EVENTS

Free to the public, unless stated otherwise

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Filtering by: “Wildlife and Nature”
Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service
Sep
5

Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service

Kayaking for beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation is required.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

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Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service
Sep
6

Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service

Kayaking for beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation is required.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sep
6

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

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Fall Migration Bird Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sep
7

Fall Migration Bird Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a Fall Migration Bird Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge.

This is a great way to not only see and hear as many birds as possible, but to also take in the changing of the seasons! Sunscreen and bug spray recommended; binoculars available to borrow.

There will be two tours – one that begins at 10:00 a.m. and another that starts at 2:00 p.m. Each tour will last an hour and a half.

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Mill Basin Beginner Kayaking wth National Park Service
Sep
9

Mill Basin Beginner Kayaking wth National Park Service

  • Floyd Bennett Field Mill Basin Kayak Launch (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Enjoy this easygoing paddle along Mill Basin’s shoreline and perhaps glimpse roiling bunker or horses on the far shoreline. Led by a National Park Service Ranger.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

Call (347) 672 3210 to make a reservation and for more information. (1 mile)

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Jamaica Bay Book Club with National Park Service
Sep
11

Jamaica Bay Book Club with National Park Service

Join National Park Service rangers and your neighbors for a Jamaica Bay-themed book club! We will be reading selections of nature-themed literature, and together think critically about nature literature and our place in the natural world.

This will be an outlet for open and respectful discussion, and a space to jointly enjoy the works that we will be reading! Please bring your thoughts and questions.

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Big Sit Birding at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sep
12

Big Sit Birding at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Birding and enjoying the outdoors should be a welcoming and inclusive activity for all people, and for that reason we welcome you to join us while we sit, watch, and listen for as many bird species as possible. People of all experience levels are invited, particularly people who are blind, partially sighted, have low vision, and/or mobility issues.

We will be sitting on benches near our pollinator garden, adjacent to the visitor center. Sunscreen and bug spray recommended; binoculars available to borrow.

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Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Life On The Shore
Sep
13

Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Life On The Shore

Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for Park Pals, a hands-on early childhood (0-6) series designed to spark curiosity, connection, and care for nature. Each 90-minute session includes storytime, crafts, and outdoor exploration along the beautiful shoreline of Floyd Bennett Field, all tailored for our youngest adventurers and their families. Come learn, play, and grow with us as we discover something new each session!

Our September session focuses on the creatures that live on the shore and in the waters of Jamaica Bay. We’ll explore the unique adaptations and behaviors of the horseshoe crab, fiddler crab, menhaden and migratory birds. Families will enjoy a range of hands-on activities and crafts in both indoor and outdoor settings. We'll be going on our guided nature walk and participating in a puppet show about adaptations!

JBRPC Park Pals Programs are generously supported by the New York Community Trust, Office of the New York State Attorney General for the New York Pollinator Conservation Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, and Council Members Joann Ariola and Mercedes Narcisse.

Registration is required. Please follow the link below.

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sep
13

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

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Mill Basin Beginner Kayaking wth National Park Service
Sep
17

Mill Basin Beginner Kayaking wth National Park Service

  • Floyd Bennett Field Mill Basin Kayak Launch (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Enjoy this easygoing paddle along Mill Basin’s shoreline and perhaps glimpse roiling bunker or horses on the far shoreline. Led by a National Park Service Ranger.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

Call (347) 672 3210 to make a reservation and for more information. (1 mile)

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Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field
Sep
18

Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!

The observing location is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars.

If you do come out, remember to observe proper car light etiquette. Douse your lights at the entrance in the fence line, and let someone guide you in. If your car has running lights that don’t turn off, park at the fence. NOTE: Events are canceled in the event of rain, of if the sky is overcast.

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sep
20

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

View Event →
Jamaica Bay Book Club with National Park Service
Sep
25

Jamaica Bay Book Club with National Park Service

Join National Park Service rangers and your neighbors for a Jamaica Bay-themed book club! We will be reading selections of nature-themed literature, and together think critically about nature literature and our place in the natural world.

This will be an outlet for open and respectful discussion, and a space to jointly enjoy the works that we will be reading! Please bring your thoughts and questions.

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Raptorama
Sep
27

Raptorama

Raptorama is an annual event presented by the National Park Service at Gateway National Recreation Area with Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, American Littoral Society, NYC Bird Alliance, and the Wildlife Center of Long Island.

