Campground Owners of New York (CONY) and Camp New York have introduced the inaugural Best of Camp New York Awards, a new initiative recognizing standout campgrounds and RV parks across the state.
The program aims to highlight independently owned parks that deliver exceptional guest experiences and amenities.
The nomination period opens August 1 and runs through September 1. Campers from across the state are invited to nominate their favorite campgrounds in a variety of categories, including best pet-friendly campground, best glamping accommodations, best family-friendly campground, and best seasonal park.
Public voting is scheduled to begin on September 12, allowing campers to select their top choices from among the nominees.
The voting process will determine which parks receive statewide recognition for service and innovation.
Winners will be officially announced at CONY’s Annual Conference on November 2, in Cooperstown, New York. The event serves as a major gathering for campground operators, offering educational sessions and networking opportunities.
Award recipients will receive a digital emblem to use on their websites, social media pages, and promotional materials, indicating their award-winning status.
Additional recognition includes a featured spot in a statewide travel publication.
The winning parks will also be highlighted in a special advertisement in the 2026 Camp New York Campground & RV Park Travel Guide, a key resource for travelers planning camping trips in the region.
In addition to print recognition, CONY will issue a press release announcing all award recipients. This media outreach is designed to provide additional exposure to the selected campgrounds and build awareness of the program’s broader impact.
To support participating parks, CONY has developed a promotional toolkit. The kit includes flyers, customizable social media content, and graphics to help operators encourage camper engagement throughout the nomination and voting phases.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible experiences our member campgrounds create for campers each and every day,” said CONY CEO/President Emily Simmons.
“The Best of Camp New York Awards will showcase the dedication and creativity of our parks while allowing campers to appreciate and recognize their favorite destinations,” Simmons added.