The Beat

Free Fishing Days Support the Governor's “Get Offline, Get Outside” Initiative

Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the 2026 dates for Free Fishing Days in New York. The requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during the following six days in 2026: February 14–15, June 27–28, September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day).

Current Passholders Can Renew Online and Save for the Season 

Order by December 14 to Have in Time for the Holidays 

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced that the 2026 Empire Pass is now available for purchase. The $80 Empire Pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to New York State Parks, state boat launch sites, arboretums, park preserves and Department of Environmental Conservation Forest preserves.

Freshwater Fishing License Not Required on National Hunting and Fishing Day, Sept. 27, 2025

New Yorkers Encouraged to “Get Offline, Get Outside” and Try Freshwater Fishing at No Cost

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced Sept. 27 will mark the next Free Fishing Day in New York State.

New Playground, Larger Picnic Area, New Facilities Will Make the Park More Accessible and Enjoyable for All Visitors

Project Supports Governor’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” Initiative to Encourage Outdoor Recreation

Renderings Available Here

Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that a $25 million rehabilitation project will start this year at the 115-year-old Bear Mountain State Park in Rockland and Orange counties in the Hudson Valley. The project will create a new accessible playground, expand picnic areas, and add public restrooms, while updating crucial infrastructure.

Albany, NY - The Barrens Birding Blitz is an annual community event held at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve (APBP), taking place on Saturday, September 20, 2025 during the peak of fall bird migration. This friendly competition is a full day event, with teams birding and counting the species they see and hear throughout the preserve from 6 AM to 12 PM. The event will culminate in an awards ceremony and catered lunch in the APBP Discovery Center at 12:30 PM. Birdwatchers of all skill levels are invited to participate, from novice to expert. Teams will compete to spot and identify as many species as possible in the time allotted.

Volunteers Will Celebrate and Enhance State Properties in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks on Sept. 6, 2025

Governor Urges New Yorkers To Engage In Activities at Their Local Parks and Recreational Areas

Activities Promote State’s ‘Get Offline, Get Outside’ and ‘Love Our New York Lands’ Campaigns

Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers across the state to give back and enjoy the outdoors in the spirit of Adirondack and Catskill Park Day on Saturday, Sept. 6. The Governor urges New Yorkers to “Get Offline, Get Outside” by participating in service projects at their local parks and recreational areas, including those focused on the preservation and protection of the Adirondack and Catskill Parks, by conserving and enhancing lands for the enjoyment of all New Yorkers.

25 Activities Celebrating 25 Years of #RWFallFest

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the 25^th annual Fall Festival at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Cheektowaga on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to spend the day enjoying nature activities, exhibits, guided walks, live animals, and more. The festival is free and open to the public.

Provides Increased Recreational Opportunities and Protection of Natural Resources

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the addition of 291 acres to Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County, helping conserve an important section in the northern Shawangunk Mountains. The protection of these lands as part of the New York State Park system provides an opportunity to safeguard natural resources and represents a valuable addition for accessibility and future recreational improvements.

Acquisition of 900 Acres Permanently Protects Critical Catskill Forest Preserve Habitat and Water Quality and Supports Governor’s ‘30x30’ Initiative

Blue Hole Safety Upgrades Improve Visitor Experience and Promote Sustainable Use of Natural Resources 

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced two milestones that will both enhance recreational access for New Yorkers and ensure long-term protections in unique and ecologically important locations in the Catskill Forest Preserve. New York State acquired 900 acres in Ulster County that form the largest addition to the Catskill Forest Preserve since 2011 and will help ensure the long-term protection of drinking water in the Ashokan Reservoir watershed. In addition, expansive upgrades at the Peekamoose Blue Hole are now complete, helping enhance safety and accessibility to the popular attraction in the town of Denning, Ulster County.

Sky Flyer Zipline, Veterans’ Memorial Highway, Inline Skating Set to Open Summer Season

Lake Placid, N.Y. (May 15, 2025) – The New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority (Olympic Authority) is launching its summer and fall activities season with the opening of the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway on Friday, May 16. Additional early-season offerings include the Sky Flyer Zipline that opens on May 15, Discover Biathlon presented by Ariens at Mt Van Hoevenberg starting May 24 and the return of inline skating at the James C. Sheffield Speed Skating Oval on May 23.