New York State Parks and the State Department of Environmental Conservation
(DEC) are partnering to encourage visitors at state parks and other state-owned and -managed lands to enjoy their outdoor
adventure while protecting these precious natural resources. The Love Our New York Lands campaign recognizes the record numbers of New Yorkers and visitors from around the globe who have discovered that the Empire State's scenic
beauty and exceptional recreation make for the perfect destination.
The campaign offers tips to plan ahead, visit responsibly, and practice Leave No Trace™ principles, so that together we can help ensure these special places are protected for future generations. The goal is to provide visitors with the knowledge and tools necessary to reduce their impact, engage users to practice sustainable and safe recreation, and help all visitors feel welcome while visiting state lands.
Check back each season for more information.
There's so much to explore!
With more than 250 parks and historic sites in the New York State park system, there are more than 2,000 miles of trails just waiting to be explored. From easy walks on carriage roads to rugged backcountry treks, chances are you will find a great spot to get outside and soak in the season. Join us on the trail and explore some new scenery. We offer a varying line-up of hikes and walks on both weekdays and weekends.
Love Our New York Lands
- Discover a state park a near you: State Parks
- Plan your trip: State Parks Trail Maps
- New York's longest multi-use trail: The Empire State Trail
NY State Parks Explorer App
Jumpstart your next adventure with our free app. Enjoy quick access to key info all in one place -- park info, directions, hours, fees and rates, interactive trail maps, and helpful know-before-you go details. Plus users can favorite their most-loved places to receive important updates and alerts. Available for both iOS and Android. Learn more
Leave No Trace
While spending time outdoors we all have a responsibility to keep these spaces enjoyable for everyone. To minimizing our impacts that may affect other people, water and wildlife follow the Leave No Trace
principals, an easily understood framework for anyone visiting the outdoors.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the rules for the areas you visit. Bring plenty of water, a jacket and layers in case of changing weather, and a map so you know the route.
- Travel on Durable Surfaces: Follow blazes and stick to established trails. Walking off trail can create unwanted paths, cause erosion, and damage plants.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out what you pack in. Keep our outdoor spaces clean and don't leave behind any trash, food, or pet waste.
- Leave What You Find: Leave rocks, plants and other objects as you find them for the next person to enjoy.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are not allowed outside campgrounds in State Parks. When camping at a designated site, keep fires small and consider a backpacking stove for cooking.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow, approach, or feed wild animals. Keep dogs leashed at all times.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. Avoid loud noises and let nature's sounds prevail. Say hello, be courteous and share the trail!
Leave No Trace video series