Patriot Plan Benefit
The Empire Pass is your key to all-season enjoyment at New York State Parks. It provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most facilities operated by New York State Parks: https://parks.ny.gov/documents/admission/EmpirePassCardGuidelines.pdf and parks operated by the Department of Environmental Conservation https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9174.html
Who is eligible: As stated in New York State's Executive Order 125, issued by the Governor's Office, members of the New York State National Guard or Reserves who are currently serving on active duty in support of the war on terrorism is eligible for one free Empire Pass Card for use by his or her immediate family during deployment and/or for his or her own use when returning home. The member must be a New York State resident.
The Empire Pass Card is available any time of year and is accepted now through December 31st. This wallet-sized card be shared within a household and is not assigned to a specific vehicle.
To qualify for the Patriot Plan, the applicant must be:
- A New York State Resident
- A member of the New York State National Guard or Reserves
- Currently serving on active duty order in support of the war on terrorism (Title 10 or Title 32)
Please Note: Orders for COVID-19 Support, Change of Station or Training do not qualify for this program.
How:
- Complete a Patriot Plan application
- Attach a copy of the orders showing authorization, purpose and type duty code showing active duty in support of the war on terrorism.
- Email the application and copy of the orders to: empirepassport@parks.ny.gov
Or mail to:
New York State Parks
Albany, NY 12238
Once approved, a free Empire Pass Card will be mailed to you, or your current Empire Pass card will be renewed (please indicate on the application). Applications are available online, by mail or at any New York State park. For further assistance please contact our office at 518-474-0458 Monday through Friday.
Note: Annual reapplication, including submission of orders, is necessary as long as this program is offered. Only one free Empire Pass per household.