There are countless ways to have fun in the parks and preserves that are owned and operated by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC). Its 50-plus facilities and more than 18,000 acres of open space are accessible throughout the year and are the backbone of the county’s vibrant, healthy population. The expertly designed network of green spaces offers activities that suit diverse interests and cater to the wide range of recreational and environmental needs of children and adults.
This top-tier park system ensures that all residents—regardless of their ages, physical abilities and socioeconomic status—can easily access the parks. Ramps and smooth paths for those with mobility challenges are designed to be welcoming and safe for all. No matter where they live, Westchester residents needn’t travel far to enjoy a PRC facility. We’re in everyone’s backyard!
Throughout the year, PRC properties and venues host hundreds of sports, entertainment, educational and community events. The esteemed Westchester County Center in White Plains is the county’s best-known and largest event and entertainment space.
PRC’s endless offerings include four exquisite pools, two beautiful beaches, six pro-level golf courses, extensive hiking and biking trails, and an abundance of sports fields, picnic areas, RV sites, campsites and venues for family-friendly events.
Among PRC’s most popular offerings and events: summer camps with a variety of themes, outdoor concerts and movies, July 3rd Music Festival & Fireworks, the Holidays on the Hill Annual Train Show, Westchester’s Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Extravaganza, two farmers markets, Lasdon Park’s annual plant sale, numerous Halloween festivities, Bicycle Sundays, 12 cultural heritage festivals, and the pools’ and beaches’ Family Fun Days and DJ Days. The paved South County Trailway (14.1 miles), North County Trailway (22.1 miles) and Bronx River Pathway (11.2) draw walkers, joggers, runners and bicyclists from all over the New York tri-state area.
By prioritizing accessibility, diversity, sustainability, community involvement, maintenance and connectivity, the PRC park system significantly enhances the county’s quality of life, and provides spaces in which people can relax, play and connect with nature.
The Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation has the distinction of having been awarded national accreditation by the prestigious National Recreation and Parks Association three times. PRC is also the only accredited park system in New York State. To learn more about PRC, visit parks.westchestergov.com.
