From its genesis as an agricultural and mining community, the Putnam Valley area was eventually discovered by New York City residents and developed as a scenic vacation escape.  Today, Putnam Valley is almost exclusively a bedroom community.  This lovely wooded region of hills and valleys is easily accessible via the scenic Taconic State Parkway.  Although the area has no incorporated villages, Putnam Valley does operate its own school district and offers a public library as well as several houses of worship.  A number of distinct communities have sprung up over the decades around many of the waterfront areas such as Oscawana, Lake Peekskill, Canopus, and Peekskill Hollow Creeks.  In addition to water sports, other recreational amenities include first-rate facilities and organized activities for all ages.