Otsego Outdoors

Get the Kids Out: Family Hike at Gilbert Lake State Park
2023-06-19 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY, 13796, United States
Join OCCA educator Shelby MacLeish for a family hike at Gilbert Lake State Park. We will meet at the trailhead on Cabin Colony Road before hitting the trail. Our hike will take us to ponds, a beaver lodge and through thick forest, great for shade on a sunny afternoon. We will practice tree identification, hunt for local wildlife, and get to know the flora and fauna of Gilbert Lake State Park.
Gilbert Lake State Park is located at 18 CCC Road, Laurens, NY 13796. This event is free and open to anyone. Please register at https://occainfo.org/calendar/get-the-kids-out-gilbert-lake-state-park/

If you have questions, contact Shelby MacLeish at 607-547-4488 or via email at coordinator@occainfo.org

Father's Day Fishing Clinic with Trout Unlimited
2023-06-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Neahwa Park, Bertus Lauren Drive, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
Come join the Dave Brandt Chapter of Trout Unlimited at Hodges Pond in Neahwa Park for a fun fishing derby. Free registration upon arrival. Rain or shine

Trail Volunteer Training/Work Day at Basswood
2023-06-17 09:00 - 12:00 | Basswood Pond State Forest, 500 Conservation Road, Burlington, NY, 13315, United States
Let’s get the trails at Basswood Pond State Forest ready for the summer. Join OCCA for a hands-on volunteer training. We will be working to make a path through the clear cut. Please sign up using this form
Meet at the Basswood Pond State Forest parking lot on Jacobs Road the north side of the state forest.
Afterward, volunteers will have the option to adopt a portion of state forest trails to care for throughout the season.

Upper Susquehanna River Historic Sojourn
2023-06-17 07:00 - 17:00 | NY
Join the Unadilla Historical Association for a leisurely canoe trip on the Susquehanna River from Wells Bridge to Sidney featuring speakers on river ecology, river stewardship, Native American waterways, recreational river trails and much, much more. Breakfast, Lunch at Muddy River Brewery, backpack, river trail markers provided.
The cost is $50 per person, and the trip will be limited to 40 people.
To take part, email sginkusa@gmail or Unadillahistorical@yahoo.com for a itinerary map, reservation form and free Awestruck drink card.

Read the Daily Star article about the event

Homeschool Nature Hike at Emmons Pond Bog
2023-06-16 12:00 - 13:30 | Emmons Pond Bog Preserve, 2028 White Hill Road, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
For some of you this hike may be a repeat but that’s okay because now we can see what the trail looks like in early summer. Join OCCA to explore the trail along the bog, stopping to identify trees, play games and watch for birds. Note we will be meeting on the third Friday in June due to a scheduling conflict.
Emmons Pond Bog is located at 2028 White Hill Rd, Oneonta, NY 13820. This event is free and open to anyone. Please register in advance at https://occainfo.org/calendar/homeschool-nature-hike-emmons-pond-bog/

If you have questions, contact Shelby MacLeish at 607-547-4488 or via email at coordinator@occainfo.org

Hyde Hall and Glimmerglass State Park Block Party
2023-06-10 10:00 - 15:00 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Join the community at Hyde Hall and Glimmerglass State Park for a day of crafts, music, food, books, and more to celebrate the summer season.

Invasive Species Control on Silver Lake
2023-06-10 10:00 - 13:00 | Silver Lake, Silver Lake Road, New Berlin, NY, 13411, United States
Join OCCA and the Silver Lake community for an enjoyable day of invasive species control! We’ll paddle on a beautiful, 40-acre lake in New Berlin in search of water chestnut and European frog-bit, two invasive plants that are impacting the lake. Free, but please register at occainfo.org to receive directions to our meeting location.

Learn to Row Open House
2023-06-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
Join Otsego Area Rowing for a Learn to Row Open House at Brookwood Point on Otsego Lake.
Free and open to all ages.
Rain date is June 17.

On the Trail of Art
2023-06-10 - 2023-06-11 | General Jacob Morris State Forest, Dimmock Hollow Road, Morris, NY, 13326, United States
The Butternut Valley Alliance presents On the Trail of Art, a free arts festival in General Jacob Morris State Forest, featuring works by professional artists and local schoolchildren. There will also be art demonstrations, participation art, strolling performance artists, and plein air painters. This event is part of the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet Challenge.
Reservations required The event will run 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday, June 10 and 9 am to 4 pm on Sunday, June 11.
Directions
From Morris: Route 23 west, go 3 miles to Dimmock Hollow Road. Turn left, go 3/4 miles to Creighton Road. Turn right, go 1 mile to George Wells Road. Turn left, go 3/4 mile to Pittsley Road. Turn right. Park along roadside.
From Gilbertsville village center: Route 51 north, go 2 miles to Nichols Road. Turn left, go 3 miles to Pittsley Road. Turn left, go 1 mile to trail entrance. Park along roadside.
Sculpture on display at Texas School House State Forest, On the Trail of Art 2021.
Artwork hanging between trees, On the Trail of Art 2021.

Chop & Cheese
2023-06-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Mohican Farm/OCCA offices, 7207 St. Hwy. 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
It’s back! Japanese knotweed, that is, and that means Chop & Cheese is back, too. Join the Otsego County Conservation Association as it continues its efforts at eliminating a patch of the highly invasive plant, Japanese knotweed at Mohican Farm in Springfield. We’ll cut back the plants and dig up the roots, and then we’ll enjoy light refreshments overlooking Otsego Lake in Mohican Farm’s beautiful garden. Bring work gloves, hand pruners, and a beverage of choice. We’ll supply the knotweed, bags and soft drinks and snacks. Please sign up in advance at https://occainfo.org/calendar/chop-cheese-4/

Plant the Garden at Brookwood Point
2023-06-06 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
Volunteer with the Otsego Land Trust for the annual spring planting and gardening day at beautiful Brookwood Point Conservation Area historic gardens.

The Land Trust needs all of the hands we can get to wake the garden back up and get it in tip-top shape for the summer.

It should be a fun afternoon enjoying the lakeside garden and getting our hands dirty as a community.

Please let the Land Trust know you can come to help out, on Sunday, June 4 from 1 pm-4pm and/or on Tuesday, June 6 from 1 pm – 4pm.

Plant the Garden at Brookwood Point
2023-06-04 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
The Land Trust needs all of the hands we can get to wake the garden back up and get it in tip-top shape for the summer.

It should be a fun afternoon enjoying the lakeside garden and getting our hands dirty as a community.

Please let the Land Trust know you can come to help out, on Sunday, June 4 from 1 pm-4pm and/or on Tuesday, June 6 from 1 pm – 4pm.

Water Chestnut Pull at Goodyear Lake
2023-06-04 13:00 - 16:00 | Goodyear Lake, State Route 28, Portlandville, NY, United States
Volunteers needed!
Kick of New York’s annual Invasive Species Awareness Week by getting an early start on controlling invasive water chestnut at Goodyear Lake’s “stump lot.” Bring your own watercraft or reserve a space in one of OCCA’s when you register at occainfo.org.
Meet at the New York State Fishing Access Site on NY State Route 28 in Portlandville.

Girls on the Run 5K
2023-06-04 10:00 - 15:00 | Neahwa Park, Bertus Lauren Drive, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
The Girls on the Run Central New York 5 K is open to the public. Festivities begin at 10 am. Run, roll, push, walk or hop your way across the finish line. Come early for the DJ and live Zumba. Race begins at noon. Register in advance at https://www.girlsontheruncny.org/5k

Rotary District 7170 Susquehanna Paddle
2023-06-03 09:00 - 12:00 | Crumhorn Fishing Access Site, H345+P3, Maryland, New York
Rotary District 7170 is conducting a paddle event on the Susquehanna River defined below. This event is open to the public. The purpose is to enjoy our natural assets and to learn more about environmental sustainability. There will be an event party for each event with snacks, and drinks. Rotary and other environmental sustainability organizations will have information available. The fee is $10.00 per adult (18 and over) to help defray costs. Children under 18 are free. A waiver of liability is required for each participant and should be brought to the event. The cut-off date for registration is three days prior to each event. Checks should be made out to Rotary District 7170.
June 3: Crumhorn Pond (DEC Fishing Access Area) to Portlandville – 9 AM, 3.5 miles (about 1 hour) or to Goodyear Lake Waterway Access at Silliman Cove 6.5 miles (about 2 hours). Event party next to Canoe and Kayak in Portlandville. For rentals call 607-286-7349.
Please fill out this form to register for the 2023 Paddle Event and send to jsmith1532@aol.com or call 607-754-0673. You will receive an email or phone call at a later date to verify final details of the event. We will also provide guide for cleaning your canoe or kayak of invasive species. Any questions can be directed to Kevin Millar at kjmilow@gmail.com or call 607-687-3263.

