NEW YORK STATE (WBNG) — New York State is home to nearly 200 state parks, along with hundreds of state boat launching sites and other outdoor areas that New Yorkers and tourists enjoy year-round. Parking can be an issue, and is often a thorn in the side of many who try and enjoy time outside.
For people who frequent the parks and don’t want to worry about those pesky parking fees, New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced the 2026 unlimited day-use vehicle pass for entry into state parks.
The 2026 Empire Pass was announced on Tuesday, Dec. 2, and allows passholders unlimited day-use vehicle entry into New York State Parks, state boat launch sites, arboretums, park preserves, and Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Preserves.
The pass is $80 for new buyers, but current passholders who renew and keep their card will get $8 off per card for the 2026 season.
For those renewing their cards, officials said to keep your physical card or digital passes so you don’t have to wait for a new one in the mail or wait in a line during peak season.
The Empire Pass can be given as a holiday gift, but it has to be ordered by Dec. 14 so that the pass has time to arrive.
Passes can be purchased by visiting the New York State Parks website or by phone at 518-474-0458. Passes for three and five years can be bought for $205 and $320, with the Lifetime Empire Passport available for $750.
Seniors are encouraged to participate in the Golden Park Program, where people 62 or older can get free entry to state parks on weekdays, excluding holidays, but showing their New York State driver’s license or state-issued non-driver ID when entering a park.
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