Summer Nature Exploration Activities from NYS DEC



Fun ways to explore nature this summer

Fun ways to explore nature this summer

We just got our NYS DEC newsletter and it is chock-full of fun things to keep your family busy and entertained this summer.

Here is what they have to offer:

Kids & Conservation
Get off the video games and social media by checking out their Conservationist for Kids 50 outdoor activities (PDF) for all ages and levels that are perfect for the whole family. There is a list of 51 outdoor activities to check off, lists on preparing to go outside and survival needs, and a great page of resources you can check out. The resources include fishing, biking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking & boating, camping, learning and exploring, plus accessible recreation areas.

Fishing Indoors
Join Bassador, a charming cartoon fish, at the kids' Angler Academy. Turn your tub into an indoor fishing spot, download coloring pages, craft some fish and more.


I Bird NY
The New York State Birding Trail will be launched Summer 2021, with locations in every region of the state to be announced by 2022. DEC shows you how to get started. It also has a Birding Challenge, Birding events, where to find birds, videos and webcams. The bird lovers in your family are sure to love this.

Bingo
Discover Nature Bingo cards are offered in English, Spanish and Mandarin. Download these and get the fun started.

Apps
You can keep track of your nature discoveries and adventures with these apps: iNaturalist, Merlin, or eBird

Resources for fun
Last, but not least, check out their caregiver, parent and educator resources webpage while at home. Rainy day? Print the Sustainable Living coloring pages (PDF). 

Courtesy of NYS DEC



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • DEC Summer Camps Registration Opens March 23, 2025

    Families are encouraged to register early for camps

    Now in its 78th year, the DEC Summer Camps program offers week-long adventures in conservation education for children ages 11 to 17. DEC operates four residential camps for kids. read more »
  • Beat the Winter Blues

    Decorating tips to add some cheer to your home

    With colder temperatures and dreary skies, it can be easy to feel a touch of the winter blues. read more »
  • Fun Frozen Dog Treats

    Your pooch will love these tasty morsels

    Homemade dog treats that are easy to make with organic ingredients so you can show your pets some love while feeling confident that you aren’t putting their health in jeopardy. read more »
  • Find Prosperity in 2025 with Black-Eyed Peas

    A Southern delight you can enjoy all year

    Step into Southern tradition with black-eyed peas, which are considered a good luck charm for the new year. read more »
  • Cowboy Caviar

    Easy and healthy snack for your family

    If you’re looking for a new dip for your next get-together and tired of the same boring salsas and layered dips, this Cowboy Caviar may quickly become a family favorite. read more »
  • Add Savory Spice to Game Day Celebrations

    Get your hosting game on with this recipe

    Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat. read more »
  • Simplify Family Dinner with a One-Pot Soup

    A great time-saving recipe everyone will love

    After a busy season of groups and gatherings, sometimes a new year calls for easy, filling meals you can enjoy with your nearest and dearest. read more »
  • A Chilly Day Dish with a Kick

    Perfect for game day or any time

    This Chipotle Veggie Chili is simple to make, needing just one pot throughout the entire cooking process. It simmers for about 25 minutes while you unwind from a long day. read more »
  • 10 health recommendations for the new year

    Looking to improve your health in 2025 and beyond? Check out these recommendations from the American Medical Association. read more »
  • Savory Meets Spicy

    A hot recipe for those cold nights

    Football watch parties, family dinners and cold days that call for warm meals are all perfect occasions for a hearty bowl of this Barbecue Chili. read more »