New York community groups contribute $31 million to state parks

A new report from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) reveals that community-based non-profit organizations, known as ‘Friends Groups’, contributed an estimated $31 million in value to the state park system during 2025.

These 70 partner organizations independently generated nearly $27 million in revenue, primarily through private donations and program fees. The total $31 million impact was distributed across strategic sectors, including infrastructure, construction, and education, to support the sustainability and maintenance of public recreational spaces.