State officials said last week that visitation to parks, historic sites, campgrounds and trails has increased significantly in recent years, reaching a record 84.1 million in 2023.

Last year's visitation marked the 11th consecutive annual increase, and a 6 percent hike from 2022, which was also a record year.

"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," Gov. Kathy Hochul said.

State officials have made significant investments in recent years to improve infrastructure and enhance the quality of park experiences. These improvements include the completion of a multi-year project at Hempstead Lake State Park on Long Island, which included the addition of new trails, observation areas and resiliency updates. The new Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Welcome Center at Niagara Falls State Park has also recently opened, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the historic falls.

These improvements include the completion of a multi-year project at Hempstead Lake State Park on Long Island, which included the addition of new trails, observation areas and resiliency updates. The new Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Welcome Center at Niagara Falls State Park has also recently opened, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the historic falls.

The state parks office is committed to continuing its work to preserve and enhance New York's parks, historic sites and recreational opportunities for future generations. The ongoing Centennial Challenge initiative is encouraging visitors to complete 24 activities from a list of 100 to win a prize, celebrating the park system's rich history and natural beauty along the way.