National Parks Reopen: How you can recreate responsibly

Since the stay-at-home order that was issued in March, most Nationals Parks have been closed for almost 3 months with little to no details on when they’d reopen again. But with all our efforts in flattening the curve, we are now starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. This month, many National Parks are beginning to reopen their doors for visitation and recreational activities such as hiking and camping. You can visit each NPS park page for a list of parks that are currently open and to what extent and book future reservations.

While we are all anxious to hit the outdoors, we must continue to abide the rules and safe distancing practices. Parks are opening on a case-by-case and state-by-state basis, complying with health and safety regulations. If you’re still living in a state that still has their stay-at-home order in place, we recommend caring for these rules and travel once the order has been lifted. If you’re one of the few lucky ones where your state has lifted the order and live nearby a national park that has been reopened, make sure to follow the CDC and NPS guidelines to recreate responsibly. 

Tips to Recreate Responsibly

If you’re planning to visit a national park, we encourage you to visit NPS.gov and safety guidelines to stay informed of what’s accessible and when.  

  • Stay Close: Follow your state and county orders that are governing the open state of the are you’re looking to visit. Try not to travel out of state.
  • Keep your distance: The reopening of state parks may lure in more crowds. Give others and yourself plenty of room when hiking and following social distancing guidelines for staying 6-feet away from others.
  • Leave No Trace: This is something we’re all familiar with but even more important during COVID-19. Remember during these times, park resources and are limited so be sure to pack everything in and out.
  • Know your limits: Avoid challenging hikes or new activities while first responders, parks, and communities continue to respond to the pandemic.
  • Plan ahead: Most facilities will be closed, be sure to pack lunch, hand sanitizer, wipes, and face coverings. 
  • Do not approach wildlife: With most of the population staying at home, there has been an increase in wildlife activity around city and wilderness areas. Keep a distance and do not approach.

 

US National Parks Open Now

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