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Celebrating Nature for All: A Day of Fun and Accessibility Across New York

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the annual “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” will take place on Saturday, June 8. This event, hosted at more than 20 locations across New York State, aims to unite people of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds for a day filled with healthy, family-friendly outdoor activities. The initiative underscores New York State’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in its public lands and recreation areas.

Embracing Diversity and Accessibility in the Outdoors

Governor Hochul emphasized the state’s dedication to making outdoor spaces welcoming to everyone: “We want New Yorkers to know that no matter what their background or ability, New York State resources are shared by all.” The event, organized in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, aims to broaden the diversity of public land users and ensure equitable access to outdoor activities.

Activities for Everyone

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of introductory-level outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, nature walks, birding, archery, camping, and paddling. Each location will feature accessible activities and adaptive equipment demonstrations, including trail and beach mobility aids and arm supports for fishing.

Special Events and Locations

Most events will run from 10 AM to 2 PM, with some exceptions. For instance, the Catskill Visitor Center event will last until 4 PM as part of the Catskills Great Outdoor Expo. Mendon Ponds Park in Pittsford will host activities from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, coinciding with the Adirondack Outdoor Expo. Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center and Norrie Point Environmental Education Center will also have extended hours.

Support and Encouragement from State Officials

State officials expressed their support for the event:

• Kimberly Hill Ridley, New York State Chief Disability Officer: “I encourage New Yorkers with disabilities and their families and friends to join us on June 8. There are so many accessible and inclusive features at our state parks and lands.”
• Sean Mahar, Interim Commissioner of DEC: “‘Get Outdoors & Get Together Day’ is an opportunity for families and visitors of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in outdoor events on public lands.”
• Kerri Neifeld, OPWDD Commissioner: “There is nothing better than seeing people of all abilities having fun together and enjoying the inclusive and accessible activities we are so fortunate to have here in New York State.”
• Randy Simons, New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore: “Parks are natural gathering places for friends and family, and we are committed to ensuring that all people feel welcome at our parks.”
• Viviana DeCohen, Commissioner of the Department of Veterans’ Services: “This event recognizes the immense benefits of spending time in nature, particularly for our Veterans and their families.”

Comprehensive Programs Across the State

Events will be hosted at various locations, including:

• DEC-Led Programs: Ausable Point Campground, Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, and more.
• State Parks-Led Programs: Allegany State Park, Chenango Valley State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, and others.

Each location will offer unique activities, including camping basics, birdwatching, hiking, and outdoor safety lessons. Select locations will feature I Fish NY catch-and-release clinics, introductory paddling, and archery.

A Day to Explore and Learn

All locations will provide wheelchair-accessible features, including restrooms and recreation opportunities. Participants are encouraged to contact event coordinators for accommodation requests and to learn about the adaptive equipment available.

For more information, visit the DEC website at dec.ny.gov and the State Parks website at parks.ny.gov. Join the celebration and explore New York’s great outdoors in a welcoming and inclusive environment.