ALBANY – State campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill parks officially opened Friday for the summer season.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation operates 52 campgrounds and six day-use areas in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves. The summer camping season runs through Labor Day, with some facilities remaining open during fall foliage and hunting season. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and range from $18 to $28 a night.

“From hiking to fishing, New York’s campgrounds offer some of the best outdoor recreational opportunities in the world,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a press release. “With Memorial Day right around the corner, I encourage residents and visitors alike to plan a trip to one of these campgrounds and experience these beautiful sites for themselves.”

Basil Seggos, acting commissioner of the DEC, said, “Each year millions of people visit DEC facilities to enjoy the spectacular landscapes, lush forests and variety of fish and wildlife species that reside in the constitutionally protected “forever wild” campgrounds. Campers can also enjoy the many events, historical sites and restaurants of nearby towns and villages.”

For more information on DEC-run campgrounds, including a list of them and their schedules, visit www.dec.ny.gov and go to the “Camping” link under the “Outdoors Recreation” section, or call DEC’s Bureau of Recreation at 518-457-2500. To make reservations at any of these camping facilities, call ReserveAmerica at 1-800-456-CAMP (2267) or visit newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.