Outdoor Activities
New York's Abundant Recreational Opportunities, from High Adventure to a Quiet Connection with Nature
Our 20 Most Recent
Recreation Newsletters
Enjoy New York's Scenic and Rich Outdoors
New York's breathtaking natural resources are unique, abundant, and open to everyone. The opportunities abound, from hunting and fishing, to hiking and rock climbing, swimming and boating, or simply relaxing in a tent under the stars. Find exciting state lands you can visit across New York.
DEC plays a vital role in both protecting our natural resources and providing opportunities for people to enjoy them. We are making critical upgrades to State campgrounds and facilities and we encourage more New Yorkers and visitors to connect with nature and outdoor recreation.
News on Your Favorite Topics
Use the box to the right to sign up for news on fishing, hunting, hiking, and other outdoor and environmental topics of interest emailed directly to you.
UPDATED! Find current conditions for the Adirondacks (updated weekly) and the Catskills (updated monthly).
Now available:
- Applications for Annual Pheasant Release Program (through March 25)
- Anglers: volunteer for the Striped Bass Cooperative Anglers Program
- Circle Hook Requirement for 2021 Recreational Striped Bass Fishing Season (comments accepted through March 8)
- Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Virtual BOW in the SNOW Workshops - February 4-25
Looking to try ice fishing? Save time with the convenience of purchasing your fishing and hunting license on-line now.
Adventure NY
Adventure NY is a multi-year outdoor recreation campaign launched in 2017 to connect more New York families and visitors to the great outdoors. This includes $50 million to improve public access to state land and water, upgrade campgrounds and facilities, and increase public awareness and information of all the outdoor recreation opportunities available in New York State. Look for upcoming news on our new bird trail.
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During COVID-19, Play Smart, Play Safe, Play Local and take advantage of our #Adventure at Home programs and ideas.
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Upcoming Recreational Events
For a complete list of DEC events, see our full events calendar.
This Month's Recreational Events | See all recreational events
Get Ready for Your Winter Adventures
Look Here for Seasonal Recreation Information
- XC ski and snowshoe trails on NY state lands
- Give ice fishing a try
- Ice Fishing Regulations - Statewide Fishing Regulations
- View a summary of hunting seasons open now (PDF)
- Buy a fishing or hunting license online here
- Prepare for winter hiking with these safety tips, and find some great winter hikes