The Power of Partnerships
The Statewide Friends Conference is back, and we can’t wait to gather with you in beautiful Lake George! Join us September 18–19, 2026 at the Fort William Henry Conference Center for a weekend of connection, inspiration, and fresh ideas.
Held every two years, this special event—hosted by Parks & Trails New York, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the Department of Environmental Conservation—brings together Friends groups and public lands champions from across the state. It’s a chance to meet fellow advocates, swap stories, learn from one another, and spark new collaborations that support parks, historic sites, greenway trails, and public lands.
Together, we’ll dig into how strong partnerships can deepen stewardship, open the door to greater access, and create welcoming, inclusive spaces where everyone feels they belong.
September 18 & 19
The agenda
This tentative agenda offers a preview of the two-day gathering, including sessions, networking opportunities, and field experiences designed to connect and inspire participants. A detailed schedule will be shared closer to the event as programming and speakers are confirmed.
What to expect
The Statewide Friends Gathering is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for Friends groups, nonprofit leaders, volunteers, and agency partners across New York to come together, share ideas, and learn from one another. What you’ll gain:
- Fresh strategies to strengthen your Friends group or nonprofit organization
- Practical tools to enhance stewardship, programming, and community partnerships
- Inspiration from peers supporting parks, trails, historic sites, and public lands across New York
- Meaningful connections with fellow advocates and state agency partners
This gathering is designed to support organizations at every stage of growth. You’ll find valuable insights, real-world examples, and a welcoming community of peers. The program blends engaging sessions, hands-on learning, and built-in networking opportunities so you can exchange ideas, build relationships, and return home energized and ready to take your work to the next level.
Call for Presentations
Rather than building the entire program around speakers, the conference will include sessions proposed and led by Friends. This approach helps ensure that the program reflects the real challenges, innovations, and successes happening across the state. Across all sessions, we encourage proposals that demonstrate how partnerships can expand access, foster belonging, and remove barriers to participation on public lands.
location & lodging
Located in the heart of Lake George, the Fort William Henry Conference Center offers stunning views of the Adirondacks and Lake George. Attendees will enjoy:
- Walkable access to the lakefront
- On-site lodging and conference facilities
- A scenic setting ideal for networking and exploration
Discounted lodging rates and room block details will be provided in your registration confirmation.
The 2026 Friends Gathering is made possible with funding from the Environmental Protection Fund. All organizations that are eligible for the Park and Trail Partnership Grants are welcome to attend the Friends Gathering. If you have any questions regarding eligibility, please contact friends@ptny.org.