I'm feeling very rah-rah New York State and USA today. Probably because of the Red, White and Blue event I just went to at Troy's School 14. Darn those cute kids and their contagious patriotism.

I just gave some thoughts about how the US has some world-class sights that do not even require a passport. Now, let's look a bit closer to my own backyard.

New York State has a deal that goes now through Thurs., June 26 in which you get $5 off per night for regular camping rates at 112 state campgrounds in the state. This offer excludes Hither Hills State Park, mooring buoys, walk-ins, and previous reservations.

When booking here (http://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/), just use the promo code: EARLYCAMP 14.

(Cherry Plain State Park, about 45 minutes from Troy)

This is the third year of the discount, which drew 4,000 camping nights during the same period last year, a 40 percent increase over the introductory year, according to a press release put out by the Governor's Office.

Jon and I did some camping last summer at Sampson State Park. I'd never heard of it before I checked out this state park site, but it had a beautiful location right on Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes. There were some interesting memories made - including Jon being quasi-attacked by a raccoon. Don't worry - they're both OK.

Locally, if you have a young family and just want to get to a campsite that is a quick drive from home, there's Cherry Plain near Petersburgh, Max V. Shaul in Schoharie County, Moreau Lake State Park in Gansevoort, and Thompsons Lake near Thacher Park. And, starting next spring, there will be camping available in Schodack Island State Park outside of Schodack on the Hudson River.

I'll probably take advantage of the deal - just need to figure out where to go. I hope to hear from folks about where you've gone camping in NYS and where you're hoping to camp this summer.