How Westchester County park passes save you money, and where you can buy one

How do you get a pass for Westchester County's parks? And how do various park pass types differ in what they provide and cost?

A park pass provides some form of discounts on things, including at the six county-owned golf courses, as well as pool and beaches admission fees. Where parking is charged, pass holders pay reduced rates, except at the Westchester County Center. There are discounts for camping at Croton Point Park, Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park and Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.

Other savings include discounts for boat launching at Glen Island Park, George’s Island Park and Wampus Pond (including rowboat rentals), and the six all-weather tennis courts at Tibbetts Brook Park in Yonkers.

What kind of park passes are available in Westchester?

According to Westchester government's website, there are several types of park passes available.

For adults, the pass costs $90 and is valid for three years. Passholders can bring up to five guests to pools or beaches where county residency is required.

Kids and teens aged 12 to 17 can also get a pass. Like the adult pass, the junior park pass costs $90, and is valid for three years. Proof of age with a school-issued I.D. as well as guardian's proof of residency is required. Kids need to be at least 14 years old to enter a beach or pool without a parent or guardian.

Families can save a bit of money by opting for the family pass, which allows for two adults and children aged 12 to 17 living in the same household to get their own passes for a single fee of $180. All family members must be present at time of purchase, and provide proof of Westchester residency with a family mailing address. The pass is valid for three years from issuing date.

Other passes for senior citizens, people with disabilities, disabled veterans, military and clergy are also available at different rates. To see the full list, go to the county's website: bit.ly/3y9AWR8.

How to buy a Westchester County park pass

There are a number of places to buy park passes. You can purchase them year round Croton Point Park, The Westchester County Parks Department (450 Saw Mill River Road, Ardsley), Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, or Sportsman Center (183 Watch Hill Road, Cortlandt Manor). For a full list of locations, see the county's online list at bit.ly/3S9qiAZ.

A passholder’s photo, taken at the purchase of the pass, will appear on screen, along with account number, when scanned at county park entrances, according to the county government website.

People receive a credit card-sized pass and a smaller card that can go on a key chain. Valid, previously designed park passes will be honored and should be replaced when they expire.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: How to buy a Westchester County park pass