Admission is free to State Parks during heat wave today and Thursday

File photo by Tom Rivers: One of the fountains made of Medina Sandstone is shown at Hamlin Beach State Park last summer. The park has opened swimming early this year, beginning today. That only includes Area 3 where there are lifeguards. Swimming is allowed at the beach from 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

 Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that admission to all New York State Parks will be free today and Thursday to help New Yorkers beat the heat this week.

Governor Hochul announced several beaches and pools are temporarily open ahead of the season and cooling features such as sprays and misters are being added at several State Park sites throughout New York City.

“Extreme heat can be dangerous for New Yorkers, and I’m doing everything I can to help families stay safe and cool this week,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of free and early admission to our world class beaches, pools and other State Park sites to beat the heat as we expect record temperatures across the state.”

Record temperatures are possible in Western, Central, Northern New York, and the Capital Region. The “feels like” temperature values could approach the low 90s to over 100 degrees through Friday. Ahead of pools, beaches, and other cooling opportunities at State Park sites opening for the season, the Governor directed several locations to open temporarily this week to help New Yorkers cool down.

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “We are excited to support Governor Hochul’s efforts to help New Yorkers find safe and affordable places to cool off during this week of extreme heat. From Jones Beach on Long Island to Allegany State Park in Western New York, our state park system offers exceptional places to relax in the outdoors. So take a break from this heat by cooling off at one of our incredible beaches or simply relaxing in the shade of our parks.”