The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation began accepting new camping reservations as of June 8, for check-in beginning June 22.
Officials said campers are reminded to practice social distancing, bring and wear a face covering, respect the rules, and do their part to keep the campgrounds, parks and beaches open and safe for everyone. Camping capacity is limited and visitors must make an advance reservation before arriving at a campground.
Reservations are expected to fill quickly. Reservations can be made in advance by calling toll free 1-800-456-CAMP or by visiting newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Online reservations are encouraged.
State Park Police and operations staff are patrolling campgrounds to ensure compliance with social distancing and crowd control measures. Anyone who does not adhere to this guidance will be requested to leave the facility, and will not receive a refund.
Upon check-in, campers will be asked a series of screening questions to determine if they may have been in contact with anyone suffering from COVID-19, or if they have any potential symptoms of COVID-19, including fever or respiratory illness. People who may be at risk will not be permitted to camp, park officials said.
Campground density reduction and social distancing measures will be in effect, including:
No walk-up reservations allowed, each congregate restroom facility will be opened and cleaned per DOH protocols; rest rooms and shower buildings may have reduced capacity and may be closed periodically for cleaning. campground gatherings will be limited to immediate household members only; all campground events and programs are suspended.
Park Social Distancing Ambassadors will monitor campgrounds, picnic areas, beachfronts, lawns, boardwalks and other areas to ensure park guidelines are being met.
COVID related signs have been installed throughout the park system.
State Parks’ beaches and day-use areas are open for visitation across the state. In alignment with NY Forward, beaches, day-use areas and historic sites will return to charging the normal entrance fee of between $6-$10 as regions reach phase 2 of reopening. For information, visit forward.ny.gov/.
Entrance fees may apply. Visitors can purchase a 2020 Season Empire Pass for unlimited day-use entry. Available for $80, the pass is a wallet-sized card that can be shared within a household and not assigned to a specific vehicle. For more details, visit parks.ny.gov/admission/empire-passport/default.aspx
To encourage physical social distancing at popular parks, beaches, trailheads, and scenic areas, several restrictions are in effect, including reduced access on high visitation days State Parks encourage visitors to:
• Visit in small groups limited to immediate household members.
• Maintain distance from others while in places where people tend to congregate, such as parking lots, trailheads, and scenic overlooks.
• Bring and wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained.
• Face coverings are required to be worn anytime you enter a rest room or park office.
• Avoid games and activities that require close contact, such as basketball, football or soccer.
• Avoid playground equipment like slides and swings and other frequently touched surfaces.
• Do not share equipment, such as bicycles, helmets, balls or frisbees.
• If you arrive at a park and crowds are forming, choose a different park, a different trail, or return another time/day to visit; and
• If parking lots are full, do not park along roadsides or other undesignated areas. Choose a different area to visit, or return another time or day when parking is available.
For information and guidance on visiting New York State Parks during the COVID-19 public health crisis, visit parks.ny.gov/covid19/.