New York State has more than 7,500 lakes, ponds and reservoirs
New York State has more than 7,500 lakes, ponds and reservoirs and over 50,000 miles of rivers and streams. Boating on these waterbodies can take the form of canoes, kayaks, personal watercraft, sailboats and motorboats. Many lakes, ponds and streams in the Forest Preserves are restricted to non-motorized boating.
DEC provides many boat access points at campgrounds and fishing access spots in the Adirondack and Catskills. This includes both car top and trailer access sites. Please remember to wear your life jackets, don’t drink and drive, and have a good time. For more information about boating registration, please call the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at (518) 473-5595.
For more information about boating requirements & boating safety, please call the Office of Parks, Recreation & Historical Preservation at (518) 474-0456.