best Practices
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Do you want to take your family on exciting hiking trips, but first you'd like to learn what to bring, how to be prepared and how to also be respectful of the land? Join Minnewaska's Educators with special guest presenter, Myra Romano, Trail Steward Program Coordinator and Level Two Leave No Trace Instructor with the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, for a fun day of hiking and learning. Myra will bring her backpack with all the tools she carries on long hikes. As she unpacks her tools, she'll give a demonstration and discussion about the importance of being properly prepared for hiking and camping. And, she'll teach everyone about the best practices for Leave No Trace, so that your enjoyment doesn't damage the natural area that you're visiting. After the presentation, we'll all take a three-mile-long hike along the scenic Beacon Hill Loop, which traverses carriage roads as well as a narrow, cliff-edge footpath. The views are gorgeous and we'll stop along the way to look for signs of spring. This program is recommended for families with children over the age of eight years old, but younger siblings who are capable of participating are welcome. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Please come properly prepared with adequate hiking shoes, water and food. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 15 Apr
Lets Bird Together!
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Tue 15 Apr
Lets Bird Together!
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Stop by to see which birds are enjoying our feeders! An educator will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about native birds, bird feeders, and FeederWatch—a citizen science initiative that allows you to contribute to real-life research projects. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Wed 16 Apr
School Break Programs at Minnewaska: Climate Change Crash Course for Families
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Bring your family and join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, to review the basics of climate change. We'll debunk the common misconceptions about climate change, explore the science behind the greenhouse effect, face the effects of climate change, and explore the ways in which we can combat the crisis. Following the presentation, we'll create our own informative climate change posters to display at home and educate friends. We will wrap up the program with an approximately two-mile hike around Lake Minnewaska to center ourselves and appreciate the natural world we are enveloped in. This program is recommended for the whole family. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Infants and young children must be in a secure carrier or jogging-type stroller designed for rough terrain for the duration of the hike. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 20 individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
School Break Programs at Sam’s Point: Be A Geologist Hike around Lake Maratanza
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
(845) 647-7989

Join Becca Howe-Parisio, Environmental Educator, for this three-mile loop walk to view the magnificent Lake Maratanza. On our way to the Lake, we will stop at the Sam's Point Overlook, where we will discover some features left by the last glaciers. Once we reach the Lake, we will discuss the geologic process that formed this water body. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Infants and young children must be in a secure carrier or jogging-type stroller designed for rough terrain for the duration of the hike. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 20 individuals. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by signing up via Eventbrite.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
Mythology and Mascarons - The Faces of Staatsburgh
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staatsburgh's ceilings and walls are decorated with three-dimensional gilded faces; symbols of kings, archetypes, and mythological figures. Explore these ornamental faces, known as mascarons, and then sculpt one of your own! For children ages 8 to 12, accompanied by an adult. Reservations required: https://springbreakmascarons.eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
Earth Day Upcycle
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Come celebrate Earth Day with us! We will create upcycled crafts and toys. All recycled supplies will be provided, just bring your creativity! To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
Egg Layers from Around the World
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Come meet some of our live animal ambassadors as we learn about the different egg layers that call the Nature Center home. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
Egg Layers from Around the World
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Come meet some of our live animal ambassadors as we learn about the different egg layers that call the Nature Center home. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
Egg Layers from Around the World
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Come meet some of our live animal ambassadors as we learn about the different egg layers that call the Nature Center home. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Wed 16 Apr
Caribbean Connections to New Netherland
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Did you know the first non-Indigenous person to live in New York was from Santo Domingo? Or that the Dutch were trading with and colonizing the Caribbean and South America at the same time as New York? Join us for this special program tracing the connections between the Caribbean and the Dutch colony of New Netherland (today New York), including people like Juan Rodriguez and the Philipses, events like the war between Spain and the Netherlands, and the Dutch global trade for salt, sugar, and mahogany. Learn more and register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, April 17, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Thu 17 Apr
Vernal Pool Exploration
Thursday, April 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at Hop Field. Come explore this temporary wetland brimming with life – a vernal pool! We'll examine amphibians and encounter egg masses as we dip our toes into the diversity of this important habitat. Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
Storm Resiliency Stroll
Thursday, April 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the northern half of the park, where our storm resiliency devices can be spotted! Please come prepared for an out and back hike of roughly 5 miles. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
School Break Programs at Minnewaska: Tricky Track Identification
Thursday, April 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Bring the whole family and join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, to learn the basics of animal track identification. We will view a brief presentation detailing the ins-and-outs of animal track identification, then we'll take a stroll along the Beacon Hill Carriage Road, which features a scenic view at the terminus. This one-mile roundtrip route is frequented by wildlife and, if we're lucky, we may find signs of their visits here. Participants will be provided materials needed to document their animal track finds. This program is recommended for the whole family. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Infants and young children must be in a secure carrier or jogging-type stroller designed for rough terrain for the duration of the hike. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 20 individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
It's a Gilded Life
Thursday, April 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Children will learn how life was lived in a Gilded Age mansion more than 100 years ago. Included is a tour of the opulent 79-room home of Ogden and Ruth Livingston Mills, followed by hands-on activities that allow participants to compare and contrast the lives of the servants and the gentry. For children ages 8 to 12, accompanied by an adult. Reservations required: https://springbreakgildedlife.eventbrite.com
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
Vernal Pool Exploration
Thursday, April 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at Hop Field. Come explore this temporary wetland brimming with life – a vernal pool! We'll examine amphibians and encounter egg masses as we dip our toes into the diversity of this important habitat. Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
Vernal Pool Exploration
Thursday, April 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at Hop Field. Come explore this temporary wetland brimming with life – a vernal pool! We'll examine amphibians and encounter egg masses as we dip our toes into the diversity of this important habitat. Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 17 Apr
Special Earth Day Third Thursday
Thursday, April 17, 2025 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Stop by the Wagon House Education Center for fun activities and prizes from 2:00-5:00pm, including a special nature scavenger hunt with the Columbia Land Conservancy.
Registration: Not required
Thu 17 Apr
Third Thursday: Make Your Own OLANA Nature Zine!
Thursday, April 17, 2025 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Celebrate Earth Month with art! Stop by the Wagon House Education Center for a free zine-making workshop all afternoon led by The Olana Partnership teaching artists and educators. Let the landscapes of Olana inspire you and explore techniques for making your own zine to take home. All materials, refreshments, and drinks will be provided. FREE.
Registration: Not required
Thu 17 Apr
Third Thursday: Climate Cuties Hike
Thursday, April 17, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Looking for someone who loves the planet as much as you do? Join this special Earth Month evening hike at Olana to mingle with fellow nature enthusiasts. Explore Olana's landscape, learn about Frederic and Isabel Church's shared passion for the natural world, and enjoy an evening of fresh air, conversation, and watching the sunset together. FREE; no registration required. Meets at the Wagon House Education Center. Ages 18+.
Registration: Not required
Fri 18 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 18, 2025 08:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Not required
Fri 18 Apr
Field Guide Friday: Amphibians at Sam’s Point
Friday, April 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Dust off your old, field identification guides and join Becca Howe-Parisio, Environmental Educator, on a hike to learn how to use it. On this three-mile, moderate adventure, we will search for amphibians along the Loop Road and use a field guide to identify different critters living in the Park Preserve. Taking the time to learn tracks using field guides and rulers reinforces your knowledge of the unique characteristics of that animal. This leaves a more durable memory than the quick impression made when using apps on technology. Do not fret if you don't own a field guide, there will be field guides available to borrow. Field Guide Friday will be a monthly program, focusing on different topics as the seasons change. This program is suited for anyone who is old enough to read and is interested in learning how to use a book to identify plants, insects, and more. Participants must bring water and snacks and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by signing up via Eventbrite.