2023 Race the Lake Marathon & Half-Marathon, 10K/5K
2023-06-03 08:00 - 17:00 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
The 26.2 race will begin at 8:00am, starting and ending at Glimmerglass State Park. The 13.1 race will begin at 8:00am, starting on State Highway 80, near the Fenimore Art Museum. The 10K and 5k race will begin at 9:00am in Glimmerglass State Park. All races finish together in Glimmerglass State Park. This year, Race the Lake has teamed with America’s VetDogs to raise funds and awareness for this outstanding cause. America’s VetDogs supports our veterans and first responders.
The Race will circle clockwise around the picturesque Otsego Lake. Runners will travel through Cooperstown, Springfield, Middlefield and the Town of Otsego. You will have views of the lake almost all the way as you pass the Glimmerglass Festival, The Farmers’ Museum, The Otesaga Resort Hotel and several other landmarks. Both of the races will be challenging, not only for the mileage, but also the elevation changes. It’s the perfect setting for a marathon!

More information and to register: https://www.clarksportscenter.com/events/2023-race-the-lake-marathon-half-marathon/

Queer Solidarity Stroll
2023-05-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Robert V. Riddell State Park, NY-28, just north of I-88 Exit 17, Davenport, New York, 13750
Join the Otsego County Conservation Association for the first of its queer organized and led outdoor event series! This light hike is designed to give you time to connect with the outdoors as well as other queer people. Make a new friend, swap tips on finding gender-affirming gear or fun trails, or simply enjoy a walk in good company. No gear besides sneakers, water, and a snack will be necessary.
We will meet at Robert V. Riddell State Park in Davenport at 10am. For further details please contact Will Kuss at 607-375-7280 (call or text as you prefer) or water@occainfo.org. This program is free. Please register in advance at https://occainfo.org/calendar/queer-solidarity-stroll/

Andy Jones Memorial 5K
2023-05-27 09:00 - 12:00 | Wilber Park, Milford, Dave West Drive, Milford, NY, 13807
In honor of Andy Jones, an active member of the Milford Fire Department and a Milford Central School graduate who unexpectedly passed away in January 2023 from Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), the Milford Fire Department is honoring Andy by creating an annual scholarship to a graduating Milford Senior that is going to continue on in providing community service.

All funds raised during this event will go towards the annual scholarship and HCM awareness.
For more information, or to sign
up: https://andyjonesmemorial5k.itsyourrace.com

General Clinton Canoe Regatta
2023-05-26 - 2023-05-28 | Susquehanna River
Be a part of the world’s longest single-day flat water canoe race as a paddler or a spectator. The 70-mile race begins at Brookwood Point on Otsego Lake in Cooperstown and continues down the Susquehanna River to General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.
Since its start in 1963, the Regatta has grown to 3 days of canoe races plus many other events; a 5k run, wrestling tournament, carnival rides, entertainment, food, fireworks and more. There are canoe races for young and old, newbies to pros. The General Clinton Canoe Regatta brings racers and spectators from all over the US, Canada, Europe and South America to paddle in this premier canoe racing event.

Blazing A Trail talk
2023-05-20 14:00 - 15:00 | Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Hwy 11, Hartwick, NY, 13348
Find out more about Otsego Outdoors, the Octet Challenges, and local trails at a talk by Peg Odell, Otsego 2000 program and communications manager, at Kinney Memorial Library in Hartwick. Feel free to come and share your favorite local hikes too!

Butternut Creek Riparian Stewardship Day
2023-05-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Butternut Creek
The Butternut Valley Alliance and the Upper Susquehanna Coalition will be hosting a volunteer workday to steward riparian forest buffer plantings in the Butternut Creek watershed on May 20th, 2023 from 9am-12 pm. If you have any questions, please contact GlasserA@tiogacountyny.gov or bva.exec@gmail.com. You can register for the event using this link . Please Join Us!
We’ll meet at the corner of State Route 23 and County Route 51 just outside the Village of Morris (across from the cemetery) to plant trees and maintain the buffer along the Butternut Creek.
Volunteering at this event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.

