Free Pool Access At Some New York State Parks

Indeed it is summer, but did you expect it to be this hot? Swimming in a pool, lake, river, creek, etc. never felt so good right now.

We have plenty of places to enjoy water activities throughout the Southern Tier of New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Maybe you have your own private pool. Lucky you!

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced on July 2nd, that certain New York State parks are offering free pool access this summer. The campaign named “Get Offline, Get Outside” is aimed to "promote physical and mental health by helping New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gathering"s, according to the Governor's Office.

Read More: Take A Summer Trip To The Finger Lakes

In addition to free pool access, Governor Hochul launched a $1.5 million Connect Kids to Swimming Instruction Transportation Grant program to help with transportation to swimming lessons as part of the New York SWIMS initiative.

We’re making it easier for our young people to put down their phones and computers, enjoy time with friends and family, and stay active all across our state. Summer is here – get offline and get outside. - New York State Governor Kathy Hochul

While pool access is free at certain New York State Park pools, regular parking fees continue to apply at State Parks locations that include on-site parking. Governor Hochul has also initiated a pilot program at State Park Pools to offer free sunscreen to help families stay safe in the sun and enjoy the outdoors.

Below, you will find the New York State Parks that are offering the free pool access program for Summer 2024:

Southern Tier

• Watkins Glen State Park Pool – Watkins Glen

Finger Lakes

• Letchworth State Park Pool – Castile

Western New York

• Fort Niagara State Park Pool – Youngstown

Capital Region

• Saratoga Spa State Park Pools (Peerless and Victoria) – Saratoga Springs

Mohawk Valley

• Mine Kill State Park Pool – North Blenheim

Hudson Valley

• Bear Mountain State Park Pool – Bear Mountain
• FDR State Park Pool – Yorktown
• High Tor State Park Pool – New City
• Rockland Lake State Park Pool – Valley Cottage

New York City

• Roberto Clemente State Park Pool – Bronx
• Riverbank State Park Pools (Indoor and Outdoor) – Manhattan

Long Island

• Jones Beach State Park West Bathhouse Pool – Wantagh
• Montauk Downs State Park Pool – Montauk

North Country

• Keewaydin State Park Pool – Alexandria Bay