Registration: Required
Fri 18 Apr
Architecture of Staatsburgh
Friday, April 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Learn about, design, and build your very own Staatsburgh like Gilded Age Architect Stanford White did. Using neo-classical architectural elements including columns, fanlights, pediments, and porticos, participants will build cardboard models. For children ages 8 to 12, accompanied by an adult. Reservations required: https://springbreakarchitecture.eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Fri 18 Apr
Dobbs Ferry Library Storytime
Friday, April 18, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Join the Old Croton Aqueduct and the Dobbs Ferry Public Library for the start of our monthly toddler storytime! Stop by the Keeper's House to read about a diverse trail topics before taking part in a small craft. Afterwards, we encourage you to take a stroll along the trail and enjoy the morning! 10:30 AM, Location: OCA Keeper's House, 15 Walnut Street, Dobbs Ferry, Free, Ages: Toddler
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Earth Day & Adopt a Highway
Saturday, April 19, 2025 08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve
The day will begin with our early risers at 8am organizing for a 9D clean-up followed by fun family beach clean-up slots 10-12pm or 12-2pm. Please register to attend, this is a free event.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Low Sensory Hour - Spring Celebration with Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 19, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
A structured and fun low-sensory experience designed for children with low-sensory needs ages 1-8.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Creekside Clean Up for Canal Clean Sweep
Saturday, April 19, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Aqueduct Boat Launch, Hartley Lane. Join us for this volunteer shoreline clean up at the confluence of the Schoharie and Mohawk. We'll trek out as the water levels are low to clean up debris, garbage, refuse, and more so that it doesn't make its way into the canal waters this season. Please dress appropriately for the weather, wear sturdy work boots and bring gloves.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Saturday, April 19, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staatsburgh State Historic Site and the surrounding Mills and Norrie State Parks possess a great variety of environments in proximity, an ideal environment for birding. Experienced birders will enjoy a walk through several interesting environments, inexperienced birders will find encouragement and a helping hand, and newbies will be able to discuss equipment, apps, and techniques. We will also be on the lookout for the many wildflowers that bloom in the park. Volunteer walk leader David Lund has been birding daily for the last 35 years. Cost: free, Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Wawarsing Turnpike, Jenny Lane, and Lower Awosting Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Saturday, April 19, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a hike on some of the lesser-travelled trails at Minnewaska during this approximately five-mile outing. Leaving from the Lower Parking Area, we'll cross over Route 44/55 and hike the Wawarsing Turnpike Footpath to the west until it intersects Jenny Lane Footpath. Crossing over Route 44/55 again, we'll follow this trail until it intersects Blueberry Run Footpath. From here, we'll hike a short section of this trail to reach Lower Awosting Carriage Road, which will take us back to our starting point. While scenic views are limited on this outing, it traverses beautiful sections of forest, through stands of evergreen mountain laurel shrubs, across rock slabs with twisted pitch pine trees, and across two clear, mountain streams. This outing includes a few sustained uphill and downhill sections and two stream crossings that may be challenging for some. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Spring Celebration with Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 19, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Interactive music by FunikiJam, crafts, petting zoo and thousands of eggs for ages 1-8.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Hyde Hall and Glimmerglass Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Glimmerglass State Park
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Create and Cook: Family Cooking & Art Workshop
Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Get creative in the kitchen and art studio at Olana State Historic Site! Join The Sylvia Center Chefs and The Olana Partnership educators for a fun, family-friendly program focused on cooking food and making art inspired by Olana's landscape and history. Try new foods and test new art materials together during this FREE family program! This class focuses on making a delicious Minestrone vegetable soup and exploring early signs of spring. For families with children 18 and under (children must be accompanied by an adult). This is the first in a series of three classes – register for one or all three! This program is FREE (suggested donation $12). Registration includes art-making supplies and all ingredients to make lunch. Advance registration required. For more information, please contact education@olana.org or call (518) 567-2170.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Family Tour: A Closer Look
Saturday, April 19, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Experience learning, looking closely, and conversation as a family during this series of special museum gallery tours at Olana State Historic Site. Each month, The Olana Partnership educators will lead an exploration of two to three works of art on the second floor galleries through family-friendly dialogue and other hands-on activities. After your tour, extend your day at OLANA and head down to the Wagon House Education Center for a free drop-in program, Art Making in the Afternoon from 1-4pm. Designed for families with children ages 3 and up. $15 adults; children under 12 are free. Advanced registration required. Please contact education@olana.org to learn more.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Apr
Artmaking in the Afternoon
Saturday, April 19, 2025 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
(518) 751-6938

Inspired by your time at Olana or looking for family-friendly fun? Participate in free, drop-in artmaking in the Wagon House Education Center from 1-4pm and learn more about Frederic Church's artist-designed home and studio on the Hudson. This drop-in artmaking program is open to all ages and skill levels; all materials provided. FREE. No advanced registration required. Contact education@olana.org or call (518) 751-6938 for more info.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
Changing Seasons
Saturday, April 19, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Whirlpool State Park
Join us for a short hike as we watch winter melt away and search for signs of spring! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Apr
History in the Trees Guided Tour
Saturday, April 19, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Walk back in time as we visit the Copake Iron Works and walk the Iron Workers Trail. Learn about how the iron production influenced the forest and how the forest helped shape the Ironworks. Our Park educator will take you through a brief history of the Copake Iron Works and development of the Park you see today, while we learn a little about the natural world around us. Free Event.
Registration: Not required
Sun 20 Apr
Drop-in Earth Day Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, April 20, 2025 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Celebrate Earth Day by stopping by the Nature Center between 9am and 3pm to pick up an Earth Day Scavenger Hunt. Bring the completed scavenger hunt back to the Nature Center for a prize! Note: trails are often muddy in the spring; dress for the weather. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 20 Apr
Drop-in Earth Day Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, April 20, 2025 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Celebrate Earth Day by stopping by the Nature Center between 9am and 3pm to pick up an Earth Day Scavenger Hunt. Bring the completed scavenger hunt back to the Nature Center for a prize! Note: trails are often muddy in the spring; dress for the weather. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 20 Apr
Drop-in Earth Day Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, April 20, 2025 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Celebrate Earth Day by stopping by the Nature Center between 9am and 3pm to pick up an Earth Day Scavenger Hunt. Bring the completed scavenger hunt back to the Nature Center for a prize! Note: trails are often muddy in the spring; dress for the weather. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 20 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, April 20, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Sun 20 Apr
Scenic Hike along Beacon Hill and around Lake Minnewaska
Sunday, April 20, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Park Educators for an approximately three-mile hike along Beacon Hill Carriage Road, Beacon Hill Footpath, and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road. From the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, we'll walk down to the Beacon Hill Carriage Road, which we'll follow until we connect with the Beacon Hill Footpath, which ends near Lake Minnewaska. We'll then continue around the west side of Lake Minnewaska on the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road. On a clear day, this route offers numerous, beautiful, scenic vistas of the Park Preserve and the Wallkill Valley. The footpath section of this hike includes some continuous uphill sections and uneven footing, which may be difficult for some. All participants should come well prepared with appropriate footwear, food, and water. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 20 Apr
Croton Dam Hike
Sunday, April 20, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Enjoy a free, easy, 2 miles/2 hours (total) loop hike north along the Aqueduct and atop the beautiful Croton Dam. Meet near the restrooms at the rear (south end) of the parking lot at Croton Gorge Park, Rte. 129, Cortlandt, NY. 10567, GPS Coordinates: 41°13′ 20.46" N -73°51′12.59" W. The leader of the hike will discuss the history and construction of the Old Croton Aqueduct and the features of the Croton Dam, the trailhead of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail. The Aqueduct was completed in 1842 to supply fresh water to a thirsty New York City. (From Metro-North Hudson Line Croton-Harmon Train Station: 15-minute taxi.) Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: preregistration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=290.
