New York State Welcomes Campers

ALBANY, NY (05/02/2007)(readMedia)-- Carol Ash, Commissioner of New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) announces the opening of state campgrounds for the season and encourages New Yorkers and others who enjoy the great outdoors to explore the state's magnificent camping facilities.

"What better way to see the New York's natural beauty than to spend the night in a state park and sleep under the stars," Ash said. "Whether 'roughing it' at a park campsite or with all of the comforts of home in a cabin or RV, our diverse properties offer something for everyone and we are awaiting your arrival!"

OPRHP oversees 67 campgrounds with more than 8,000 campsites, 800 cabins and 41 vacation rentals. State Parks offer visitors unique and exciting vacation destinations at affordable prices, including water-front camping on the shores of Long Island and the state's spectacular lakes and private sites nestled amidst dramatic scenery throughout the state.

This season, OPRHP is introducing six newly-constructed, full-service vacation rentals at Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park in Otsego County. Each 1,000 square foot, authentic log cabin can accommodate up to eight guests and feature full pine interiors with a selection of handcrafted furniture. The kitchens include dishwashers, microwaves, dishes and utensils, and linens are also provided for guests.

"Be among the first to stay at these spectacular new cabins," Ash encouraged campers. "Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature."

Camping reservations are available through ReserveAmerica, which provides online and phone reservations for campsites throughout New York. Reservations are accepted for campsites and cabins, from one day (changed from two days last season) to nine months in advance of the planned arrival date by calling toll free 1-800-456-CAMP or online, www.ReserveAmerica.com.

Ash also reminded campers to protect state parks from invasive species. Guests are asked not to bring firewood from home, which can cause the spread of disease. Insects can quickly infest and kill large numbers of trees. Parks officials make the following recommendations to campers:

-- Leave firewood at home - do not transport it to campgrounds or parks.

-- Use only firewood from local sources.

-- If you bring firewood, burn ALL of it before leaving your campsite.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 176 state parks and 35 historic sites. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com.

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