ALBANY, N.Y. — A record 88.3 million people visited state parks, historic sites, campgrounds, and trails operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) in 2024.
Total visits statewide increased by more than 4 million, a 5 percent rise from the previous record year in 2023, the office of Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Monday.
The governor’s office said the state’s investment in the park system’s 100th anniversary last year, the 2024 total solar eclipse viewing events that broke state tourism records, and Hochul’s free-swimming initiatives contributed to the attendance rise.
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“This new attendance record is a result of our commitment to expanding opportunities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy safe, healthy recreation, whether it’s through swimming, hiking, camping, or gathering to take in our world-class vistas, beaches and waterfalls,” Hochul said in the announcement. “We are fortunate that our state parks offer a much-needed break from the addictive digital landscape many are exposed to, and with my ‘Unplug and Play’ strategy, we are going to make sure even more New Yorkers and future generations have access to phenomenal recreational facilities in their state parks and in their own communities.”
Over the last two decades, State Parks’ attendance has climbed steadily, increasing 66 percent, with last year marking the 12th straight annual increase, Hochul’s office noted.
