The overall upward trend in visitation underscores the continued importance of monitoring the Catskills’ most popular outdoor destinations and highlights the value of the stewards’ efforts in preserving the park’s natural heritage while promoting a positive visitor experience. The program includes seven full-time Catskill stewards and one part-time ridgerunner, all certified in wilderness first aid, trained as Leave No Trace educators, and instructed by the state Department of Environmental Conservation on forest rules, regulations, and invasive species identification. Stewards are stationed at high-use locations throughout the region, including Peekamoose Blue Hole, Kaaterskill Falls, Platte Clove and Thorn Preserves, Devil’s Path and six fire tower locations.
They collaborate closely with forest rangers in their efforts to protect and preserve the Catskill Park. Their duties include providing information on permit requirements, removing litter, rehabilitating illegal campsites, protecting water quality, and promoting responsible recreation practices. Additionally, they assist the United States Forest Service in data collection to better understand visitor demographics and usage trends.
From May 1 to mid-July, the Catskill stewards engaged with 23,335 visitors and 1,772 dogs, bringing total visitation to 28,223 across all locations. Peekamoose Blue Hole saw 7,822 visitors, an increase of nearly 1,100 from 2023. Kaaterskill Falls had 14,421 visitors, a decrease of rou.