Schools and community organizations across New York can now apply for funding to help students experience the outdoors, as the state’s Connect Kids to Parks Field Trip Grant Program opens applications for the 2025 season.
The program, overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, reimburses transportation costs for school children in pre-K through grade 12 to visit state and national parks, historic sites, and other public lands. Eligible applicants include public and non-public schools, municipalities, libraries, and not-for-profit organizations located in a New York school district receiving Title 1 funding.
“We’re excited to offer this program to help make field trips more affordable for schools and programs that serve our youth,” said Randy Simons, Commissioner Pro Tempore of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “Children thrive when they spend time in parks, nature and historic places – and the Connect Kids to Parks Field Trip Grant Program helps youth to discover and appreciate the exceptional parks and public lands in their home state.”
The grant covers transportation expenses, including parking and tolls, but does not reimburse costs for lodging, food, lessons, or equipment. Applications must be submitted at least six weeks before the planned trip and no earlier than six months in advance. Funding is distributed on a rolling basis until available resources are exhausted.
The initiative aligns with Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Unplug and Play” strategy, which promotes outdoor recreation. The 2025-26 Executive Budget proposes a $500,000 increase in funding for the Connect Kids to Parks program, bringing the total to $3.5 million. Additionally, Hochul’s broader investment in recreation includes:
- $100 million for the NY BRICKS program, which funds community center construction and renovation.
- $67.5 million for NY PLAYS, which supports new and upgraded playgrounds.
- $50 million for NY SWIMS, which helps municipalities build and renovate swimming facilities.
New York State Parks welcomes over 88 million visitors annually across its 250 parks, historic sites, trails, and recreational facilities. More information on the Connect Kids to Parks Field Trip Grant Program, including application details, can be found on the parks.ny.gov website.
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