ALBANY — The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced the 2026 Empire Pass is now available for purchase.

The $80 pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to New York State Parks, state boat launch sites, arboretums, park preserves and Department of Environmental Conservation Forest preserves.

Current passholders who renew and keep their card will save $8 per card for the 2026 season. When renewing online, Empire Pass holders will keep their existing physical card or digital pass and not have to wait for one to be mailed or wait in line to purchase one.

Three- and five-season passes are available to new customers for $205 and $320, respectively. The Lifetime Empire Passport, which has no expiration date, can be purchased for $750.

If planning to buy the Empire Pass as a gift, order by Dec. 14 to be sure the pass arrives in time for the holiday season.

Customers can purchase or renew an Empire Passes online at shop.parks.ny.gov or by phone at 518-474-0458.

Seniors age 62 and older are eligible for the Golden Park Program, which provides free entry into state parks on weekdays, excluding holidays, by showing their New York state driver’s license or state-issued non-driver I.D. when entering a park. The Lifetime Liberty Pass allows eligible New York state Veterans or Gold Star Parents, Spouses and Children discounted use of state parks, historic sites and recreational facilities operated by OPRHP and DEC. For more information, visit parks.ny.gov/visit/passes/lifetime-liberty-pass.