Registration: Required
Mon 21 Apr
Beginner Bird Walk
Monday, April 21, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join a park naturalist on a beginner friendly guided walk to learn the basics of birding, binoculars will be provided but attendees are welcome to bring their own as well! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 22 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 22 Apr
Tuesday Trek: The Shorter and More Scenic Route to Gertrude’s Nose at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abby Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for an adventurous, six-mile round-trip hike to Gertrude's Nose and back along the same route. This footpath, which traverses an escarpment edge, offers one of the most expansive views in Minnewaska. From our start at Lake Minnewaska, this route will follow Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road to Gertrude's Nose Footpath, which offers broad views of the Wallkill Valley, Taconic Mountains and beyond. This modestly challenging hike includes a long set of steep, rock stairs, as well as a few hills and some tricky footing. Participants must bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Please note, if the trail is still closed for safety reasons, this hike route will be changed. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 22 Apr
Earth Day- PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet  to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Learn how you can take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures.
Registration: Not required
Tue 22 Apr
Earth Day- Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Botany of Delta Lake State Park- What's in a Rose? It is the NY State Flower- Learn the parts of a flower. Decorate a small flower pot. Plant seeds in your pot to start a butterfly garden. 
Registration: Not required
Tue 22 Apr
Friends of Schoharie Crossing Meeting
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Enders House, Schoharie Street, Fort Hunter. The Friends of Schoharie Crossing will hold their spring meeting to discuss upcoming programs, events, and projects. A speaker will offer a presentation about a topic of interest. TDB. This is open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Tue 22 Apr
Stargazing under the Lyrids
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 08:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Golden Hill State Park
Join a park naturalist under stars as we explore the peak of the Lyrid Meteor shower and other constellations in our night sky. Curious beginners and warm clothing encouraged. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 23 Apr
Pink Moon Walk
Wednesday, April 23, 2025 08:00 PM - 09:30 PM
Knox Farm State Park
Enjoy an evening stroll through Knox Farm in search of nocturnal animals under the Pink Moon. Adults only. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Thu 24 Apr
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Thursday, April 24, 2025 06:00 AM - 08:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents and experience the "dawn chorus" during the peak of breeding song with an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Rain or shine except in extreme weather, in which case you will receive a cancellation email 2 hours before the scheduled walk. Binocular loans available upon request. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Thu 24 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, April 24, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Thu 24 Apr
Knee High Naturalists
Thursday, April 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 24 Apr
Knee High Naturalists
Thursday, April 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. 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.
Registration: Required
Thu 24 Apr
Knee High Naturalists
Thursday, April 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. 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.
Registration: Required
Fri 25 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 25, 2025 08:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Not required
Fri 25 Apr
Sensory Hike: Rise and Shine!
Friday, April 25, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Awaken your senses as you slow down and tune in to nature in this embodied experience with Linda Parker. You'll be amazed at what you notice when you focus on one sense at a time. Meet in the Visitor Center courtyard. Please dress warmly and bring water to drink. In case of bad weather, the program may be canceled or postponed; you will be notified via email by 5 pm the day before. Max: 15 people. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle; NYS residents over 62 park free on weekdays. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Fri 25 Apr
Spring Forest Bathing at Minnewaska
Friday, April 25, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Immerse yourself in the beautiful forest at Minnewaska State Park Preserve on this guided walk led by Jane Dobson with Mind the Forest. The wellness practice of Forest Bathing is the perfect antidote to the fatigue and stress many of us feel as a result of our technology-laden and busy lives. On this walk along Mossy Glen Footpath, we will slow down and directly experience the world through our senses. We'll rekindle curiosity and let go of our to-do lists. As we mindfully connect with the natural world, our perspective shifts, opening us to awe and wonder, and deepening our sense of connection. This wellness practice continues to grow across the globe as science demonstrates the health benefits of Forest Bathing, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, focus and sleep. Join us for one or all of the sessions in this five-part spring series as we use mindfulness to explore themes of sensory anesthesia, species loneliness, and our relationship with time. This program is open to participants aged 16 and older, with minors accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 25 Apr
Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association Monthly Star Party
Friday, April 25, 2025 07:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Lake Taghkanic State Park
The Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association hosts a monthly stargazing party in the West Beach parking lot. Bring your own telescopes and binoculars or use those provided by our members. You will be asked to provide your license plate number and make/model car, so park management and police have a record of who will be in park after hours. More info at https://www.spy-hill.net/myers/astro/ltsp/. Registration: RSVP is required at least one day beforehand.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Saturday, April 26, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents and experience the "dawn chorus" during the peak of breeding song with an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Rain or shine except in extreme weather, in which case you will receive a cancellation email 2 hours before the scheduled walk. Binocular loans available upon request. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Annual Yonkers OCA Clean Up
Saturday, April 26, 2025 08:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Yonkers has been at the forefront of climate activism in urban locations for many years now. It continues to find ways to provide access to clean nature and green space for its residents, with the aqueduct being a major transportation link to many of the city parks and green spaces. Join Mayor Spano and other Yonkers official and local volunteers for this annual spring cleanup of the trail. Registration begins at 8:30 with Mayor Spano kicking it off at 9:00! Pre-register by emailing Parks@Yonkersny.gov. 8:30 AM, Location: OCA at Walnut Street, Yonkers, Free, Ages: All Ages.