During the fall, millions of birds, including bird of prey migrate through New York City on their journey south for the winter. Raptorama at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is the perfect excuse to get outside, learn more about these animals amazing journeys, and see some of them up close and personal!

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Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field
Oct
16

Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!

The observing location is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars.

If you do come out, remember to observe proper car light etiquette. Douse your lights at the entrance in the fence line, and let someone guide you in. If your car has running lights that don’t turn off, park at the fence. NOTE: Events are canceled in the event of rain, of if the sky is overcast.

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Open House New York: West Pond Living Shoreline Tour
Oct
17

Open House New York: West Pond Living Shoreline Tour

Join JBRPC for an immersive walking tour of the West Pond Living Shoreline project at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge.

Want to get outdoors and explore a hidden gem of New York City's largest open space?

Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for a guided nature tour of the West Pond Living Shoreline project at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. You'll get an exclusive, up-close look at this innovative shoreline restoration, installed in 2021 by JBRPC, the National Park Service, and the Science and Resilience Institute at Jamaica Bay.

The Living Shoreline is a nature-based solution to the growing challenges of coastal erosion and wetland loss. As you explore the area, JBRPC staff will provide expert insight how this project has created new habitats and strengthened the resilience of this vital freshwater pond. This tour offers a unique insight into how nature-based solutions can protect coastal environments.

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Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Fall Nature Explorers
Oct
18

Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Fall Nature Explorers

Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for our monthly Park Pals program at Floyd Bennett Field! Designed for children ages 0–6 and their caregivers, this early childhood family program invites little learners to explore the wonders of nature through hands-on sensory activities, themed read-alouds, and guided nature walks.

Each Sunday session will focus on a different aspect of the changing fall season as families discover the plants, animals, and natural phenomena that make Floyd Bennett Field and the Jamaica Bay estuary so special. Together, we’ll explore textures, colors, sounds, and seasonal changes through play-based activities before heading out on a gentle walk to the shoreline, where families can enjoy sweeping views of Jamaica Bay and observe the wildlife that calls this estuary home.

Through stories, sensory exploration, and outdoor discovery, Park Pals encourages children and caregivers to slow down, connect with nature, and build a lifelong appreciation for the natural world together.

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Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Fall Nature Explorers
Nov
8

Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Fall Nature Explorers

Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for our monthly Park Pals program at Floyd Bennett Field! Designed for children ages 0–6 and their caregivers, this early childhood family program invites little learners to explore the wonders of nature through hands-on sensory activities, themed read-alouds, and guided nature walks.

Each Sunday session will focus on a different aspect of the changing fall season as families discover the plants, animals, and natural phenomena that make Floyd Bennett Field and the Jamaica Bay estuary so special. Together, we’ll explore textures, colors, sounds, and seasonal changes through play-based activities before heading out on a gentle walk to the shoreline, where families can enjoy sweeping views of Jamaica Bay and observe the wildlife that calls this estuary home.

Through stories, sensory exploration, and outdoor discovery, Park Pals encourages children and caregivers to slow down, connect with nature, and build a lifelong appreciation for the natural world together.

View Event →
Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field
Nov
13

Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!

The observing location is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars.

If you do come out, remember to observe proper car light etiquette. Douse your lights at the entrance in the fence line, and let someone guide you in. If your car has running lights that don’t turn off, park at the fence. NOTE: Events are canceled in the event of rain, of if the sky is overcast.

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Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Fall Nature Explorers
Dec
6

Park Pals at Floyd Bennett Field: Fall Nature Explorers

Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for our monthly Park Pals program at Floyd Bennett Field! Designed for children ages 0–6 and their caregivers, this early childhood family program invites little learners to explore the wonders of nature through hands-on sensory activities, themed read-alouds, and guided nature walks.

Each Sunday session will focus on a different aspect of the changing fall season as families discover the plants, animals, and natural phenomena that make Floyd Bennett Field and the Jamaica Bay estuary so special. Together, we’ll explore textures, colors, sounds, and seasonal changes through play-based activities before heading out on a gentle walk to the shoreline, where families can enjoy sweeping views of Jamaica Bay and observe the wildlife that calls this estuary home.

