2008-2009 New York State Empire Passports Now Available

ALBANY, NY (12/07/2007)(readMedia)-- New York State Parks Commissioner Carol Ash today encouraged New Yorkers to consider an Empire Passport for holiday gift giving. The Empire Passport is the annual pass that offers unlimited vehicle access to New York State Parks, including Jones Beach State Park, Robert Moses State Park, Green Lakes State Park, Beaver Island State Park, Evangola State Park and Saratoga Spa State Park.

“The Passport is an ideal gift for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone who enjoys the many sports, recreational, and leisure activities at our parks. The passport offers the gift of nature, recreation and fun throughout the year,” said Ash.

The $59 Passport, valid from April 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009, provides access to upwards of 200 state-operated parks, recreation areas, boat launch sites, arboretums and park preserves, including forest preserves operated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation. Anyone who purchases an Empire Passport can purchase a second Passport at the same time for a vehicle in the same household at a discounted price of $50.

The Empire Passport can be ordered on-line at www.nysparks.com; or purchased at a local state park or regional office; or by calling 518-474-0458.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 178 state parks, 35 historic sites, 29 golf courses and 77 developed beaches. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com.

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