Free Entry At New York State Parks

While indoor spaces are closed at NYS Parks due to the coronavirus, the grounds and trails are open during daylight hours.

To prevent community spread of COVID-19, all DEC environmental education centers, hatcheries, restrooms, and other indoor public facilities are closed. All the grounds and trails* are open to the public free of charge during daylight hours, seven days a week. Please continue to follow the CDC/NYSDOH's guidelines for preventing the spread of colds, flu, and COVID-19 by keeping at least six feet of distance between you and others.

Getting outdoors and connecting with nature is a way to help maintain our mental and physical health. Scientific studies show that time outside in nature, especially among trees, significantly reduces stress and anxiety, lowers blood pressure, improves mood, energy, and sleep, and boosts the immune system which is a big plus during the current COVID-19 public health crisis,

The DEC encourages families to visit the education webpage to find activities to help explore nature and fun outdoor activities under "Kids G.O (Get Outside)" and "Nature Activities," plus lesson plans on a variety of topics for different grade levels in "Educator Lesson Plans" and "Hudson River Lesson Plans." Also, students can read about nature in "Conservationist for Kids."

Keep up on the latest coronavirus news by clicking on 'Coronavirus Cancellations' and 'Coronavirus' in the Trending Bar. Make sure to download our app and turn on notifications.

*State Lands and facilities are monitored by DEC Forest Rangers, and any interactions will incorporate social distancing. DEC recommends avoiding busy trailheads. Find the trails less traveled and visit when trails may not be as busy during daylight hours.