Dear Visitor:

Welcome to New York’s state parks and historic sites. Let our website be your guide to the diverse heritage of the Empire State.

Here at the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation we are the proud stewards of New York’s dynamic natural, recreational and historic resources and we look forward to sharing them with you.

New York is a nature-lover’s delight. From the Hudson Highlands to the Tug Hill Plateau; the ocean beaches of Long Island to the shores of the Great Lakes; the forests of Allegany to precious urban greenspaces in Manhattan; New York’s nearly 200 state parks have it all! Whether you want to experience the peace and quiet of nature at one of our more than 8,000 campsites, or with the comforts of home in a full-service cottage, make a state park your next vacation destination.

Four fantastic seasons offer ample recreational opportunities for year-round enjoyment. New York is home to an extensive trail network for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. With swimming pools, sandy beaches, playing fields, marinas, interpretive programming, concerts, festivals and views for miles, there is something for everyone. And don’t forget our 28 golf courses, including the famed Bethpage Black. So pack your gear and come spend some time with us.

And while you’re exploring, check out the history too! With 35 state historic sites, New York’s remarkable past comes alive for visitors. Visit one of the many 18th and 19th century forts and battlegrounds across the state. Or, while traveling our state’s rivers and waterways, find out about New York’s role as a commercial hub of early America. Learn about our State Historic Preservation Office, which helps local communities identify, evaluate, preserve and revitalize their historic, archeological and cultural resources.

So take some time and examine this window through which you can look, learn and discover all that New York has to offer. And then, come and experience the real thing!

Sincerely,

Carol Ash, Commissioner
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation