Hot Topics     Home and Family    

Every Kid in a Park special pass for 4th graders



DEC accepting National Park Service pass at all NYS and National Parks

Every Kid in a Park special pass for 4th graders

DEC will accept the National Park Service's (NPS) Every Kid Outdoors Pass upon presentation for free entry for 4th grade students into all facilities in 2022. The pass applies only to the vehicle entry fee, and the 4th grader must be present in the vehicle.

This is a pilot program as part of a series of initiatives to encourage youth visitation to state parks, historic sites and public lands. Fourth grade students can obtain and print their pass on the NPS website.

Watch their YouTubeplaylist for how-tos and inspiration.

Most DEC campgrounds also have day use areas for the public to enjoy. DEC also operates a number of day use-only areas that offer picnicking and/or swimming facilities. Please be advised that pets are prohibited at all DEC day use area.

Many DEC Campgrounds are situated on bodies of water and provide access for paddlers. Most campgrounds also offer canoe, rowboat, and/or kayak rentals.

Fees for day use (FREE with Kid in a Park Pass) areas are:

  • $6.00, $8.00 or $10.00 per car
  • $3.00, $4.00 or $5.00 per motorcycle
  • $35.00, $50.00 or $75.00 per bus
  • $2.00 per person (for walking into a facility)

Camping Guide Maps

See an interactive version of the guide (leaves DEC website)
Download the camping guide (PDF) (14.2 MB) *Please note this is a large file.

For easier download, they have broken up the file into 4 smaller sections:

General Rules & Guidelines

  • The pass is for fourth-grade students for the 2022 Parks operating season (expires December 31, 2022).
  • The fourth-grade student must be present when the pass is presented.
  • The pass covers the vehicle use fee at all DEC facilities.
  • The pass does not cover amenities such as camping or rentals.
  • Students cannot transfer the pass to anyone else.
  • Electronic versions of the paper pass cannot be accepted.
  • There is no way to request a refund if the pass is not presented.
  • The pass should be presented upon entry where park staff will welcome the 4th grader and his/her family and provide the car with a no-fee receipt for the car dashboard. The federal pass remains with the student.
  • Other exclusions may apply.



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • 5 tips to help you land a new job

    A solid interview can help you close the deal

    With so many job openings these days, you may think you’ll have an easy time sliding into a new role. Not so fast. Because of the huge number of options available and plenty of workers contemplating changes, you’re likely to encounter some competition to land the job you want. read more »
  • Healthy habits for your home

    5 tips to help you out

    If you’re like most Americans, health is an important aspect of your resolutions when each new year rolls around. While factors like diet and exercise are keys to healthy living, so are the ways you care for your home and belongings. read more »
  • 5 heart health tips for the holidays

    Keep your family safe during this festive season

    Food, drinks, gifts and time with family make the holidays a merry occasion for people across the country. However, all that celebrating can sometimes become a distraction from maintaining heart health. read more »
  • 10 health resolutions doctors encourage you to make today

    These actions you can take are some of the most important

    The New Year represents a fresh start and is the perfect time to invest in your health. However, you may be unsure what resolutions will have the biggest impact. Doctors say that the easy, tangible actions you take are some of the most important. read more »
  • 4 reasons to consider adopting a pet

    Pets can be a key source of comfort and joy

    More than 23 million American households added a four-legged family member over the last three years, according to data from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Through these trying times, pets have been a key source of comfort and joy – even improving pet parents’ overall wellbeing. read more »
  • Make a difference for children globally this holiday season

    Your gift can make a real impact for a child

    The most meaningful gifts are rarely the ones that can be wrapped and found under a tree. This holiday season, gifts can go beyond just thoughtful presents for family, friends and loved ones and can make real impact for children globally. read more »
  • Must-have tools for entertaining with ease this holiday season

    Having the right tools will set you up for success

    ‘Tis the season for gatherings galore. Whether you’re an all-star entertainer or a first-time host, having the right tools will set you up for success—meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. read more »
  • 5 tips to ace college entry exams

    Prepping for ACT and SAT exams is crucial

    Because most colleges and universities require applicants to submit ACT or SAT results as part of admissions consideration, prepping for the test itself can be a critical component of that process. read more »
  • Fun ways to foster a love of music at an early age

    4 great ways to get your kids interested

    It’s never too early to encourage children to love to make and appreciate music. read more »
  • Festive recipes for hosting an inclusive holiday gathering

    2 delicious recipes for you to try

    Memories made and recipes shared are the trademarks of a successful holiday gathering, and this year, you can host your way to a practically perfect party with delicious dishes that resonate with the flavors of the season. read more »