when is the shootout in old forge? is it this weekend 8th-10th??

The shoot out is the 8th and it is actually in woodgate, on rt. 28 before you get to Old Forge. The sno-deo is on the 9 & 10th in Old Forge.

Dec. 8 ADIRONDACK SNOWMOBILE SHOOT-OUT - Woodgate, NY. Manufacturer's Challenge at the White Otter Fish & Game Club Property. Turn at the blinking light on Route 28, parking .2 miles on the left. Gates open 8am, first heat at 10am. Admission charged. Sponsored by SnowWeek publications.

Dec. 8 - 10 31st ANNUAL SNODEO - Snodeo is the "kick-off" weekend for the 2006/2007 snowmobile season. On Friday morning, watch the exciting Snowmobile Manufacturer's Challenge in Woodgate, NY, and then Snodeo will be open 4pm-9pm. On Saturday, Snodeo will be open from 10am until 6pm. There will be seminars scheduled, and the 120cc races for our next generation of snowmobilers. Take a chance to win a new snowmobile of your choice from 7 models offered, along with cash prizes and many other giveaways. Top off the evening with our spectacular fireworks display. On Sunday, Snodeo will be opened from 10am until 2pm, with the snowmobile raffle drawing at 1pm. Come to Old Forge for the 31st Annual Snodeo, for more information please call the Town of Webb Visitor Center at 315-369-6983. Sponsored by the Central Adirondack Association

I am assuming most hotels are booked in the OF area. Any ideas on places with availability further South on 28, maybe even back to Forestport???

Don't assume that, contact the visitor center. There is always a room somewhere.

Never been to Snodeo, other than the Shootout, what else is there to do?

Simply if there is no snow, drink your face off at any of the fine establishments,(ie Slickers)
there is also a show going on that weekend and a couple great give aways