November 18, 2011

Free gift card when buying NY state park pass on Nov. 28 and 29

Give the gift of New York's best green spaces with an Empire Passport, which provides annual unlimited State Park vehicle access or a camping gift card that can be redeemed at a New York State Park-operated campground.

"If you have someone who loves the outdoors on your gift-giving list this holiday season, State Parks has easy and affordable gift ideas," said State Park Commissioner Rose Harvey. "Our gift cards and Empire Passport help outdoor enthusiasts to unwrap adventure at New York's incredible parks and campgrounds."

As a special one-time offer, anyone who purchases the $65 Empire Passport on-line at www.nysparks.com on 'Cyber Monday,' from midnight Nov. 28 to midnight Nov. 29, will receive a free camping gift card worth $25. Gift Cards and Empire Passports may also be purchased anytime by calling 518-474-0458 during regular business hours, or visiting a local state park or regional office. To ensure holiday delivery, phone and website orders must be received by December 15, 2011.

The $65 Empire Passport offers unlimited vehicle access to New York State Parks for all four seasons. Valid through March 31, 2013, Empire Passport holders avoid the daily $6-$10 vehicle entry fee to upwards of 250 state-operated parks, recreation areas, boat launch sites, arboretums and forest preserve sites.

The camping gift card can be used for campsites, cabins or cottages at nearly 70 beautiful State Park campgrounds operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Gift Cards can be purchased for any dollar amount and have no expiration date. The gift card is not available for state campgrounds in the Adirondacks and Catskills.