DEC announces 2024 program for new campers

ALBANY — New York families who have never experienced camping will have the opportunity to try camping and other outdoor recreational activities by signing up for a well-stocked campsite at a campground selected managed by DEC for a designated weekend this summer with the return of the Popular New Camper Program for the 2024 season.

“DEC’s Introductory Program for New Campers is back, and I’m honored to welcome even more New Yorkers to experience the great campgrounds of the Adirondacks and Catskills,” said Acting Commissioner Sean Mahar .

“The New Camper Program is a great way to get more New Yorkers outdoors and discover the unparalleled natural beauty of the Empire State with the help of Camping Ambassadors who help new campers campers with all the basics. The program gives those who have never camped before the opportunity to sleep under the stars and enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, boating, bird watching and even more.

The New York State New Camper Program makes camping easier by providing a turnkey camping experience for families, especially those in underserved communities who may not be familiar with camping or planning and supplies needed to ensure the most enjoyable experience.

DEC will provide campers with a tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, camping chairs, a lantern and firewood for a weekend of fun. Sanitary facilities and hot showers are located a few steps from the campsites.

A Camp Ambassador will meet camp participants and help them set up camp with a Camping 101 lesson. To make the weekend getaway even more enjoyable, campers will have the opportunity to learn from experts how fishing, hiking, bird watching, paddling and more, all while having fun and creating unforgettable memories.

Learn more about some of the hundreds of campers who have already participated in the First-Time Camper program by watching videos on the DEC website — https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/camping .

Potential first-time campers are encouraged to enter the lottery from June 13 to June 20. Participants will then be selected at random to occupy camper sites. Further information about the program can be found by visiting the DEC website.

Lottery entrants must choose a property from participating Adirondack and Catskills locations:

– North South Lake Campground (Catskills) – July 12-14

– Ausable Point Campground (Adirondacks) – July 19-21

– Luzerne Campground (Adirondacks) – July 26-28

– Cranberry Lake Campground (Adirondacks) – August 2 to 4

– Northampton Beach Campground (Adirondacks) – August 9-11

– Mongaup Pond Campground (Catskills) – August 16-18

– Kenneth L. Wilson Campground (Catskills) – August 23-25

For more information about DEC-operated campgrounds, including a list of campgrounds and hours, visit the DEC website or call the DEC Recreation Office at 518-457-2500. To make reservations at any of these camping facilities, call ReserveAmerica at 1-800-456-CAMP (2267) or visit https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com. The First Time Camping Program is offered by the Adventure NY initiative and the DEC Operations Division. , which support making strategic investments to expand access to healthy and active outdoor recreation; connect more New Yorkers and visitors to nature and the outdoors; protect natural resources; and stimulate local economies. Learn more about the Adventure NY initiative on the DEC website —https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/camping.