Never Been Camping? NYDEC Will Help You Try For Free

If you’ve always wanted to try camping but didn’t know where to start, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is bringing back a program that makes it easy.

It’s called the First-Time Camper Program, and it’s ideal for anyone curious about the outdoors who doesn’t yet have the necessary gear or experience.

Now in its seventh year, the program offers selected participants a free weekend at a DEC-run campground in the Adirondacks or Catskills. Everything is provided: a tent, sleeping bags, chairs, a lantern, even firewood.

You just show up, and a friendly Camping Ambassador will be there to walk you through the basics, from setting up your tent to enjoying the great outdoors.

The program includes plenty of ways to explore nature, like hiking, fishing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing by the lake. Clean bathrooms and hot showers are just a short walk from the campsites, so you don’t have to rough it too much.

To take part, enter the lottery before July 3. You’ll need to choose one of the participating campgrounds and dates:
Luzerne Campground, Adirondacks — July 11-13
Mongaup Pond Campground, Catskills — July 18-20
Cranberry Lake Campground, Adirondacks — July 25-27
Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, Catskills — August 1-3
North South Lake Campground, Catskills — August 8-10
Meacham Lake Campground, Adirondacks — August 15-17
Northampton Beach Campground, Adirondacks — August 22-25

Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful escape, this is a great way to ease into camping with a little support. To enter or learn more, visit the DEC website.