Golden Park Program - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation (2024)

New York State Golden Park Program

If you are a New York State resident 62 or older, on Monday - Friday (except holidays), you can obtain free vehicle access to most* state parks, boat launch sites and arboretums and fee reduction to state historic sites and state-operated golf courses.

Simply present your currently valid New York State Driver License or New York State Non-Driver Identification Card** at the park entrance. No application is required as your NY State Driver's License/Non-Driver ID Card serves as your pass. For locations with pay stations, please contact the facility directly for information.

For information about facilities where this program is valid, contact the nearest state park,
state park regional office or:

New York State Parks
Albany, New York 12238
518-474-0456
TTY/TDD through 711 Relay Service

*free vehicle access not valid at Walkway Over the Hudson, Earl W. Brydges Artpark, Lake Superior State Park, Fahnestock Winter Park, Mark Twain State Park, Soaring Eagles Golf Course & Ganondagan State Historic Site.

** A New York State Driver License or a New York State Non-Driver Identification Card may be obtained from your local Motor Vehicle office. You may want to contact them first to be certain you bring the required forms of identification.

Golden Park Program - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation (2024)

FAQs

Does NY State Seniors 62 and over get a Golden park Pass? ›

New York State Golden Park Program

If you are a New York State resident 62 or older, on Monday - Friday (except holidays), you can obtain free vehicle access to most* state parks, boat launch sites and arboretums and fee reduction to state historic sites and state-operated golf courses.

How to get a free NYS park pass? ›

The Lifetime Liberty Pass permits residents of New York State who are Veterans or Gold Star Parents, Spouses, or Siblings, free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities.

How much does a New York State park pass cost? ›

Empire Passes start at $80 with discounts available for digital only passes or renewals. Visit shop.parks.ny.gov for pricing. In-person orders are non-refundable and non-returnable. Online orders are final at 11:55PM the day of your order.

What is the NYS park pass for disabilities? ›

The Access Pass allows qualified New York State (NY State) residents with disabilities, as defined in the application, free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NY State Parks) and the NY State Department ...

Do seniors get a discount at NY state parks? ›

Residents of New York State aged 62 and above can enjoy the Golden Park Program, which offers complimentary vehicle access to the majority of state parks, boat launch sites, and arboretums, as well as reduced fees at state historic sites and state-operated golf courses.

What is the difference between a golden age passport and a senior pass? ›

The Senior Pass allows free access and discounts at National Parks and other federal recreation sites. The official name of the Senior Pass is America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. This pass replaced the Golden Age Passport.

Can you get into NY state parks for free? ›

The New York State Empire Pass brings free entry to most NY state parks.

Can veterans get into New York State Parks for free? ›

Overview. The Lifetime Liberty Pass offers various benefits, including free entry to state parks, DEC-operated day-use areas, boat launch sites, historic sites, and more. It also provides perks like free golf at State Park golf courses, access to State Park pools, and discounts on camping and cabin rentals.

What does access pass mean? ›

A free, lifetime pass - available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability (does not have to be a 100% disability) - that provides admittance to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by six Federal agencies.

Can you metal detect in NY state parks? ›

Valid for Long Island State Parks ONLY

Metal Detecting Permit allows access to designated areas for METAL DETECTING at designated Long Island State Park locations. Metal Detecting must be used for HOBBY purposes only and in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by New York State.

Is alcohol allowed in NY state parks? ›

Alcoholic Beverages: While alcoholic beverages are allowed in most NYS campgrounds without a permit, it is the responsibility of each camping party to comply with all laws and regulations. Stony Brook State Park and Beaver Pond Campground prohibit the use of alcohol.

Are US state parks free? ›

Across the country, many state parks waive admission fees for certain groups (like kids, seniors, or military members), while others welcome all visitors for free. Below, we share all the tricks for getting into national parks and state parks in 2024, without opening your wallet.

Where can I use access pass? ›

The card can be used at over 3000 events and venues across the UK and beyond including theme parks (Such as Alton Towers, Drayton Manor and Paultons Park), live Music Events & Venues, Festivals, Museums, Zoo's and much much more… for a full list of providers please visit their Find A Provider page.

How many state parks are in New York State? ›

From the sandy shores of Long Island to mighty Niagara Falls, New York State is home to more than 200 State Parks and Historic Sites, where beautiful views and outdoor adventures await.

What is a golden age passport? ›

The Golden Age Passport is a lifetime entrance pass to those national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas, and national wildlife refuges that charge a Land and Water Conservation Fund Act (LWCFA) entrance fee.

What is the difference between the senior pass and the America the Beautiful pass? ›

A series of passes, including the Senior Pass, all come under the heading of America the Beautiful — the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. Also referred to as Interagency Passes, they can be obtained at a wide range of federal recreation areas or through the USGS online store.

What is the Golden State Park Pass? ›

Golden Bear Pass

Provides free day-use vehicle access for disadvantaged families to over 200 participating state parks.

What age is senior discount in NY? ›

To qualify for reduced fare one must be 65 or older. People with disabilities qualify for reduced fare at any age. For Subways: Purchase Reduced Fare and show your Medicare card or use Reduced Fare Metrocard. For Buses: Pay the reduced fare and show your Medicare card or use Reduced Fare Metrocard.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kimberely Baumbach CPA

Last Updated:

Views: 6078

Rating: 4 / 5 (41 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kimberely Baumbach CPA

Birthday: 1996-01-14

Address: 8381 Boyce Course, Imeldachester, ND 74681

Phone: +3571286597580

Job: Product Banking Analyst

Hobby: Cosplaying, Inline skating, Amateur radio, Baton twirling, Mountaineering, Flying, Archery

Introduction: My name is Kimberely Baumbach CPA, I am a gorgeous, bright, charming, encouraging, zealous, lively, good person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.