Submitted by Washington State Parks

On April 26, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission announced they will reopen state-managed lands on May 5 for local day-use only recreation.

The reopening will apply to state-managed parks, wildlife areas, recreation land and boat launches. However, it may take several days for gates to be unlocked and sites to be serviced at remote areas due to limited staff capacity.

Some parks may not open immediately due to impacts on rural communities and the potential for crowding. State Parks is working with local communities and its partners to determine the best approach and timing to reopening these areas.

Visitor centers, camping and other overnight accommodations on state-managed lands will remain closed until further notice.

The Department of Natural Resources also plans to reopen its recreation lands on May 5 for day-use. For more information on DNR’s operations, visit dnr.wa.gov/open.

State land managers recommend people come prepared and bring their own hand-washing supplies, toilet paper and personal protective equipment as some sites will have reduced or limited restroom facilities. People should also be prepared to change plans if their destination appears crowded or is not yet fully operational.

If sites become overcrowded or other COVID-19 related public safety concerns develop, state agencies may close areas with limited notice to further protect public health and safety.

The public can find the latest information about WDFW and Parks operations at:

WDFW: wa.gov/about/covid-19-updates

Parks: parks.state.wa.us/COVID19

Guidelines for responsible recreation in the outdoors

Before you go

• Check what’s open. While many state-managed land destinations are open for day use, other local, tribal and federal land may still be closed.

• Opt for day trips close to home. Overnight stays are not permitted.

• Stay with immediate household members only. Recreation with those outside of your household creates new avenues for virus transmission.

• Come prepared. Visitors may find reduced or limited restroom services as staff begin the process to reopen facilities at wildlife areas and water access sites. You are advised to bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer and toilet paper, as well as a mask or bandana to cover your nose and mouth.

• Enjoy the outdoors when healthy. If you have symptoms of fever, coughing or shortness of breath, save your outdoor adventure for another day.

When you get there

• Avoid crowds. Be prepared to go somewhere else or come back another time if your destination looks crowded.

• Practice physical distancing. Keep six feet between you and those outside your immediate household. Launch one boat at a time to give others enough space to launch safely. Leave at least one parking space between your vehicle and the vehicle next to you. Trailer your boat in the same way.

• Wash your hands often. Keep up on personal hygiene and bring your own water, soap and hand sanitizer with you.

• Pack out what you pack in. Take any garbage with you, including disposable gloves and masks.