The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the start of the 2024 application period for the Campground Ambassador program, which helps connect New Yorkers and visitors with the outdoors. Like other campground host programs, volunteer Campground Ambassadors assist DEC staff in welcoming and assisting the millions of visitors to state campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks each year. DEC encourages New Yorkers who are passionate about camping and the outdoors to help introduce new campers to DEC facilities and outdoor recreation.
Commissioner Basil Seggos said by introducing new visitors to DEC campgrounds, state lands, and sites and offering fun and exciting programming for campers, DEC’s Campground Ambassador program is inspiring the next generation of outdoor adventurers and environmental stewards. During the 2023 season, Campground Ambassadors helped DEC enhance the visitor experience at our facilities with fun, educational, and meaningful programming opportunities. I encourage New Yorkers with a passion for camping and the outdoors to join the DEC team as we connect visitors to nature for generations to come, he said.
DEC operates 51 campgrounds and four day-use areas in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves. The camping season runs through the summer months; some facilities remain open during fall foliage and hunting seasons.
Campground Ambassadors serve two weeks during the DEC’s core camping season (July through Labor Day). Ambassadors also aid in connecting campers and day users to nature via environmentally themed activities and programming. In consideration for services provided, DEC provides a campsite for the duration of the Ambassador’s stay at one of the following participating locations in the Catskills: Kenneth L. Wilson Campground & Day Use Area, Little Pond Campground & Day Use Area, and North South Lake Campground & Day Use Area.
