Governor Hochul Announces Free Access to State Parks to Help New Yorkers Cool Off
In response to this week’s heat wave, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that admission to all New York State Parks will be free on Wednesday, June 19 and Thursday, June 20. This initiative aims to provide New Yorkers with a safe and cool environment as temperatures are expected to soar.
“Extreme heat can be dangerous for New Yorkers, and I’m doing everything I can to help families stay safe and cool this week,” said Governor Hochul. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of free and early admission to our world-class beaches, pools, and other State Park sites to beat the heat as we expect record temperatures across the state.”
Starting today, regions including Western, Central, Northern New York, and the Capital Region may see temperatures feeling like the low 90s to over 100 degrees through Friday. In response, several beaches and pools have opened early, and cooling features such as sprays and misters are being installed at various State Park locations throughout New York City.
Randy Simons, New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore, expressed support for the initiative, stating, “We are excited to support Governor Hochul’s efforts to help New Yorkers find safe and affordable places to cool off during this week of extreme heat. From Jones Beach on Long Island to Allegany State Park in Western New York, our state park system offers exceptional places to relax in the outdoors. So take a break from this heat by cooling off at one of our incredible beaches or simply relaxing in the shade of our parks.”
Governor Hochul also reminded New Yorkers to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and find cooling centers in their local areas. She emphasized the importance of knowing the symptoms of heat stroke and exhaustion and taking necessary precautions, such as never leaving children or pets unattended in hot cars and signing up for NY alerts for timely updates.
Cooling Features and Early Access Locations
Cooling Features Through Friday in New York City:
- Marsha P. Johnson State Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Roberto Clemente State Park
- Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park (Indoor pool also open)
Early Swimming Access Locations:
Long Island:
- Jones Beach State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
- Hither Hills State Park
- Sunken Meadow State Park
Hudson Valley:
- Lake Welch State Park
- Canopus Lake State Park
- Rockland Lake State Park
- Tallman Mountain State Park
- Bear Mountain State Park
- Lake Tiorati Beach (Harriman State Park)
Capital Region:
- Taconic State Park (Copake Falls Area)
- Lake Taghkanic State Park
- Grafton Lakes State Park
- Moreau Lake State Park
- Thompson’s Lake Campground (Thacher State Park)
Southern Tier:
- Chenango Valley State Park
Central New York:
- Fillmore Glen State Park
- Green Lakes State Park
- Sandy Island Beach State Park
Mohawk Valley:
- Gilbert Lake State Park
- Glimmerglass State Park
- Verona Beach State Park
- Delta Lake State Park
Finger Lakes:
- Seneca Lake State Park Spray Ground
- Sampson State Park (Opened early for the season on Monday)
Western New York:
- Woodlawn Beach State Park
Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy the free access to New York State Parks during this heat wave.
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