Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries is the Hudson Valley campus of Clarkson University, with administrative headquarters and a state-of-the-art educational facility on Dennings Point, Beacon, NY.
The Institute's mission is to ignite citizen science, user-inspired R&D and education through collaboration and creative innovation, inspiring sustainable solutions for estuary and freshwater ecosystems throughout the Hudson Valley and across New York State.
True to its mission, the campus serves as both a research institute focused on healthy water solutions and a provider of educational services at all levels, including K-12, public and family and professional graduate programs.
Learn more about our growing Hudson Valley campus.
Spring 2021 Hours
beaconinstitute@clarkson.edu
845-838-1600
Clarkson's Beacon Institute and Water Ecology Center is open to public visitors, student groups and families by appointment. For school groups, we offer a range of programming. Meet our live animals, explore our ecology exhibits, and more. Outdoor environmental and STEM programs based from our campus in Dennings Point State Park can be arranged. See "Educational Programs" below for more information on in-person and virtual options.
Availability is flexible, 7 days a week, except certain dates and holidays. Depending on timing and group size, a modest per person fee may apply. To inquire, email Brigette Walsh at bwalsh@clarkson.edu.
Live Animal Exhibits: Meet animals of the Hudson watershed and beyond, and learn how fish, turtles, snakes and more survive and thrive throughout the seasons.
Water Ecology Center - Open for select public events
199 Dennings Ave., Beacon, NY
inside Dennings Point State Park
Current Ecology Exhibit:
Critter Cribs: Hudson River Habitats - Bring the family to learn about the animals of the Hudson River and Dennings Point Park. Get an insider's view of their homes and habits in this habitat walk for all ages.
Safety Protocols:
For the safety of our visitors, staff, and volunteers, and in compliance with state and federal guidance, social distancing practices must be followed. Indoor and outdoor activity groups are limited to a preset number of participants. Masks must be worn at all times inside facilities and throughout in-person programs; as well as on the trails and premises whenever a 6-foot distance cannot be maintained between individuals or households.