Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced improvements to the Kenneth L. Wilson Campground in historic Woodstock, New York, under the State's Adventure NY initiative to connect more New Yorkers with nature. The improvements, supported by a nearly $400,000 state investment, include handicapped accessible facilities, a nature trail, fishing pier, floating canoe and kayak launch and new comfort station.

"New York is home to unparalleled natural beauty and unmatched environmental gems, and these campground improvements will make the facilities more accessible to connect more New Yorkers and visitors to the great outdoors," Governor Cuomo said. "Across the state, we are investing in our parks and natural resources to attract more visitors to see everything New York has to offer and support local economies."

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "DEC campgrounds offer a unique, affordable opportunity for New Yorkers and visitors alike to enjoy some of the most beautiful natural resources in the state. The improvements announced today will significantly enhance that enjoyment and help introduce more people to everything our state has to offer."

As an eastern gateway to the Catskill Park, surrounded by beautiful mountains with panoramic views, Kenneth L. Wilson Campground is one of the state Department of Environmental Conservation's most popular campgrounds.

Several ADA-accessible facilities were added to the campground, including:

• Nature trail with a wildlife viewing platform;
• Fishing pier;
• Floating canoe/kayak launch; and
• New comfort stations.

The improvements will provide an enhanced outdoor experience and make the campground more accessible to all visitors. At the campground, visitors can climb Overlook Mountain or Mount Tremper for outstanding vistas from historic fire towers, or stroll or bike the promenade along the Ashokan Reservoir's shore enjoying views of the Catskill high peaks. In addition, the nearby hamlet of Woodstock provides an eclectic mix of shopping, eating, and entertainment opportunities. The Catskill Interpretive Center is also close by and provides visitors with information about the Catskill Park with an accessible building and nature trails.

Under Governor Cuomo's new Adventure NY initiative, DEC is making strategic investments to expand access to healthy, active outdoor recreation, connect more New Yorkers and visitors to nature and the outdoors, protect natural resources, and boost local economies. This initiative will support the completion of more than 75 projects over the next three years, ranging from improvements to youth camps and environmental education centers to new boat launches, duck blinds, and hiking trails. Adventure NY builds on existing State efforts and includes $50 million in funding from the historic $300 million Environmental Protection Fund and NY Works capital funding. Read more about the Adventure NY initiative.

Future campground improvements include an accessible dog park, accessible features at the day-use picnic area and the pavilion cooking area, and the installation of two accessible horseshoe pits.

Senator Tom O'Mara, Chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee said, "New York State is a national leader in outdoor recreation and these ongoing investments in our campgrounds, parks and trails, and other natural resources will only strengthen this vital industry, as well as the state's overall economic and environmental quality."

Senator George Amedore said, "We are fortunate to have beautiful natural resources that encourage tourism and support our local economies. These improvements made by DEC will provide greater accessibility for residents and visitors who want to take advantage of the scenery and recreational opportunities surrounding us in the Catskill Park."

Assemblyman Steve Englebright, Chair of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, said, "Investment in New York's park system is a smart use of state resources that pays big dividends in connecting people to nature, creating jobs and boosting local economies, and providing accessible recreation for residents and visitors from other states. The improvements at the Kenneth L. Wilson Campground in historic Woodstock will go far in drawing visitors and providing opportunities for wildlife viewing, water access, fishing, and enjoying the wonders of nature."

Ulster County Executive Mike Hein said, "Governor Cuomo's Adventure NY Initiative is providing New Yorkers with more opportunities to experience and enjoy the great outdoors while protecting our natural resources. The Kenneth L. Wilson Campground is one of the many gems found in Ulster County and with the DEC's recent addition of ADA accessible facilities to the campground and proposed future improvements, the campground will attract more residents and visitors to the area so they can connect with the natural beauty and the many outdoor activities available. The Governor's initiative and the DEC's important efforts will enhance New York State's outdoor experience, will help boost local economies and will improve the quality of life for all of our residents."

Woodstock Town Supervisor Bill McKenna said, "Woodstockers truly love nature and time spent outdoors and we greatly appreciate the improvements to the Wilson State Park as well as the improvements at the Overlook Mountain Trailhead that allow for better access and more opportunities."

DEC manages 4.6 million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve, 52 campgrounds, five day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails, and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers.

Plan your next outdoor adventure at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr or Instagram. For more information on DEC-managed campgrounds, visit DEC's website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/camping.html.