April 03, 2026

New Yorkers Encouraged to Sign Up for the 15th Annual 'I Love My Park' Day

Participants Will Celebrate New York’s Public Lands by Volunteering in Cleanup and Stewardship Events Throughout the State

Registration is now open for the 15th annual I Love My Park Day, which will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at state parks, historic sites and public lands all across New York State. The event, a partnership between Parks & Trails New York, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the Department of Environmental Conservation, is the largest statewide volunteer event to enhance parks, historic sites and public lands and raise awareness and visibility to the state outdoor recreation assets and their needs.

Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC is proud to steward nearly five million acres of public lands that provide unending benefits from water quality to unmatched recreational opportunities for New Yorkers. I Love My Park Day events are perfect opportunities for public stewards, volunteers, and friends of the environment to get outside and give back to New York’s special places. Together, we can preserve and protect our incredible public lands to ensure they remain vibrant community spaces for generations to come.”

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “Our volunteers play an essential role in keeping New York’s State Parks and public lands welcoming, accessible, and ready for all to enjoy. I Love My Park Day is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together through stewardship and service. We’re grateful to our partners at Parks & Trails New York and look forward to welcoming thousands of volunteers across the state this year.”

Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White said, “Every great park has a story shaped by the people who care for it, and I Love My Park Day invites you to be part of that story. When you volunteer, you help keep these places vibrant and welcoming for everyone. Join thousands of New Yorkers and add your chapter to our state's growing tradition of public lands stewardship.”

Volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in cleanup events at over 120 state parks, historic sites and public lands from Long Island to Western New York and covering all regions in between, including sites operated by the Department of Environmental Conservation and municipal parks. Register for I Love My Park Day.

Volunteers will celebrate New York's public lands by cleaning up debris, planting trees and gardens, restoring trails and wildlife habitats, removing invasive species and working on various site improvement projects.

I Love My Park Day compliments Governor Hochul’s Get Offline, Get Outside initiative which encourages New York kids and families to log off of their phones and put their mental and physical health first as they head outside to get fresh air, play sports, enjoy nature, and see everything else our state has to offer.

About New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation manages five million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve, 55 campgrounds and day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers. Plan your next outdoor adventure and connect with @NYSDEC on social media.

About Parks & Trails New York
Parks & Trails New York is New York's leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving our health, economy, and quality of life through the use and enjoyment of green space for all. With thousands of members and supporters across the state, PTNY is a leading voice in the protection of New York's magnificent state park system and the creation and promotion of more than 1,500 miles of greenways, bike paths, river walks and trails. More information can be found on the Parks & Trails New York website.

About New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 86 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation website, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call (518) 474-0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.

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