May 28, 2008
NEW York officially opened all its campgrounds before the Memorial Day weekend, and with them you can use the new natural resource maps that will increase your outdoor experience.
New York's DEC says all their campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks are officially open.
This year, campsite reservations have soared, with an increase of more than 15 percent from last year and no doubt due to soaring gas prices keeping everyone closer to home rather than long cross country travels.
The DEC operates 52 campgrounds and seven day-use areas in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves. The summer camping season runs through Labor Day, with some facilities remaining open during fall foliage and hunting season.
Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and range from $16-$22 a night.
For more information on DEC-operated campgrounds, trywww.dec.ny.gov and go to the Camping link under the Outdoors Recreation section, or call DEC's Bureau of Recreation at (518) 457-2500.
To make reservations at any of these camping facilities, call ReserveAmerica at (800) 456-CAMP (2267) or visit www.newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
One important reminder this year, do not transport firewood to campgrounds or parks in order to limit the spread of invasive insect species.
