Lottery Opens For First-timers To Enjoy New York Camping

Like many others, I love this time of the year for one reason - camping. This activity has been a part of my life for decades.

Camping can mean many things- roughing it with very few supplies deep in the woods, and tent camping with the usual things that make the adventure fun, There's also Glamping, which is a step above the traditional tent on the ground camping with some of the luxuries of home, and finally the camper/RV style of camping, which may sound like cheating, but as long as it's out in the country or a campground, it's still a fun adventure away from home.

Read More: Binghamton Area Local News Recap Keeps You Updated

Maybe you have thought about trying the camping thing, but haven't taken that next step, or you're not sure what direction to take. Well, check this out.

NYS DEC First Time Camper Program

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced the popular First Time Camper Program for 2026.

This program is designed to make camping easy for first-timers, including those from underserved communities who have never camped before.

How Does It Work?

New York State residents who are interested can enter the First-Time Camper lottery until June 12, 2026. Choose one facility from participating locations in the Adirondacks and Catskills from the list below for the first-time camping experience:

• Meacham Lake Campground (Adirondacks) – July 10-12
• Kenneth L. Wilson Campground (Catskills) – July 17-19
• Ausable Point Campground (Adirondacks) – July 24-26
• Northampton Beach Campground (Adirondacks) – July 31-August 2
• Mongaup Pond Campground (Catskills) – August 7-9
• Nicks Lake Campground (Adirondacks) – August 14-16
• Luzerne Campground (Adirondacks) – August 21-23

DEC is excited to once again welcome first-time campers into our great Adirondack and Catskill campgrounds. Our successful First-Time Camper program gives New Yorkers who never camped before the opportunity to experience outdoor activities like camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and birding. Sign up for the lottery today to participate in this excellent way to get outdoors with all the basics covered.” - NYS DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton

The NYS DEC notes that participants will be randomly selected to fill the 2026 camper slots.

Check out the DEC video below to learn about the program, and if you need any additional information, visit the NYS DEC website.