08/25/2026
New York ✨📣✨
Did you know that New York State has created a new "Access Pass" that allows qualified New York State residents with mental illness free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities?
This initiative is aimed at helping New Yorkers with qualified disabilities to improve mental wellbeing and community connection by spending time outdoors.
This new Access Pass offers free or discounted entry to state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities –including ones operated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation – for New York residents with a specific qualifying disability listed in the application.
The Access Pass includes free vehicle entry to most day-use areas, state-operated boat launch sites, historic sites, arboretums, and park preserves, in addition to free greens fees at State Park golf courses; free swimming pool entry at state-operated pools; and discounted camping and cabin rentals at most state campgrounds and DEC day-use areas.
You can learn more about how to apply for the Access Pass here: https://parks.ny.gov/visit/passes/access-pass.