Morning Birds at Mohican with OCCA and DOAS
2023-05-20 07:00 - 09:00 | Mohican Farm/OCCA offices, 7207 St. Hwy. 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
What will be flitting and flying about the woods and fields at Mohican Farm in Springfield? Join us and find out! Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society Co-President, Becky Gretton leads this bird walk at The Clark Foundation’s Mohican Farm. The varied habitats of the farm attract a surprising array of avian life. Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
Sign up in advance at https://occainfo.org/calendar/morning-birds-at-mohican/

DOAS Big Day Bird Count
2023-05-20 | NY
The Big Day is a group effort in which birders, working alone, in pairs, or in small groups, work to locate as many bird species as we can in a single fun day on Saturday May 20. Birders can spend any amount of time they choose within that 24 hours, and report on their efforts to the Big Day coordinator, Charlie Scheim.
Everyone is welcome, novice or experienced. If you are interested and have not participated before, please contact Charlie at 607-434-4880 (voice or text) or scheimc@hartwick.edu to get information on joining in the fun.
DOAS Bird Checklist – revised 2020.

Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk
2023-05-20 | Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston, NY, 13335
Pathfinder Village invites you to join in the 10th annual Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk. This year’s event will raise funds for vocational programs and our Pathfinder Produce Mobile Market, which has delivered fresh fruits & vegetables to neighbors in area communities since 2018.
The Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk features a flat scenic route, non-toxic color stations, and pre- and post-run family festivities, including a ZUMBA warm-up session, music, food trucks, and craft and home business vendors. Each pre-registered participant will receive a tee shirt and goodie bag. Please note that bicycles and dogs are not allowed on the route.
More information/to register

Jean Miller Memorial Wildflower Walk
2023-05-17 10:00 - 12:30 | Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY, 13796, United States
The 2023 Jean Miller Memorial Wildflower Walk at Gilbert Lake State Park, in cooperation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Central Region, will take place this year on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. Participants will meet at the beach area at 10am.
The walk is approximately 2-3 hours in the Park on easy to medium terrain and will be led by DOAS member and local botanist, Connie Tedesco. Bring water, insect repellent, binoculars if on hand, and your curiosity!
This is a free program. Pre-registration is required on the DOAS website using this form. This helps us contact participants in case there is an issue with the weather. Contact info@doas.us for additional information.

Hike with ADK at the Silas Lane Susquehanna Greenway
2023-05-16 09:45 - 12:00 | Oneonta Susquehanna Greenway trail (Silas Lane), Silas Lane, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
Join members of the the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club for a guided hike along the Susquehanna Greenway at Silas Lane. These weekly hikes are open to all.
For more information see https://susqadk.org/outing-schedule/
Participating in an ADK hike counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Octet Spring Challenge.

Spring Bird Walk at the DOAS Sanctuary
2023-05-14 08:00 - 10:00 | DOAS Sanctuary and Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch, 52 Grange Hall Road Spur, Oneonta, New York, 13820
Returning migrants should include warblers, vireos, orioles, tanagers, and possibly waterfowl and raptors. The walk will last approximately two hours, and will require some hill-climbing and hiking over uneven and possibly muddy ground. For further information, contact Andy Mason, 607- 267-8491.
Directions to the
DOAS Sanctuary can be found at the doas website: https://doas.us

Evening Hike at Glimmerglass State Park with OCCA
2023-05-13 19:00 - 20:30 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Get the Kids Out Evening Stroll at Glimmerglass State Park
Have you ever wanted to explore the park after dark? Join OCCA educator Shelby MacLeish for an evening walk along the beach and the beaver pond trail, where we will experience the sights and sounds we do not get to experience during the day.
The program is free and open to everyone. Please register in advance at https://occainfo.org/calendar/get-the-kids-out-evening-stroll/

Homeschool Nature Walk at Glimmerglass State Park with OCCA
2023-05-12 12:00 - 13:30 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Join OCCA educator Shelby MacLeish for a seasonal walk and pond study on the Beaver Pond and Covered Bridge Trails. Our group will examine the wetlands, beaver ponds, and shadow brook for nesting waterfowl, macroinvertebrates, and signs of local animals. We will talk about adaptations, plant ID, and the park’s natural history.
The program is free and open to everyone. To sign up for the program, please visit https://occainfo.org/calendar/homeschool-nature-walk-glimmerglass-state-park/

Hike with ADK at Texas School House State Forest
2023-05-09 09:45 - 12:00 | Texas Schoolhouse State Forest, Mount Vision, NY, 13810, United States
Join members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) for a guided hike. Free and open to all. For more information, go to susqadk.org
