Discover the outdoors in a whole new way with the NY State Parks Explorer App. It is your one-stop mobile companion. Use it for planning family-friendly adventures across New York! It’s free, fun, and perfect for busy parents looking to make outdoor days easy and memorable.

🌟 Why Parents Will Love This App

• Effortless Trip Planning – Find nearby parks, historic sites, playgrounds, trails, and beaches. They are all sorted by distance and amenity type. This way, you can choose what fits your day best.
• Live & Offline Maps – Navigate trails even when Wi-Fi fails. Turn on GPS to see your path in real time. Access mileage info, topography, and satellite views.
• Know Before You Go – Get crucial info like hours, fees, and events. Discover camping options, alerts, and park-specific details. This ensures you avoid surprises on Google Play.
• Empire Pass Made Easy – Add your Empire or Liberty Pass to the app wallet. Enjoy hassle-free digital access at park gates..
• Family-Centric Features – Discover curated lists like “Connect Kids,” “Hidden Gems,” and “Historic Sites.” Explore themed events that are tailored for all ages.
• Event Discovery & Booking – Use the built-in events calendar. Find and RSVP to nature programs, concerts, and guided hikes.

✅ Top Tips for Families

1. Download Maps for Offline Use
   Before hitting the trails, download your park’s offline map to stay on course—even in no-signal zones
2. Save Your Favorites
   Tap the ❤️ icon on parks you love to get alerts about closures, events, or special programming
3. Use GPS While Hiking
   Enable location services to track where you are on the map—perfect for little legs on long or winding trails
4. Link Your Empire Pass
   Digitally store your pass in the app wallet. This allows for quick and smooth entry. There is no need to carry the physical card.
5. Explore Kids’ Programs
   Search the “Connect Kids” category. Use the events calendar to find guided nature talks, workshops, scouts, and family weekends
6. Plan Camping or Cottage Stays
   Use the app to book campsites or cottages directly—and check availability without extra apps or websites New York State Parks
7. Switch Map Views
   Toggle between satellite view, topography, or street maps to help explain the terrain to curious kids.
8. Browse Curated Lists
   Discover hidden wonders, playgrounds, historic sites, and easy hikes—perfect for impromptu family outings.
9. Set Event Alerts
   Find seasonal events like summer concerts, paddle nights, and guided walks. RSVP in-app and add to your calendar .
10. Prep with “Know Before You Go”
11. 
    Check alerts, closures, parking tips, and seasonal DOs and DON’Ts before heading out.

🎯 Getting Started

1. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play (free!) New York State Parks
2. Browse your region or search “Long Island” to uncover nearby family-friendly gems.
3. Tap a park to explore trails, events, amenities, offline maps, and ticket options.
4. Add your Empire Pass, events, and favorite parks to customize your experience.

Embrace outdoor family fun with confidence, convenience, and enrichment—right from your pocket. Enjoy a quick nature break, a playground afternoon, or a camping weekend. The NY State Parks Explorer App makes every outing smoother. It ensures outings are safer and more fun for everyone.

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