The Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center opened in July 2001 and is located in Thompson's Lake State Park and adjacent John Boyd Thacher State Park. Exhibits and displays include a geologic model of the Helderberg Escarpment, a live honeybee observation hive, bird viewing area, fossils, furs and other hands-on collections.

Trails for hiking and skiing lead from the nature center to the lake, through woodlands and fields.

The center offers year-round educational programs for school groups, youth organizations, clubs and the general public.