The New York State Parks Department announced that it is
offering a sale on the 2018 annual Empire Pass Card, which
is replacing the Empire Pass Decal. Currently available online only, the 2018
Empire Pass Card is how residents can enjoy
the more than 250 individual state parks, historic sites, recreational trails,
boat launches and more throughout New York.
The Empire Pass Card provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to state parks,
Department of Environmental Conservation forest
preserves, boat launch sites, arboretums and park preserves.
The Empire Pass Card is a wallet-sized plastic card that can be shared among
family members. It is presented upon vehicle
entry and includes QR code and embedded chip technology to allow for easier park
access at select facilities.
From now through March 31, 2018, the card is on sale for $65. After the sale,
the card will be available for its regular price of $80.
Residents can also purchase multi-year cards. A three-year Empire Pass is $205,
the five-year is $320, and a lifetime pass is $750.
The lifetime pass isn't a separate card, but an icon that is placed on your
driver's license or state ID.
The former Empire Pass decal, which was not shareable and required attachment to
one vehicle, will no longer be offered.
All 2017 Empire Pass decals will be accepted through their expiration on March
31, 2018.
The 2018 Empire Pass Card is available online only and will be available inside
the parks in January.
All products can be purchased online at
www.parks.ny.gov
