NEW YORK CITY (WABC) — New Yorkers can spend a night camping in city parks for free through a New York City Parks program that provides tents, campfires, s’mores and overnight supervision.<\/p>\n
The experience is available through a lottery run by the Parks Department, with about 900 to 1,000 people selected each summer to camp in participating parks.<\/p>\n
Campers don’t need to bring a tent. Parks staff set up the campsites, build campfires, lead nature walks and provide s’mores.<\/p>\n
“We build a fire, we bring the s’mores, we take them on a nature walk at night and we tell them a scary story,” NYC Parks Ranger Alex Pressman said.<\/p>\n
The campfires are started without matches, a demonstration Pressman said often surprises both children and adults.<\/p>\n
Participants only need to bring bedding or a sleeping bag. The rest of the camping experience, including the tent, is provided at no cost.<\/p>\n
“We will provide the tent for you. You bring bedding or a sleeping bag and you have this incredible experience for free,” NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura said.<\/p>\n
Rangers stay on duty throughout the night to supervise the campsites and ensure campers’ safety.<\/p>\n
“We’re up all night with you. We’re not allowed to sleep. We’re on duty, so we’re keeping an eye on things and keeping everybody safe,” NYC Parks Ranger Ginny Renjilian said.<\/p>\n
Public restrooms are also opened overnight for campers.<\/p>\n
The program takes place at several parks, including Inwood Hill Park, Central Park, Marine Park and Alley Pond Park.<\/p>\n
Officials said the overnight camping program offers participants a unique opportunity to experience New York City’s parks after dark. Participation is free, but campers must be selected through the NYC Parks lottery.<\/p>\n
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