Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Record attendance at New York state parks in 2024

A black and white illustration depicting various elements representing New York State parks setting attendance records in 2024. In the foreground, there are people enjoying a campground with tents and campfires. To the left, a swimming pool with lanes is visible, with swimmers actively participating. In the background, famous New York historic site landmarks are illustrated, including the Statue of Liberty. Above, an eclipse is prominently featured in the sky, adding a dramatic touch to the scene.
Kat Kollins with Microsoft Copilot
The record attendance milestone was bolstered by special events such as eclipse viewing and celebrations of the park system's centennial anniversary. Free swimming lessons and waived entry fees also contributed to the rise.

New York’s state parks once again set record attendance numbers in 2024. The state says there were 88.3 million visits to parks, historic sites, and campgrounds, four million more than 2023.

Visits were fortified by eclipse viewing and events marking the park system’s centennial anniversary. The state also credits free swimming lessons and entry fees for boosting numbers.

Last year marked the 12th annual increase in visits, and overall attendance has climbed 66% over the past two decades.