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Saturday, April 26, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staatsburgh State Historic Site and the surrounding Mills and Norrie State Parks possess a great variety of environments in proximity, an ideal environment for birding. Experienced birders will enjoy a walk through several interesting environments, inexperienced birders will find encouragement and a helping hand, and newbies will be able to discuss equipment, apps, and techniques. We will also be on the lookout for the many wildflowers that bloom in the park. Volunteer walk leader David Lund has been birding daily for the last 35 years. Cost: free, Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Castle Point and Blueberry Run Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Saturday, April 26, 2025 09:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Come join Nick Martin, Park Educator, to celebrate the springing of spring! On this hike, we'll explore Castle Point Carriage Road and search for signs of the arrival of spring in the Shawangunk Mountains, where spring typically comes later than in the surrounding valleys. This approximately seven-mile hike will start in the Lake Minnewaska area and will follow the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road and Castle Point Carriage Road to reach Castle Point, a scenic vista with commanding views of the surrounding Park Preserve and Wallkill Valley. We will return to Lake Minnewaska on Blueberry Run Footpath and Upper Awosting Carriage Road. The footpath section of this hike has uneven surfaces, wet areas, and some potentially tricky footing that some may find challenging. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Woofs and Waterfalls
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Niagara Falls State Park
Enjoy a leisurely walk with your dog and a park naturalist around Goat Island. It is not necessary to have a dog to participate, however, all dogs in attendance must be up-to-date on immunizations, leashed and under control. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Divided Loyalties: Revolutionary War on the Aqueduct
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
The Old Croton Aqueduct between Dobbs Ferry and Hastings-on-Hudson crosses several colonial tenant farms impacted by the Revolutionary War. Walk and learn how the war divided neighbors and families into patriots or loyalists and everything in between. Discuss the dangerous, war-torn contested grounds of Westchester County and how it shaped our area following its conclusion. This free, two-hour tour is offered in partnership with Revolutionary Westchester 250, the Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park, and Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct and will cover about 4 miles. Tour starts at the Mercy College parking lot (bleachers) next to the trail. We will be walking towards Revolutionary Walk in Hastings and back. This walk may be rescheduled due to bad weather. To register, visit https://aqueduct.org/events.10:00 AM, Location: Smith Field, Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, Free, Ages: All Ages
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Meandering among the Mansions of the Historic Millionaires Irvington and Tarrytown Walk
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy 4-mile/3 hour loop beginning and ending at Irvington Village Hall at 85 Main Street, Irvington. Enjoy the mostly level, shaded walk in one of the most historic sections of the Aqueduct. First stop is the Tiffany Reading Room inside Village Hall, to view one of the only remaining Louis Comfort Tiffany interiors. View the remarkable Villa Lewaro, the estate of Madam CJWalker, the African-American entrepreneur who was America's first female self-made millionaire. Walk the grounds of Lyndhurst Mansion, country home of notorious robber baron, Jay Gould and location site for HBO's "The Gilded Age." Along the way, we will talk about the history of the Aqueduct, the origins of the Village of Irvington and Washington Irving's fascinating connection with the Village. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: preregistration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=292.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Bookganza at Schoharie Crossing
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street. Join us for an outdoor book exchange as we belatedly celebrate World Book Day (4/23). Bring your boxes of exchangeable books to share with others, swap out some of your most treasured literary works for new undiscovered favorites! A great way to re-stock Little Free Libraries, introduce new authors, share hand me ups/hand me downs for children's books, and socialize with others. This program will be held outside the Visitor Center and Museum. Downpours/bad weather will postpone or cancel. Free, open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Earth Day Celebration
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Earth Day is a time to get together! Learn how nature and our communities can stay healthy! Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Wellness for us, means wellness for the earth. We will have a few vendors, a food truck or two, informational groups that involve conservation and health/wellness in our local communities. Or just come out for some fun in the sun. Public Event, Free Event.
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Bicycle Safety Program
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Want to brush up on some Bicycle Safety? Get ready for the season? Or get your kiddos ready for riding? Join the Columbia County Sheriffs, Department of Health, and Taconic State Park on this Bicycle Safety Course! Then take what you've learned out onto the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. Don't have a bicycle? Rentals may be available at Bash Bish Bicycle, adjacent to the Park. Public Event, Free of charge.
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
2025 Hudson Valley Heart Walk
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
(845) 764-1156

Location: Walkway Over the Hudson, East Parking: 61 Parker Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY West Parking, 87 Haviland Road, Highland, NY. Contact: Your Hudson Valley Heart Walk Team, (845) 764-1156. email us at valerie.ubriaco@heart.org
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Earth Day Celebration
Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Family-friendly fun with an Earth-friendly focus! Meet us at the Bear Den at 10:30am to make treats for the Black bears. At 11am, the bears will come out of their dens to gobble them up! Nature-related displays & activities, spring-themed animal enrichment, and live animal presentations! Make a wildflower seed ball and other nature crafts at this fun celebration for our planet! No Pre-registration required. Parking! $10 fee
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Chancellor’s Sheep and Wool Showcase
Saturday, April 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Our yearly celebration of fiber arts and artisans returns on Saturday April 26th!The Chancellor's Sheep and Wool Showcase is family-friendly event that features shearing demonstrations, farm animals, and historic reenactments. The artisan craft market offers a little something for everyone at every price point, including brilliant yarns, fleeces, soaps, candles, flowers, and handicraft treasures. One of Clermont's oldest and most popular annual festivals, The Chancellor's Sheep and Wool Showcase has become a springtime tradition for many in the area. With local historians and demonstrators on hand, the traditional Irish music of Tamarack and the nature-inspired music of The Orchestra Now filling the air, and many springtime crafts, historic toys and games, and sheep meet-and-greets for the little ones, there's something for everyone at Sheep and Wool! Please note: The price of this event is $15 per vehicle at the gate. Cash Only. Online reservations are not required. Location: Clermont State Historic Site along the parking lot and stretching all throughout the site. Rain Location: Palatine Park, Germantown.
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Saturday, April 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Pitch In for Parks!
Saturday, April 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up. Don't we all love Thacher State Park? Did you know April is Earth Month? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This is part of series of volunteer events held almost every Saturday during the warm weather months. Come to one or come to all, it makes a difference for the park! No experience needed. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Flying Dragons of Delta Lake State Park
Saturday, April 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
See how dragonflies "SEE". Make a stick dragonfly. Role-play a Butterfly's "tongue". Use a scratch-off craft to simulate a butterfly's life size butterfly- Make a clothespin butterfly craft. Fireflies are Nature's Fireworks. Make a pipe cleaner firefly that glows in the dark. Discover what makes the firefly's fireworks "work". 
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Trees in Bloom
Saturday, April 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Enjoy a presentation on how to identify some key species in spring through flowers, buds, leaf scars and seeds. Then talk a walk to see these species out in the park. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 26 Apr
Nest Builders – EnviroEd Program
Saturday, April 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Yankee Hill Lock, Queen Anne Road, Amsterdam. Join site staff for this great Nest Builders project! Gather materials just like our feathered friends to create an artistic yet functional nest. Discover some of the methods birds use to collect resources and build their unique nests. Family friendly free event.
Registration: Not required
Sat 26 Apr
Amphibians After Hours
Saturday, April 26, 2025 08:00 PM - 09:30 PM
Knox Farm State Park
Vernal pools are hopping with toads, frogs, and salamanders. Engage all your senses to discover these after-hours amphibians. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, April 27, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us in the historic Jay Heritage Gardens for our ongoing volunteer sessions. Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks from weeding and pruning to invasive species management and planting. Community service forms available upon request. Please remember you will be working outside so please plan accordingly. Bring your own water bottle. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Sun 27 Apr
Hike to an Orchard, a Cliff Edge View and an Echo at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 27, 2025 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abby Hedler, Student Conservation Association/Americorps Environmental Educator, for an early spring hike through an historic orchard that once served the grand hotels found at Minnewaska. Planted on a steep hill, the view from the top of the orchard is gorgeous. Continuing along our route, we'll pass through a former hotel golf course to make our way over to Castle Point Carriage Road, which we'll walk until we reach Kempton Ledge. From here, there are wide open views of the Palmaghatt Ravine and Storm King and Breakneck mountains in the distance. Next, we'll make our way down to Hamilton Point Carriage Road, which we'll follow until we reach Echo Rock, another scenic viewpoint where you can actually hear the echo of your own voice. To return, we'll follow Hamilton Point, Millbrook Mountain and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads, swinging back on the opposite side of the Lake to reach the Visitor Center. This walk is mostly along easy-going carriage roads, with an estimated total distance of six-and-a-half miles. Please bring water and food and dress appropriately for the season. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Jay Heritage Center Garden Tours
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Please join us for informational tours of our gardens. Learn about the many families that have lived on the Jay Estate. Please visit our www.jayheritage.center.com for more information. All ages welcome!
