The state’s Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) and Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the launch of the 2022 Outdoor Photo Contest to highlight the best of New York’s natural beauty and special destinations among New York’s state campgrounds and parklands. The online contest runs for four months–through mid-October–with the winning images to be featured in statewide digital and print campaigns.

“With the challenges of the last two years, New York’s parks have drawn more visitors than ever before who are spending time with friends and family among nature,” said State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid. “We encourage people who’ve captured their special moments and memories in our scenic outdoors to submit their favorite images, and we remind visitors planning new day trips and overnight getaways in our parks and campgrounds this season to share those fun adventures as well.”

“As more people enjoy the vast natural treasures here in New York State, we encourage people to snap a picture of those outdoor moments with their family and friends and share them with us,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “Whether it’s hiking a mountain in the Adirondacks, fishing in the Catskills, or birding at a nearby forest or preserve, we’re looking forward to all contest submissions and picking a winner who will receive great prizes in addition to their adventure outdoors.”

The online contest is being held through Oct 15 in partnership with ReserveAmerica.com powered by Aspira, the state’s camping reservation system. A grand prize winner will be selected along with six individual category winners.