Through stories, sensory exploration, and outdoor discovery, Park Pals encourages children and caregivers to slow down, connect with nature, and build a lifelong appreciation for the natural world together.

View Event →
Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field
Dec
12

Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!

The observing location is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars.

If you do come out, remember to observe proper car light etiquette. Douse your lights at the entrance in the fence line, and let someone guide you in. If your car has running lights that don’t turn off, park at the fence. NOTE: Events are canceled in the event of rain, of if the sky is overcast.

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Jamaica Bay Sunset Walk
Sep
4

Jamaica Bay Sunset Walk

Join a park ranger on a peaceful walk through the refuge to watch for wildlife while we enjoy a beautiful Jamaica Bay sunset.

Participants will meet a the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Aug
23

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

View Event →
Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service
Aug
23

Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service

Kayaking for beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation is required.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

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National Park Week Kickoff at Floyd Bennett Field
Aug
22

National Park Week Kickoff at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy and the National Park Service (NPS) on Saturday, August 22 from 9AM–1PM at Floyd Bennett Field for a special kickoff celebration to National Park Week!

Spend the morning exploring one of New York City’s most exciting national park spaces through a variety of unique experiences happening across the park, including the opportunity to rent bikes or hop aboard a trolley shuttle to travel between activities and destinations throughout the park. RC Jet Planes will also be flying off Runway 19, near the scenic shoreline of Floyd Bennett Field's North 40 Natural Area.

Visitors can also take part in free NPS kayaking on Jamaica Bay, visits to the Ryan Visitor Center, and tours of historic Hangar B to view vintage aircraft up close, with NPS rangers available to help guide your visit.

Whether you are coming for waterfront adventure, aviation history, conservation, or a new way to experience the park, this special celebration offers something for everyone.

No entrance fee applies for Floyd Bennett Field. All activities are free, except rentals for bikes.

Activities and times:

  • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM – Ryan Visitor Center open hours

  • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM – Trolley shuttle rides (last ride departs at 12:30 PM)

  • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM – Bike rentals (final rentals at 12:00 PM)

  • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM – Watch remote control jet airplanes taking off from Runway 19, near the scenic shoreline of the North 40 Natural Area

  • 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM – Kayaking for beginners at Seaplane Ramp

  • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM – Hangar B vintage aircraft collection open

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Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field
Aug
21

Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!

The observing location is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars.

If you do come out, remember to observe proper car light etiquette. Douse your lights at the entrance in the fence line, and let someone guide you in. If your car has running lights that don’t turn off, park at the fence. NOTE: Events are canceled in the event of rain, of if the sky is overcast.

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21st Annual Shorebird Festival
Aug
16

21st Annual Shorebird Festival

Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, Gateway National Recreation Area, American Littoral Society, New York City Bird Alliance, and New York City Plover Project for the 21st Annual Shorebird Festival. August is the perfect time to explore the diversity of New York City’s shorebirds!

Shorebird Festival attendees will have the opportunity to spot and learn about the scores of shorebird species and their natural habitat of the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, filled with marshland, fresh and brackish water ponds, and grassy fields.

Attendees will meet at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

This festival is kid-friendly and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Program Schedule

All programs meet outside the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Programs are free and subject to changes or cancellation.

Tabling, Crafts & Activities 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Led by the National Park Service, American Littoral Society, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, NYC Bird Alliance, NYC Plover Project and more!

East Pond Walk 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Led by Don Riepe (American Littoral Society) and Tom Burke (New York State Ornithological Association)

Spanish Bilingual Birding East Pond Walk 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Led by NYC Bird Alliance

Birding for Beginners West Pond Walk 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Led by National Park Service rangers

Shorebird History and Management Presentation 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Led by Don Riepe (American Littoral Society)

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Learn to Fish Clinic, with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Aug
12

Learn to Fish Clinic, with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) I FISH NY program is excited to offer an engaging recreational experience, connecting state residents with their local natural resources through fishing.

This free event will take place on August 12, 2026 from 4-6pm at Gerritsen Ave Beach.

DEC provides all the necessary instruction, equipment, and bait for a fishing experience. Visit the DEC Free Learn To Fish Clinics webpage for more information about this and other free fishing events.

Stop by the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy table to learn about our upcoming recreation, ecology, and family programs like this one and more!

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Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field
Jul
24

Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field

Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!

