The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on Friday 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.
“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,” Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “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.”
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:
Catskills
Kenneth L. Wilson Campground & Day Use Area
Little Pond Campground & Day Use Area
North South Lake Campground & Day Use Area
Adirondacks
Ausable Point Campground & Day Use Area
Buck Pond Campground & Day Use Area
Cranberry Lake Campground & Day Use Area
Fish Creek Pond Campground & Day Use Area
Frontier Town Campground, Equestrian & Day Use Area
Lewey Lake Campground & Day Use Area
Luzerne Campground & Day Use Area
Meacham Lake Campground & Day Use Area
Moffitt Beach Campground & Day Use Area
Nicks Lake Campground & Day Use Area
Northampton Beach Campground & Day Use Area
Rogers Rock Campground & Day Use Area
Apply for the 2024 program via this form. Applications must be received by Feb. 1, 2024. To view volunteer criteria and the full details of the program, visit DEC’s website or call 518-457-2500 x1.
