After a short midshipman cruise in early November 1961, "York County" headed for the Caribbean where she participated in Exercise "Phiblex 4–61" before returning to Little Creek in January 1962 for leave and upkeep. On 26 February, she conducted a two-week reserve cruise off the coast of Florida. On 15 May, "York County" sailed for the Mediterranean where she conducted practice and demonstration landings and participated in the Navy's "People to People" program. "York County" returned home on 19 October and made a one-day turnaround to take part in the Cuban blockade. It was not until 5 December 1962 that the ship finally returned to the Hampton Roads area for leave and upkeep, followed by a four-month yard and drydock period at Jacksonville, Florida, and six weeks of selected underway training exercises.