The observing location is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars.

If you do come out, remember to observe proper car light etiquette. Douse your lights at the entrance in the fence line, and let someone guide you in. If your car has running lights that don’t turn off, park at the fence. NOTE: Events are canceled in the event of rain, of if the sky is overcast.

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Moth Ball: A Night of Moths & Moonlight at Floyd Bennett Field
Jul
20

Moth Ball: A Night of Moths & Moonlight at Floyd Bennett Field

Join us for National Moth Week as we dive into the secret world of Jamaica Bay’s glowing biodiversity. We’ll begin indoors with our “Moth Academy,” featuring light refreshments and an introduction to the local species, led by Don Riepe, a founding member of the NYC Butterfly Club.

While inside, participants can get creative at our moth mask art station and practice their photography skills at the UV “glow-up” photo station. As darkness falls, we will venture outside for our “moth crawl.”

Experience three unique stations, our powerful light sheet, sugar baiting on trees, and a guided UV flashlight walk to find vital coastal pollinators like the Luna moth and the White-lined Sphinx Moth.

No prior experience needed. A perfect outing for all nature lovers.

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Learn to Fish Clinic, with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Jul
16

Learn to Fish Clinic, with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) I FISH NY program is excited to offer an engaging recreational experience, connecting state residents with their local natural resources through fishing.

DEC provides all the necessary instruction, equipment, and bait for a fishing experience. Visit the DEC Free Learn To Fish Clinics webpage for more information about this and other free fishing events.

Speak with Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy and Marine Park Alliance staff on site to learn about our upcoming recreation, ecology, and family programs like this one and more!

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Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service
Jul
5

Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service

Kayaking for beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation is required.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

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Kayaking for Beginners at Riis Landing with National Park Service
Jul
4

Kayaking for Beginners at Riis Landing with National Park Service

Kayaking for beginners.  Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation required.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack.

Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

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Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service
Jul
4

Kayaking for Beginners at Floyd Bennett Field with National Park Service

Kayaking for beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation is required.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

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Learn to Paddle at Mill Basin with National Park Service
Jul
3

Learn to Paddle at Mill Basin with National Park Service

This is a fun “how to” paddle program. Learn to get in and out, go forward, turn, stop and back up a kayak.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

Call (347) 672 3210 to make a reservation and for more information.

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Jamaica Bay Book Club with National Park Service
Jul
3

Jamaica Bay Book Club with National Park Service

Join National Park Service rangers and your neighbors for a Jamaica Bay-themed book club! We will be reading selections of nature-themed literature, and together think critically about nature literature and our place in the natural world.

This will be an outlet for open and respectful discussion, and a space to jointly enjoy the works that we will be reading! Please bring your thoughts and questions.

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Fishing Frenzy at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Jul
3

Fishing Frenzy at Shirley Chisholm State Park

Join park educators in learning what fish live in Jamaica Bay through FREE rod and reel fishing! Catch and release only. Materials provided.

No experience necessary, join us on Penn Pier to learn the ins and outs of fishing in Jamaica Bay! Participants will also learn about fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques, angling ethics, and aquatic ecology.

This is a FREE program! All supplies, including rods and bait will be provided.

Each session is limited to 15 fishing rods; families/small groups are encouraged to share a rod.

Please only register for one session per Friday, to give others a chance to fish.

Session times: 2:00pm to 2:45pm | 3:00pm to 3:45pm | 4:00pm to 4:45pm

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Mill Basin Beginner Kayaking wth National Park Service
Jul
3

Mill Basin Beginner Kayaking wth National Park Service

Enjoy this easygoing paddle along Mill Basin’s shoreline and perhaps glimpse roiling bunker or horses on the far shoreline. Led by a National Park Service Ranger.

Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles and instructions will be provided.

Call (347) 672 3210 to make a reservation and for more information. (1 mile)

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Jun
28

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

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Summer Sun: Scopes on the Solstice at Marine Park
Jun
21

Summer Sun: Scopes on the Solstice at Marine Park

Join Marine Park Alliance and the Amateur Astronomers Association as we celebrate the longest day of the year by viewing the sun through telescopes with filters to allow for safe solar observation. 

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Jun
21

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

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"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Jun
14

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Join the National Park Service for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. 

Open to all — no registration required.

