Green Lakes State Park ranks second nationally for tick-borne illness risk

Key points

• Green Lakes State Park ranked No. 2 on WorldAtlas' national list for tick-borne illness concerns, behind Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Pennsylvania.
• The ranking considers regional Lyme disease numbers, research, and firsthand reports, not a direct count of cases traced to the park.
• New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Jim McDonald reported nearly 23,000 Lyme disease cases in New York last year (excluding NYC), a rise from previous years.
• Harriman State Park in Rockland and Orange counties ranked No. 3 nationally, with its large deer population and heavy foot traffic contributing to high tick numbers.
• Health experts recommend routine tick checks, using repellent, wearing light-colored clothing, and checking children and pets after outdoor activities.

Background

This story follows earlier coverage in August 2026 highlighting rising tick activity and Lyme disease risk in New York, with statewide cases averaging about 17,500 annually and nearly 19,000 in 2024. A 145% jump in tick submissions to SUNY’s vector-disease labs between 2024 and 2025 was also noted. Recent alerts include tularemia cases on Long Island and the first identified Bourbon virus case in New York, underscoring broader tick-borne disease concerns.

How outlets are covering it

WSTM emphasizes the local impact on Green Lakes visitors and the rising statewide Lyme disease cases, quoting Dr. Jim McDonald. LoHud provides broader context on New York’s tick activity, noting a 145% increase in tick submissions to SUNY labs and the presence of lone star and dog ticks in Central New York. Peoria Journal Star and News12 New Jersey focus on other state parks (Illinois and New Jersey, respectively) that also ranked high, highlighting a national trend in tick-borne illness hotspots across the Northeast and Midwest.

Why it matters

The ranking underscores the growing public health risk of tick-borne illnesses in popular outdoor destinations. With rising Lyme disease cases and increased tick activity, proactive prevention measures are critical for visitors to state parks and wooded areas.

What to watch

Health officials will continue to emphasize prevention strategies, including tick checks and repellent use. Monitoring tick submissions and Lyme disease cases will help track trends and guide public health responses.