Trails and Outdoor Recreation: Common Sense Guidelines

• Follow the rules and regulations of the area you're visiting.
• Download or print out a map or guide and keep it with you.
• Dress appropriately for the activity or area.
• Most of our recreational areas are carry-in, carry-out. Take your trash with you.

• Leave your pets at home unless an area permits them.
• Unless you're hunting, trapping, or fishing, it's generally not permitted to disturb or take any wildlife or other artifacts, including plants, animals, fossils, gravestones, stone walls, fences, or signage.
• Stay on designated trails, especially in limestone areas which have sinkholes and crevices in the stone. You could easily break a bone if you fall into one of these.
• If an area is posted as "Closed," respect that sign. The trail may be dangerous, wildlife may be protected, or bats may be hibernating.
• Many of our recreational areas abut private property. Be sure to respect private property.
• Make sure your watercraft or firewood is not carrying an invasive plant or animal species.
• You must have proper licenses and permits for hunting, fishing, trapping, and use of motorized vehicles or watercraft.
• Visit NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historical Preservation for a comprehensive list of Trail Tips.