Registration: Not required
Sun 27 Apr
Arbor Day Tree Planting
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
To celebrate Earth Day (April 23rd) and Arbor Day (April 25th), come get your hands dirty and give back to your local forest by planting some trees! Join Preserve staff in partnership with Trout Unlimited and help us restore the banks of the Pocantico River and fill gaps in the canopy. More trees means more shade on the water, and that makes for happy fish! Please wear sun protection, bring water to drink, and wear comfortable closed-toed shoes. Long pants tucked into your socks are recommended to prevent exposure to ticks and poison ivy. Shovels and gloves will be provided. Please enter at 25 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591. Do NOT go to the main park entrance. You will be directed to off-street parking from there. In case of bad weather, we will postpone to May 4th; you will be notified by 5 pm the day prior. Max: 50 people. Registration required. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
La Hora del Cuento Bilingüe/Bilingual Story Hour
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. For ages 0-8 with an adult. Understanding of Spanish or English not necessary. Learn what words mean in either language, and read some new books with Project Growing Minds! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Girl Scout Cadette Woodworker badge
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Hop Field Warming Hut. During this girl scout program, we will learn how to properly use basic tools to make a log suet feeder to bring home for our woodpeckers, nuthatches and other suet-loving birds to enjoy. This program will fulfill all the steps for the Woodworker Badge. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
La Hora del Cuento Bilingüe/Bilingual Story Hour
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. For ages 0-8 with an adult. Understanding of Spanish or English not necessary. Learn what words mean in either language, and read some new books with Project Growing Minds! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Girl Scout Cadette Woodworker badge
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Hop Field Warming Hut. During this girl scout program, we will learn how to properly use basic tools to make a log suet feeder to bring home for our woodpeckers, nuthatches and other suet-loving birds to enjoy. This program will fulfill all the steps for the Woodworker Badge. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
La Hora del Cuento Bilingüe/Bilingual Story Hour
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. For ages 0-8 with an adult. Understanding of Spanish or English not necessary. Learn what words mean in either language, and read some new books with Project Growing Minds! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Girl Scout Cadette Woodworker badge
Sunday, April 27, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Hop Field Warming Hut. During this girl scout program, we will learn how to properly use basic tools to make a log suet feeder to bring home for our woodpeckers, nuthatches and other suet-loving birds to enjoy. This program will fulfill all the steps for the Woodworker Badge. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Photo Walk
Sunday, April 27, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Hempstead Lake is a beautiful place to take photos! Bring your own camera and join us for a leisurely photo walk. All participants are encouraged to submit their photos to the Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center's Eye of the Beholder photo contest. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Ronald McDonald Footsteps for Families
Sunday, April 27, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Spring is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River, and support a great cause! Join us for a fun-filled day of walking, fundraising, and community connection to make a difference for families with critically ill children from the Hudson Valley and beyond. Fun for all ages, this event welcomes strollers and leashed dogs—we can't wait to see your photos and videos as we come together for hope and healing. Register: https://www.giveffect.com/campaigns/36635-footsteps-for-families-2025
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Watercolor Faeries, Butterflies & Dragonflies
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 18+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Find that Frog!
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Evangola State Park
Spring is here, and so are the frogs! Vernal pools are hopping with toads and salamanders. Use all your senses to find that frog. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Invasive Species
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
An introduction to invasive species found in WNY from terrestrial to aquatic and learn about the identification and history of our most commonly found invasive species. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Weir Tour.
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave. (Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk/parking lots nearby). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=293.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
TEA & TALK SERIES: Redressing American Fashion: Black Designers in the 19th and 20th Centuries
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
From late 19th-century dressmakers to transitional creatives who helped navigate what an American designer could be, Black people have always been a driving force in American fashion. Elizabeth Way, Associate Curator of Costume at The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, will explore how Black people have significantly shaped American fashion through their style, their labor, and as innovators. Their stories, however, are often left out of the narrative. Examining the lives and careers of just a few, starts to create a more holistic understanding of American fashion and its wider impacts on culture and society. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://TeaAndTalk.Eventbrite.com/
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Watercolor Faeries, Butterflies & Dragonflies
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Accessible program. Ages 18+. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Apr
Watercolor Faeries, Butterflies & Dragonflies
Sunday, April 27, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. Ages 16+. Accessible programs. Join artist Diane Steele in this introduction to watercolor techniques and painting. All supplies will be provided. $20.00 per person cash due upon arrival. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Not required
Mon 28 Apr
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Monday, April 28, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents and experience the "dawn chorus" during the peak of breeding song with an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Rain or shine except in extreme weather, in which case you will receive a cancellation email 2 hours before the scheduled walk. Binocular loans available upon request. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Tue 29 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 29 Apr
Tuesday Trek: High Peter’s Kill and Awosting Falls Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 09:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Come explore the picturesque High Peter's Kill Footpath with Laura Conner, Environmental Educator and Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, on this approximately four-and-a-half-mile hike. We'll start by walking downhill on the High Peter's Kill Footpath, which features a variety of terrain along a cliff edge with numerous, scenic viewpoints. We'll follow this until we reach the Yellow Connector Footpath, which hugs the frothing edges of the Peter's Kill stream. We'll hike up the east spur of the Red Loop Footpath and take a short break at the Peter's Kill restrooms. For our return trip, we'll walk along the easy-going Awosting Falls Carriage Road, past the beautiful and iconic Awosting Falls. This hike does include rocky, narrow and steep sections of trail that may be challenging for some. Participants should bring enough water and food for the outing and wear proper hiking shoes. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 29 Apr
Crafts & Coffee
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Let's talk about sustainability and find out where textile crafts fall into the mix! Join us for a beginner's lesson in crochet after a quick intro to sustainability. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 29 Apr
Vive La France: The French Influence at Staatsburgh
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Join Staatsburgh's curator, Dr. Maria Reynolds, for a one-hour zoom presentation that examines why Staatsburgh resembles a French palace and what this type of décor reveals about the Mills family and their place in society. This talk will explore what Ruth Mills is trying to communicate to her guests with the use of French design and decoration. Special attention will begiven to objects and furniture in the collection that are not usually highlighted or visible during a house tour. Cost: free. Reservations required, Zoom link provided upon registration: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Thu 01 May
First Day of the Month Hike
Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719

Join John Brown Farm for a series of guided winter hikes on the first day of the month from February till May. The free hikes are sponsored by the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and will be guided by Cheryl Craft, a historic interpreter for John Brown Farm. The program will focus mainly on getting outdoors and enjoying a small group hiking experience. There will be opportunities to share local history along the way. All hikes will start at 10am and will require advance registration.

If there is enough interest, the first hike on May 1 will be spring hike to John Thomas Brook in Vermontville

The planned hikes are variable in length and difficulty, though none require any special technical skills. They will require winter gear such as trekking poles, and possibly snowshoes or traction devices depending on trail conditions. Participants will need their own gear. 

Register for hikes by texting or calling the guide at 518-806-9719, preferably in advance, but at least 24 hours before the scheduled hike. You may also search for Events on our Facebook page for additional details.
