How to Become a Park Ranger in New York

There are 180 state parks in New York, and they all need park rangers.

So often, we think of New York and immediately our minds go to the Statue of Liberty or Niagara Falls.

While these are two of the state park areas, this state offers so much more in the way of natural resources and wildlife.

Let’s take a look at what it’s like to work as a state park ranger in New York.

Requirements for Becoming a New York State Park Ranger

New York State park rangers must be at least 18 years old when they apply.

They must be US citizens and hold a valid driver’s license.

For some positions, they may be asked to pass a civil service test.

A college degree is not needed, but it can help with more advancement opportunities.

In addition to the above, a candidate must meet physical, medical, and psychological requirements and pass both a background check and a drug screening.

Duties of a New York State Park Ranger

First and foremost, a New York State park ranger must protect visitors and park property.

They patrol campgrounds, beaches, trails, and park buildings to make sure rules are being followed and nobody needs help.

They respond to calls for assistance, may administer first aid or CPR, and may be tasked with aiding emergency personnel during a search and rescue or a fire emergency.

They are not peace officers like park rangers in some states.

The park ranger can lead tours and present programs that teach the public about the plants and animals in the park.

State Parks in New York

Allegany State Park

This New York State park is divided into two areas: Red House and Quaker.

Throughout the 65,000 acres, people spend time snowmobiling or staying at one of the 150 winterized camps.

During the summer, there is mountain biking, bird watching, canoeing, fishing, and horseback riding.

The Red House area has five miles of hiking trails, a beach, Bear caves, the Stone Tower, Science Lake, an amphitheater, and Thunder Rock.

The Quaker section has a playground, horseshoe pits, natural caves, the Quaker store, and the park museum. Canoeing, kayaking, and hiking are also enjoyed here.

Jones Beach State Park

The highlight of this park is the more than six miles of white-sand beaches.

It is also home to the Boardwalk, which boasts ice cream stands, restaurants, miniature golf, tennis, and volleyball.

The park also has two swimming pools, a large playground, a boat basin, and a nature center.

There is a total of 2400 acres here, and half is undeveloped, and hikers can see ephemeral pools, salt marshes, and a plethora of exotic and rare fish.

Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls State Park became a park in 1885, making it the country’s oldest state park.

It is also the home of the country’s largest waterfall.

Every second, 750,000 gallons of water cascade over this fall.

In addition to visiting the Falls, visitors may want to experience the Cave of Winds tour, ride on the scenic trolley, wander through the gardens and trails, or take a ride under the falls in the Maids of the Mist.

The Discovery Center has a multi-screen theater and the Observation Tower, and an Aquarium that always draws visitors.

Wonder Lake State Park

Wonder Lake State Park is 1133 acres, and that includes a 3-acre pond.

There are also 8.6 miles of marked trails.

These allow visitors a chance to hike, bike, hunt, and bird watch.

The beach of the lake allows for boating, swimming, picnics, and fishing.

One of the unusual features of this park is that it is part of what is going to eventually be a 200-mile trail that covers four states.

This is called the Highland Trail and will take hikers and bikers through Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.

The trails see visitors and photographers alike enjoying the old forestland and the many kinds of wildlife and birds that frequent this part of the state each year.

Schools Summary Table

	Rank	School
	#1	SUNY Ranger School

Park Ranger Salary in New York

How Much Are New York State Park Rangers Paid?

New York State park rangers are subject to a five-step pay scale and then a longevity scale.

It is as follows:

• Hiring $30,017
• Step 1 $31,273
• Step 2 $32,529
• Step 3 $33,785
• Step 4 $35,041
• Step 5 $36,297
• Rate: $37,553
• 10 years $39,828
• 15 years $41,832
• 20 years $44,921
• 25 years $46,924

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Find Park Ranger Career Guides by State

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the pay scale for New York State park rangers?

Rangers start at a base pay of $30,017 a year and then are subject to a five-step increase, depending on experience.

This rate caps off at $37,553.

Then longevity pay kicks in, with increases for 10, 15, 20, and 25 years.

Twenty-five years is the maximum, and the pay rate for those who stay that long is $46,924 yearly.

Is the oldest state park in the country in New York?

Yes, Niagara Falls State Park is not only the oldest state park in our nation, but it also holds the distinction of having the largest waterfall in the country.

Are New State park rangers happy with their jobs?

They appear to be as they state work environment, knowing they make a difference, and a chance to grow in all positive aspects of the position.

What does a state park ranger in New York do all day?

This post was written by a state park ranger and describes a day in her life on the job.

Are park rangers in New York City's Central Park state park rangers?

No, these rangers are employees of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.

New York City has within its borders over 30,000 acres of parkland, spread over 20,000 parks.