Abandoned Catskill Game Farm Workshop (Afternoon Session) – October 19, 2024

Description

Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 2:00p-6:00p
Cost: $125
Max Participants: 15
Location: Catskill, New York

I’ve visited a lot of incredible spots in New York, but few have been as much fun to explore and photograph as the Old Catskill Game Farm in Catskill, New York.

The Catskill Game Farm was in operation for more than seven decades before closing in 2006. Since then, the old zoo has largely been left abandoned except for a few areas that have been turned into a small hotel and several camp sites around the property. (Note that all animals were removed from the grounds years ago, though there are a few farm animals on the property now that are well taken care of.)

You can read more of the site’s history here.

For the last few years, this abandoned zoo has been totally off-limits to the public unless you stay the night at their lodge or one of the camp sites. However, those looking for a less expensive option to just explore during the day have been largely out of lucky, until now.

During this photo workshop, you’ll have full run of this 200-acre property (minus a handful of private buildings) with 3.5 miles of paved trails and some really cool abandoned buildings and structures that used to house animal pens, small shops, etc.

There are a ton of great photo opportunities here, plus it’s a really fun spot to explore.

It’s worth noting that while some clean-up has been done here, there are some rough areas here that can present hazards for visitors. All guests will be required to sign two waivers (one for me and one for the site). Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and bug spray are recommended. You may also want to bring a mask for when inside buildings, as well as a tripod and flashlight as some spaces are a bit dark.

Because of these hazards, anyone under 18 must be accompanied at all times by a parent or guardian and won’t be admitted without one. All attendees must purchase a ticket regardless of whether they will be shooting photos or not.

There are two sessions and you can sign up for one or both of them. There is no discount for signing up for both sessions, but you won’t be required to leave between them, so you will get an additional hour of photography on the grounds. The Morning Session can be found here.

This workshop will be a bit less structured than some of my other workshops due to the massive nature of the site. Maps will be provided to each attendee upon arrival, and I will be available throughout the day by phone if you need any assistance. I will also wander through the property trying to check in on as many people as possible during the event.

That being said, for anyone that wants or needs some assistance with photos, I will provide as much instruction as I possibly can during the event, and we will start together to help you get a feel for the site.

Generally speaking, workshops will go on even if there is a threat of inclement weather. However, if we must cancel the workshop, we will try to reschedule it. If you are unable to attend the rescheduled date, you can apply your amount paid to another photo workshop or receive a full refund.

This workshop also has a minimum number of participants required for it to go on. Should that minimum not be met at least 14 days prior to the workshop, all money will be refunded. We will not refund any other expenses such as hotel or transportation costs. It’s recommended that you either book refundable options or purchase travel insurance.

If you have any other questions regarding refund policies, suggested equipment, or anything else, read our FAQ page. You can also message me using the form below.

Those traveling from far away will want to look for lodging in and around Catskill, New York.

About the Instructor

Jim Cheney is the writer, photographer, and creator of Uncovering PA and Uncovering New York. He is an award-winning photographer that has photographed extensively around the world, including hundreds of spots in New York and Pennsylvania. Jim’s photography focuses on creating unique images utilizing long-exposure shots of waterfalls, sunsets, sunrises, and cityscapes. He also has an interest in abandoned photography.

You can see more of his work on the UncoveringPA Instagram page or on his personal Facebook page, JimCheneyPhotography.

Click here for a list of equipment used by Jim.