For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.

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Pollinator Explorers: A JBRPC Family Program at Edgemere Farm
Jun
14

Pollinator Explorers: A JBRPC Family Program at Edgemere Farm

Join us at Edgemere Farm for a free, fun, hands-on program celebrating pollinators and their important role in our community! Designed for children ages 2–10 and their caregivers, this interactive event will explore how bees, butterflies, and other pollinators help grow the food we eat and support healthy ecosystems right here in Rockaway.

Families will enjoy a guided garden tour, playful learning activities including making their own “insect hotels” using upcycled and foraged materials, and a chance to take home a native plant to support pollinators at home. Through exploration, movement, and discovery, participants will learn how caring for pollinators helps strengthen both the farm and our local environment. Pre-registration is required.

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Jamaica Bay: Refuge for Wildlife, Refuge for People with the National Park Service
Jun
13

Jamaica Bay: Refuge for Wildlife, Refuge for People with the National Park Service

Join a park ranger on a tour to learn all about Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge! Together we'll focus on the plants, animals, and history, that make this place so special. We will incorporate some meditative practices as well to find new ways to enhance our experiences in nature.

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Birding: Shorebird Families with Urban Park Rangers
Jun
13

Birding: Shorebird Families with Urban Park Rangers

Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best viewing spots in New York City to see migratory birds. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.

Learn more about plovers, terns, oystercatchers and other shorebirds that nest on the beach shoreline.

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Forest Bathing Workshop: Restoring Our Relationship with the Earth
Jun
7

Forest Bathing Workshop: Restoring Our Relationship with the Earth

This two-hour guided forest bathing workshop invites participants into a traditional slow immersion walk through the park, integrating mindful sensory invitations, breathwork, and embodied reflection.

In alignment with World Environment Day’s global call for environmental stewardship and climate resilience, the experience concludes with a guided visualization and gentle act-of-care practice, encouraging each participant to identify one sustainable action that supports both personal well-being and planetary health.

Registration required.

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Mushrooms of Marine Park
Jun
6

Mushrooms of Marine Park

What role do mushrooms and fungi play in the complex web of ecosystems found in the salt marsh? What exactly are mushrooms and fungi? Discover more with Andrew Cannon of the New York Mycological Society and find out what's could be growing in our marsh.

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Trees Count at Rockaway Community Park with the Urban Park Rangers
Jun
4

Trees Count at Rockaway Community Park with the Urban Park Rangers

Volunteer with NYC Parks for Trees Count 2025! At each event you will receive a tote bag with all the materials needed to count trees.

Next, we'll provide a 30-minute training session that includes the basics of tree identification and how to measure and assess each tree. Using our Tree Census app, you’ll split up into different zones within the park to start counting trees!

After completing your first training event, you are welcome to continue counting trees on your own in smaller parks across the city. Registration is required. Registration begins on May 14.

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Turtle Count Community Science Program at Marine Park
May
30

Turtle Count Community Science Program at Marine Park

Join Marine Park Alliance to learn how you can use binoculars to help out with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s volunteer diamondback terrapin headcount surveys.

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Learn to Fish Clinic, with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
May
30

Learn to Fish Clinic, with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) I FISH NY program is excited to offer an engaging recreational experience, connecting state residents with their local natural resources through fishing.

DEC provides all the necessary instruction, equipment, and bait for a fishing experience. Visit the DEC Free Learn To Fish Clinics webpage for more information about this and other free fishing events.

Stop by the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy table to learn about our upcoming recreation, ecology, and family programs like this one and more!

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World Fish Migration Day Seining at Shirley Chisholm State Park
May
30

World Fish Migration Day Seining at Shirley Chisholm State Park

Help us catch, count, and record fish species and wildlife that thrive along the shores of the Penn Water Access Area!

Join the Education Team on Saturday, May 30th from 10am to 12pm for a morning of seining! Together we'll discover the incredible wildlife that call these shores home.

This program is free! All supplies are provided.

All ages are welcome. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

This program is fully outdoors. Please wear shoes you don't mind getting wet or muddy.

We will meet at the Penn Water Access Area. Note: The PWAA is roughly a 10 minute walk from the parking lot along a flat, gravel trail.

Don't forget to pack water, sun screen, and whatever else you need to be comfortable outside on the trails.

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