Hot Topics    

Snap a photo for the 2022 Outdoor Photo Contest



Enter your best photo today

Enter your best photo today


DEC and NewYork State Parks announced the launch of the 2022 Outdoor Photo Contest to highlight the best of New York's natural beauty and special destinations among the state's campgrounds and parks. The online contest runs through mid-October, with the winning images to be featured in statewide digital and print campaigns. A grand prize winner will be selected along with six individual category winners. Learn more about the photo contest categories and submissions.

Prizes are awarded in six categories:

Photographs taken in other locations not managed by New York State Parks do not qualify.

Camping Life – From cozy bonfires to four-star outdoor dining, tents to campers, string lights to welcome mats, show us your clan’s unique camping style, and personal flair.

Seasonal Spectacular – New York State is beautiful year-round, so send us your images that showcase endless summer, fall foliage, winter wonderlands, or spring fever.

Action & Adventure – Capture the best of you and your ‘squad’ in action, whether on the water, at the beach, on the trail, on the playing fields, along the bike paths, on the links, or wherever you play hard in the parks.

Hiking – We love to see park visitors of all ages and abilities enjoying the trails. Pix of leashed, four-legged companions welcome too!

Views & Vistas – The Empire State is brimming with jaw-dropping, heart-stopping views. Capture and share some of these breathtaking natural settings.

Making Memories – First steps, learning to swim, fish tales, family bonding, old friends, new friends, marriage proposals, and more! Share your milestones and special memories.

Prizes are: One (1) grand prize consisting of $1,000 REI gift card, one (1) 4-person tent, one (1) 2023 Empire Pass, and one (1) $250 NY camping gift card. The approximate aggregate value of the grand prize is one thousand eight hundred and thirty dollars. ($1,830).

Six (6) category prize packages (one winner selected from each category below) consisting of one (1) $250 REI gift card, one (1) 2023 Empire Pass, and one (1) $100 NY camping gift card. The approximate aggregate value of the category prize is four hundred and thirty dollars. ($430).

Click here to submit your entry.

Find the best places to take photos here



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Nourish family connections with every bite

    Boost social, emotional and physical health with egg-inspired recipes

    Dine together, shine together. Weekly sit-down meals with family can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel more connected – all while sharing delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare food. read more »
  • Lasers: A safer alternative to weight-loss drugs?

    Information to help you make the decision that is right for you

    Weight-loss drugs have skyrocketed in popularity because of their quick results and use among celebrities and influencers. J.P. Morgan predicts that by 2030, 30 million Americans will use them. read more »
  • Recipe of the week November 4

    Find comfort in a one-pot pie

    That first day of chilly weather always feels the coldest before you’re accustomed to it, and an easy, warm, filling meal can help hit the spot. Better yet, this rendition of Shepherd’s Pie is made with just one pot so cleanup can be a snap. read more »
  • Aim for healthier hydration with a habit-building beverage

    Try this yummy and easy to make smoothie

    Begin building tiny, healthier practices into routines you already have to help make it easier to establish habits you can stick to. This concept is called “habit stacking,” and it can help you improve habits from morning to night. read more »
  • Please pumpkin lovers with a twist on a fall favorite

    A simple, easy to prepare dessert

    Apple, cherry and blueberry crumbles may get all the adoration, but when fall comes around, you may as well lean into the flavor of the season: pumpkin. This simple dessert satisfies the sweet tooth with some fiber to boot. read more »
  • Take the stress out of winter travel

    What you need to know

    While there’s plenty to appreciate about winter travel, including picturesque scenery and festive moments with loved ones, the season brings a unique set of challenges, too. However, you can take steps to manage potential stress as you prepare for a seasonal journey. read more »
  • Celebrate cozy season with a creamy, comforting meal

    Super soup that is easy to make

    A snug sweater, a crackling fire and a meal that warms you from the inside out are perfect ways to spend a cool autumn evening with the people you love. read more »
  • Simple, flavorful fall dessert

    A yummy recipe your family will love

    If your family’s taste buds have grown tired of apple-inspired fall desserts, simply look toward another quintessential autumn flavor: pumpkin. Quick and easy to prepare using a spice cake mix that provides all the flavor without the stress, this cake can be dressed to impress at a fall gathering or served after weeknight dinner. read more »
  • A go-to sweet potato side

    Treat yourself and your family to this simple dish

    Sweet potatoes seem to scream “fall,” especially this roasted version that pairs well with a wide variety of family favorites like fried chicken. It can be your go-to recipe when comfort cravings call for a savory (not sweet) side. read more »
  • Keep cold and flu season at bay

    4 top tips from experts

    It doesn’t take much for cold and flu symptoms to take over. Even a mild case of the sniffles can make navigating everyday life's demands difficult. It’s virtually impossible to avoid germs altogether, but you can ensure you’re ready to fight off an infection, whether a minor cold or a full-blown case of the flu. read more »