Veterans & Military · Surprise rank #104
Veterans: Get a Lifetime Pass for Free State Park Entry and Golf
The Lifetime Liberty Pass grants NY resident veterans and Gold Star families free vehicle entry, swimming, and golf at state parks forever.
Who
Eligible New York resident veterans and Gold Star family members under current statutory definitions.
Where: Statewide at participating NYS Parks and DEC facilities.
What to do
Start here: Order the free Lifetime Liberty Pass and submit the required veteran or Gold Star documentation.
Eligibility: NYS residency and qualifying veteran/Gold Star documentation.
What you get
Eligible New York veterans and Gold Star family members can receive a free lifetime recreation pass.
Benefit: Free vehicle entry, greens fees and pool admission at many state-operated facilities, plus discounts on many campsites and cabins.
Possible value: Potentially hundreds of dollars per year for frequent users; the pass never expires.
Good to know
Important: The pass is for the eligible holder; some concessionaire, partner, golf and marina locations may not accept it.
Availability: Ongoing; the issued pass does not expire.
Why people miss it: Older information described stricter disability criteria; the current program is broader for New York veterans.
Sources reviewed: Aug 2, 2026