2023 was a record year for the number of people who visited Watkins Glen State Park.
According to figures released by the state, the Schuyler County attraction drew more than 1.2 million people last year. In the last twenty years, Watkins Glen State Park has surpassed one million people in attendance with the two previous years being 2019 and 2021
In total, all sites operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation saw a record of 84.1 million visits in 2023. Total visits statewide surged by nearly 4.7 million, a six percent increase, compared to the previous record year in 2022.
Last year marked the 11th consecutive annual increase in State Park attendance, and the 4.7 million jump in visits was the highest annual increase on record. Over the last two decades, state park attendance has climbed steadily, increasing nearly 60 percent.
“These numbers reflect New Yorkers’ strong demand and appreciation for places to swim, hike, camp, gather with friends and family, and enjoy safe, healthy recreation,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “As we celebrate the New York State Park Centennial this year, my administration is committed to keeping this progress going to ensure New Yorkers have access to world-class recreational facilities for years to come.”
State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “State Parks is welcoming many millions more visitors than ever before to see all our improved facilities have to offer. With continued support from Governor Hochul and the hard work of our State Parks team, more exciting projects and programs are coming as we celebrate our State Park Centennial this year, and I am confident we will keep seeing more visitors, who help drive many local economies across the state.”
Highlights of 2023 improvements at State Parks include completing the final phase of a $47 million multi-year project at Hempstead Lake State Park on Long Island with new trails, observation areas and resiliency updates; opening the new $46 million Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Welcome Center at Niagara Falls State Park; a new $6.8 million multi-use trail at Allegany State Park; and $3 million in improvements at Green Lakes State Park in Onondaga County.
