More Virtual Tours Now Available!

New York State now offers 93 virtual tours of state campgrounds and select parks to provide visitors a sample of the setting and amenities at each location.  These 360° views include both moving "spins" and still images of scenic spots, popular attractions and features such as trails, beaches and pools, boat launches, pavilions, playgrounds, golf courses and more. Before your next adventure, be sure to check these out! Virtual Tours

The Holiday Lights Spectacular presented by the NYCB Family of Banks will return to the West End of Jones Beach in November, bringing back a Long Island holiday tradition last held in the park in 2007. Partnering with entertainment giant Live Nation, the Holiday Lights Spectacular is a 2.5-mile drive offering visitors the opportunity to view more than 150 animated and synchronized light displays that will create a colorful and marvelous holiday experience.
 

The Holiday Lights Spectacular will begin on Thursday, November 20 and run through Sunday, January 4. Visitors can enjoy the display each day from dusk until 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Read More

Naturally carbonated mineral springs have attracted visitors to Saratoga Springs for generations.

Now the Karista Spring, a long dormant iron-infused mineral spring in the historic Vale of Springs area of the park, is flowing once again in a fountain covered by a new pavilion near the Geyser Creek.  The project to reopen the spring, construct the replica pavilion and add interpretive signage, was completed through a public-private partnership involving the Friends of Saratoga Spa State Park, generous contributions from The Adirondack Trust Company and Allerdice Building Supply, and the State Park's staff. 
 

The project is a continuation of the work begun in 2012 to revitalize the mineral springs in celebration of the historic park's centennial.  The Regional State Park Commission raised funds to restore the Hayes Spring and rehabilitate the pavilions and pathways along the Geyser Creek. The Friends are currently advancing a project to restore the Ferndell Trail and to replace an historic fountain for the State Seal spring. View the park map, which includes its 12 mineral springs. 

How long have you been volunteering at this location and how did you get involved?

I've been volunteering for 15 years. I actually became aware of the site over 30 years ago when I was involved in an event - Celtic Day in the Park - which became an annual event for over 25 years. Meetings were held at Staatsburgh and I became interested in the house, so when I retired I became a volunteer.

Describe a recent project, program or initiative that you participated in for the site:

I have volunteered as a docent and have been transcribing newspaper items from the early 1920's from handwritten notes recently which is very interesting.

What is your favorite thing to do at Staatsburgh?

I enjoy being a first-person interpreter and really like interacting with the children for the  Holiday Whodunit in December.

What would you suggest to others who might want to get more involved in helping out at their favorite state park or historic site?

I think that if local people would take a tour of the house they would become interested and be willing to help out.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? I've enjoyed working with the staff over the years.