Registration: Required
Thu 01 May
Opening Day for Visitor Center
Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street. The Visitor Center and Museum will open for the 2025 season on May 1st. Come explore the Pathway to Empire exhibit. Admission is free. Tours of the grounds are available for a nominal fee. Seasonal Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Sunday 1pm-5pm.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
Beginning Birder Walk
Saturday, May 3, 2025 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Interested in birding but don't know where to start or just began and looking to learn more? Join in! We'll share tips & tricks you can use on your journey to this fun, engaging hobby! Binoculars provided Parking! $10 fee Registration is required, Registration through Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beginner-birder-walk-tickets-1251658236479?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day!
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Glimmerglass State Park
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Join us for annual I Love My Park Day! Volunteer for a litter cleanup around the lake or participate in beautifying the Environmental Education and Resiliency Center's gardens. Online registration opens 4/4 at www.ptny.org.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
14th Annual I Love My Park Day at Minnewaska and Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This event is part of more than 100 cleanup, improvement and beautification events happening statewide. I Love My Park Day is an exciting statewide event to improve and enhance New York's State Parks and historic sites and bring visibility to the entire state park system and its needs. Volunteers will clean up park lands and beaches, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species and work on various site improvement projects. Specific events will be listed shortly. Call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752 or the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989 for more information.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Woodlawn Beach State Park
Show your love for Woodlawn Beach State Park for I Love My Park Day by helping cleanup the park! Equipment will be provided. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Wilson-Tuscarora State Park
Join a Park Naturalist on I Love My Park Day for a beach cleanup. Gloves and trash bags will be provided. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
Erie Canal Bicentennial Year Celebration!
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street. We are starting off the Erie Canal Bicentennial with a family friendly fun event! Join us for ribbon cuttings, live music, food, activities, tours, and more! Free event. Free Parking.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Ganondagan State Historic Site
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. After I Love My Park Day activities, meet at Seneca Art & Culture Center. Hike Earth Is Our Mother Trail to Great Oak Trail, turn around at overlook, then return to Center via Great Oak Trail. Approximately 1 mile. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Whirlpool State Park
Join us to get Whirlpool State Park ready for the upcoming season during I Love My Park Day! Equipment will be provided. Registration Required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Caumsett 5k Run/Walk
Sunday, May 4, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Registration: Not required
Sun 04 May
Indoor Planting
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Learn how to grow herbs, vegetables, and other plants without needing a yard! Container planting is a beautiful and useful way to bring life into your home, office, or other indoor space. This program is part of our spring monthly gardening series. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Fri 09 May
Wildflowers and Watercolors
Friday, May 9, 2025 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Wilson-Tuscarora State Park
Go for a walk searching for spring ephemerals before coming back to create a watercolor painting of the flowers you saw! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
World Bird Migration Day- PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, May 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Let’s Garden!
Saturday, May 10, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Help us plant our back garden! This program is perfect for anyone interested in volunteerism, gardening, or the benefits of native plants. Participants are encouraged to bring their own gardening gloves. Capacity is 10 individuals. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
World Bird Migration Day- Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Delta Lake is for the Birds- Identify some of the birds that live at Delta Lake without even seeing them. Make a bird glider. Play a feather matching game- win an iridescent turkey feather. Study migration maps to see where birds, like Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, go in the winter and when to expect them back. Be ready for their return by making a Hummingbird feeder. 
Registration: Not required
Thu 15 May
Caumsett Short Films Premiere
Thursday, May 15, 2025 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
The premiere screening of three new documentaries about Caumsett's history with reception before films.
Registration: Not required
Fri 16 May
Flowers, Bugs, and Birds, Oh My!
Friday, May 16, 2025 03:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Joseph Davis State Park
Join us as we traverse the trails in Joseph Davis State Park in search of things that pique our interest! Flowers, insects and birds galore – we won't be short anything to explore! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Glimmerglass Triathlon
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Glimmerglass State Park
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Living with Wildlife
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Meet Long Island native animals and learn conservation strategies for all ages.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
A Stroll in DeVeaux Woods
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
DeVeaux Woods State Park
A stroll through DeVeaux Woods – noticing nature and learning a bit of history about DeVeaux. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Gardening for Birds and Butterflies
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Evangola State Park
Share your yard with songbirds, butterflies, and more by planting flowers and shrubs beneficial to our wildlife. This is an indoor presentation followed by planting your own seeds to take home. Adults only. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
Me & You Music with Keri Wirth (May Session)
Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Interactive music program with Keri Wirth for infants-5 years.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Spring Wreathmaking
Saturday, May 24, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Come showcase the beauty of flowers as well as your creativity by joining us for our first ever Spring Wreath Making program. Program capacity is 10 people. Supplies will be provided. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, May 24, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Go Fish at Delta Lake State Park- Discover what fish live in Delta Lake. Make a fish mobile. Make a Delta Lake food Chain. Learn what likes to go fishing in the Delta Lake besides us. Make a habitat puzzle. An inside introduction to fishing will be offered. Learn about The NY fish hatchery just down the road. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Waking Up Wildflowers – EnviroEd Program
Saturday, May 24, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street. Join site staff for a walk along the old canal towpath to seek out and "wake up" wildflowers growing along our trails. See if you can find and identify some of these spring flowers. Free and open to all ages.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Hike Through History
Saturday, May 24, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Discover the important people and events that created and protected our nation's oldest state park in this guided walk. Registration available on Eventbrite.com but not required.
Registration: Required
Sun 25 May
Hike Through History
Sunday, May 25, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Discover the important people and events that created and protected our nation's oldest state park in this guided walk. Registration available on Eventbrite.com but not required.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Memorial Day Bald Eagle Walk
Monday, May 26, 2025 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Evangola State Park
Enjoy a leisurely walk exploring the park and looking for bald eagles on Memorial Day! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 27 May
Crafts & Coffee: Floral Arrangements
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
To celebrate the beauty of spring, join us for a flower foraging walk around the park followed by the opportunity to make your own floral arrangement! To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 27 May
Dressing the Revolutionary Lady
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Enders House, Schoharie Street. Join us as Caitlin Sheldon discusses and demonstrates the design and clothing style of a refined lady in the American Revolutionary period. Sheldon is a Saratoga Springs Public Library librarian and historical costumer who draws inspiration from the past. The self-taught costumer uses historical images of people from the past to fuel the ornate outfits she recreates. This passion has led to research that provides a deeper understanding of trends in fashion. This program will be preceded by a short Friends of Schoharie Crossing meeting. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
Registration: Not required
Wed 28 May
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Wed 28 May
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Frogs and Snakes and Turtles- Oh My!
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Do you know what the NY State reptile is? Learn to identify frogs by their nightly calls. Start an artificial frog collection. Help frogs get to their Delta Lake home safely in a " Leap Frog" game. What makes Reptiles cool at Delta Lake. Learn about our cold-blooded neighbors and how you can stay "cool headed" if you meet one. Paint different skin patterns on realistic wooden snakes. Play Turtle Hide and seek with Delta Lake paper turtles you craft so the turtle's head goes in and out of its shell just like a real turtle. 
