The land that is now the Tifft Nature Preserve was originally part of extensive Native American hunting and gathering grounds.

The preserve was temporarily closed in 1983 for removal of hazardous waste by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

The preserve consists of 264 acres (107 ha) of restored habitat, including a cattail marsh.

Public access is provided by five miles of nature trails and three boardwalks with viewing blinds in, and adjacent to, the cattail marsh.

Popular outdoor recreational activities includes birdwatching, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.