Registration: Not required
Fri 30 May
TINY TOTS: Gardening
Friday, May 30, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through activities, story times, and crafts. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Race The Lake Marathon
Saturday, May 31, 2025
Glimmerglass State Park
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Leave No Trash Trek
Saturday, May 31, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Woodlawn Beach State Park
This sandy adventure combines strolling along the shore with a Park Naturalist while scooping up trash to keep the beach looking fabulous. Volunteers must be 18+ to participate or need a parent's/guardian's supervision. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 31 May
Ribbit, Slither, Croak
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Discover snakes, turtles, frogs and salamanders as we explore the ponds and forest at Knox Farm. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Forest Bathing
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
With the guidance of certified forest therapy guide Linda Lombardo, we invite you to join us as we immerse ourselves in nature and practice the art of forest bathing. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Become a Junior Archeologist!
Saturday, May 31, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
An Introduction to the History of Delta Lake State Park- Discover the history of the people who lived in the area of Delta Lake State Park long ago. Explore artifacts of the Native Americans who hunted and fished here in the summers. Go on an archeology dig to find arrowheads left behind. Study pictures and postcards of the people of Delta Village who were here before Delta Dam. Make a picture postcard to mail to friends about your visit to Delta Lake State Park. 
Registration: Not required
Sun 01 Jun
Meadow Bird Meander
Sunday, June 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Discover the feathery friends from the meadows at Knox Farm. Identify and observe meadow birds on a nature walk throughout the park. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 01 Jun
Flower Frenzy
Sunday, June 1, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
It's flower season! Come learn all about flowers through activities, including a flower dissection, followed by a scavenger hunt to uncover all the floral beauty around HLSP! To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 04 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Rocks with Geology!
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Become a Junior Paleontologist!- Explore the geological history of the Delta Lake Area. Create your own sand art. Go on a Fossil Dig and take-home real fossils. Dinosaurs lived in New York State millions of years ago. Discover the fossil tracks that they left behind. Create your own dinosaur tracks. study the fossils of the Ice Age animals who were here in the Delta Lake area 10,000 years ago. Make a Cave Painting telling a story of Ice Age Animals.
Registration: Not required
Sat 07 Jun
National Trails Day: Length of the Gorge
Saturday, June 7, 2025 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Celebrate the 32nd National Trails Day with our annual Length of the Gorge Hike. Traverse the Niagara Gorge and follow the same path Niagara Falls took over the course of ~12,000 years as we hike from where it started to where it sits today! Ages 8 and older. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 7, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 07 Jun
Grow It. Make It. Eat It.
Saturday, June 7, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Our spring monthly gardening series comes to a close through a discussion on how to use the crops we've grown and participating in a recipe exchange! To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, June 7, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Watkins Glen State Park
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at the Main Entrance on North Franklin Street. Begin on the Gorge Trail, hike to Mile Point Bridge, then hike back on the South Rim Trail. Hike over the Suspension Bridge to North Rim Trail. Return to the Main Entrance. Approximately 2 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Sat 07 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Become a Junior Archeologist!
Saturday, June 7, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
An Introduction to the History of Delta Lake State Park- Discover the history of the people who lived in the area of Delta Lake State Park long ago. Explore artifacts of the Native Americans who hunted and fished here in the summers. Go on an archeology dig to find arrowheads left behind. Study pictures and postcards of the people of Delta Village who were here before Delta Dam. Make a picture postcard to mail to friends about your visit to Delta Lake State Park. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 07 Jun
Schoellkopf Anniversary Walk
Saturday, June 7, 2025 03:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Stop in for a short presentation on the history behind the rise of the Schoellkopf Power Station and it's collapse on June 7th, 1956. Then join our educators on a walk over to the ruins that remain in the gorge! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 08 Jun
Tree Exploration with Vincent Simeone, Director, Planting Fields Arboretum
Sunday, June 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Guided walk with a free seedling for participants.
Registration: Not required
Sun 08 Jun
Pond Explorers
Sunday, June 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Experience the unique opportunity of seining in Hempstead Lake State Park's McDonald Pond! Waders will be provided. Please meet in parking Field 4. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sun 08 Jun
Me & You Music with Keri Wirth (June Session)
Sunday, June 8, 2025 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Interactive music program with Keri Wirth for infants-5 years.
Registration: Not required
Wed 11 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Wed 11 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Go Fish at Delta Lake State Park
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Discover what fish live in Delta Lake. Make a fish mobile. Make a Delta Lake food chain. Learn what likes to go fishing in Delta Lake besides us. Make a habitat puzzle. An inside introduction to fishing will be offered. Learn about The NY fish hatchery just down the road. 
Registration: Not required
Fri 13 Jun
TINY TOTS: Butterflies
Friday, June 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through activities, story times, and crafts. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 14, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 14 Jun
Fire Making 101
Saturday, June 14, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Fort Niagara State Park
Learn the basics of how to make a fire with a park naturalist in this hands-on program. Participants will get a chance to use a ferrocerium rod, our modern-day flint and steel, to make their own fire. For ages 8 and up. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake is for the Birds
Saturday, June 14, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
 What is the NY State Bird? Meet the Bluebird! Identify some of the birds that live at Delta Lake without even seeing them. Make a bird glider. Play a feather matching game- win an iridescent turkey feather. Make a Bird Identification Wheel to more easily ID the birds you see at Delta Lake State Park. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 14 Jun
Hike Through History
Saturday, June 14, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Discover the important people and events that created and protected our nation's oldest state park in this guided walk. Registration available on Eventbrite.com but not required.
Registration: Required
Sun 15 Jun
Leave No Trash Trek – Father’s Day Edition
Sunday, June 15, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Woodlawn Beach State Park
This sandy adventure combines strolling along the shore with a Park Naturalist while scooping up trash to keep the beach looking fabulous. Volunteers must be 18+ to participate or need a parent's/guardian's supervision. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 18 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell you Delta lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Wed 18 Jun
Slow Stroll
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Take a leisurely guided stroll with a focus on wellness. Adults only. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 18 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Flying Dragons of Delta Lake State Park
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
See how dragonflies "SEE". Make a stick dragonfly. Role-play a Butterfly's "tongue". Use a scratch-off craft to simulate a butterfly's life size butterfly- Make a clothespin butterfly craft. Fireflies are Nature's Fireworks. Make a pipe cleaner firefly that glows in the dark. Discover what makes the firefly's fireworks "work".
Registration: Not required
Wed 18 Jun
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Fri 20 Jun
Summer Solstice Tails on Trails
Friday, June 20, 2025 05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Bring your furry friend on this casual walk to enjoy the longest day of the year! It is not necessary to have a dog to participate, however, all dogs must be up to date on immunizations, leashed, and under control. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 21, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
Solstice Magic Show
Saturday, June 21, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
Chris Homer's family-friendly magic performance.
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
To the Rapids and Back
Saturday, June 21, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Devil's Hole State Park
Join an educator for a hike to the north end of Trail 6 at the very bottom of the Niagara Gorge. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Jun
Insect Pinning
Saturday, June 21, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Bring your insect collection to the next level by learning how to preserve insects through pinning. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Make Tracks to Delta Lake!
Saturday, June 21, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
What is the NY State mammal? Check out Delta Dam within view of the park. Build a model of a beaver dam. What makes a mammal?  Explore the Furs and Tracks of just some of the Mammals of Delta Lake State Park. Make a clay track of a mammal to take home. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
Jewels of the Sky
Saturday, June 21, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Evangola State Park
On this guided walk we will search for ebony jewelwings and tiger swallowtails as well as other dragonflies and butterflies that may be in flight. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Jun
Hike Through History
Saturday, June 21, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Discover the important people and events that created and protected our nation's oldest state park in this guided walk. Registration available on Eventbrite.com but not required.
Registration: Required
Sun 22 Jun
Pride in the Park
Sunday, June 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Happy Pride Month! Celebrate Pride at the park with a story time and hands on activity. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 24 Jun
Pride Walk at the Falls
Tuesday, June 24, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Join an educator on a walk over to Luna Island on the 14th anniversary of the Marriage Equality Act being passed in New York State! Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Tue 24 Jun
Meditative Craft Night
Tuesday, June 24, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Unwind with us! We'll watch the sun set on the park as we create meditative zentangle art. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Wed 25 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smokey Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake State Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Wed 25 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program- Delta Lake Frogs and Snakes and Turtles- Oh My!
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Do you know what the NY State reptile is? Learn to identify frogs by their nightly calls. Start an artificial frog collection. Help frogs get to their Delta Lake home safely in a "Leap Frog" game. What makes Reptiles cool at Delta Lake? Learn about our cold-blooded neighbors and how you can stay "cool headed" if you meet one. Paint different skin patterns on realistic wooden snakes. Play Turtle Hide and Seek with Delta Lake paper turtles you craft so the turtle's head goes in and out of its shell just like a real turtle. 
Registration: Not required
Wed 25 Jun
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Fri 27 Jun
TINY TOTS: Under the Sea
Friday, June 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hempstead Lake State Park
Explore the natural world around us. These programs will connect children and their parents with nature through activities, story times, and crafts. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
PEAK- Leave No Trace Program for Kids
Saturday, June 28, 2025 10:00 AM
Delta Lake State Park
Conducted by LNT Certified Trainer Susan Jones Graff. Know the rules of the Park. Make a pet rock with a leash. Make a UV bead bracelet to show if you need sunscreen protection. Make a scratch and sniff chart and learn how far away animals like racoons can smell your Delta Lake picnic. Take the Smoke Bear pledge- Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires! Make a reusable trash bag to take on your Delta Lake state Park adventures. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 28 Jun
Watercolor at DeVeaux
Saturday, June 28, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
DeVeaux Woods State Park
Enjoy a guided walk through DeVeaux Woods in seek of inspiration for a watercolor painting. All materials provided. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
Delta Lake State Park Nature Program
Saturday, June 28, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Delta Lake State Park
Botany of Delta Lake State Park- What's in a Rose?- The NY State Flower- Learn the parts of a flower. Decorate a small flower pot. Plant seeds in your pot to start a butterfly garden. 
Registration: Not required
Sat 28 Jun
Soap Making
Saturday, June 28, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Evangola State Park
Unleash your inner artisan at the Evangola Nature Center! Make your own soap using a glycerin soap base and fun molds. For ages 8 and up with parent/guardian supervision. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
Hike Through History
Saturday, June 28, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Niagara Falls State Park
Discover the important people and events that created and protected our nation's oldest state park in this guided walk. Registration available on Eventbrite.com but not required.
Registration: Required
Wed 02 Jul
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Thu 03 Jul
Fireworks Display at Canadarago Lake
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Canadarago State Marine Park
Registration: Not required
Fri 04 Jul
Concert and Fireworks
Friday, July 4, 2025 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Glimmerglass State Park
Concert 7pm-9pm
Fireworks at 9pm/dusk
Registration: Not required
Sat 05 Jul
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, July 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fillmore Glen State Park
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at the main parking lot near the pavilion. The hike will start on the Gorge Trail and continue until connecting with the South Rim Trail. The hike will return along the South Rim Trail to the parking lot. Approximately 2.25 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Wed 09 Jul
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Wed 16 Jul
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Jul
The Bronze Men: the 369th Infantry Regiment in World War I
Saturday, July 19, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
National Purple Heart Hall of Honor
The Hall of Honor will show the PBS documentary about the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-black regiment that served during World War I. The regiment, originally the 15th New York National Guard served for 191 in combat, longer than any other American unit during the War. Surviving members were interviewed during the 1970's and tell their stories in this documentary.
Registration: Not required
Wed 23 Jul
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Wed 30 Jul
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Sat 02 Aug
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, August 2, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Stony Brook State Park
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at the Gorge Trail entrance near the swimming area in the Lower Park. Hike out on Gorge Trail and back on the West Rim Trail. Approximately 1.75 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Wed 06 Aug
Yoga in the Walled Garden
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
8-week summer series with instructor Lisa Kasper.
Registration: Not required
Fri 15 Aug
Bat Bonanza!
Friday, August 15, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Bring a flashlight and join educators from Trailside Museums & Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park for a free family-friendly educational program about Bats! Learn about the fascinating nocturnal lives of local bats, use our bat detector to identify bats as they fly overhead, and have some nighttime fun with bat-themed crafts and games! Participants will meet in front of the Bear Mountain Inn. Registration is Required To register visit our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/trailside-museums-zoo-104671439831. For more information, email TrailsideEducation@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Required
Fri 29 Aug
Legends of the Hudson Valley: A Night Walk
Friday, August 29, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Bring a flashlight and join a Trailside Museums and Zoo educator for a sundown walk around Hessian Lake at Bear Mountain State Park! Learn about the Hudson Valley's local folktales and legends during this saunter under the stars! Participants will meet Trailside Zoo's staff in front of the Bear Mountain Inn. Registration is required for this program Registration is Required To register visit our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/trailside-museums-zoo-104671439831. For more information, email TrailsideEducation@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Required
Sat 06 Sep
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, September 6, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Allan H. Treman State Marine Park
(607) 272-1460

All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. A nearly full moon hike! Meet at the marina parking lot. The full moon hike will follow the level trail beside the water. Enjoy views of the full moon over Cayuga Inlet. Approximately 1 mile. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Sat 13 Sep
Girl Scouts Love NY State Parks
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Glimmerglass State Park
Registration: Not required
Sat 04 Oct
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Catharine Valley Trail
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at the parking area off South Genesee Street in the Village of Montour Falls. We will hike the Loop Trail portion of the Catherine Valley Trail and then continue 1 mile on the Catherine Valley Trail until we reach Cook Street in Montour Falls. We will then hike back to the parking area. Approximately 3.3 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Sat 11 Oct
Hyde Hall Covered Bridge 200-year Bicentennial Anniversary
Saturday, October 11, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Glimmerglass State Park
Oldest Wooded Covered Bridge in America (1825-2025)
Registration: Not required
Sat 01 Nov
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, November 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Robert H. Treman State Park
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at the Upper Entrance parking lot by the Old Mill. The hike will begin on the Rim Trail and will continue to the Lower Park. We will return to the Upper Entrance via the Gorge Trail. Approximately 4.5 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required
Sat 06 Dec
First Saturday Hikes in the Finger Lakes Region
Saturday, December 6, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Black Diamond Trail
All ages are welcome as we get some exercise, build community, and learn a bit more about each park's history, geology, and unique natural history. First Saturday Hikes are free to join, and no registration is required. For questions about hike locations, difficulty, or other related questions, please email FingerLakesEducation@parks.ny.gov. Meet at the Jacksonville Road parking lot. The hike will go out 2 ½ miles on the Black Diamond Trail, then turn around and return to the parking lot. Approximately 5 miles. Hike length and exact route is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Registration: Not required