State Parks COVID-19 Resource Center
Updated: June 16, 2021
Welcome to the California State Parks COVID-19 Resource Center. The department has created this online resource to serve as a one-stop center to find information on park closures and modifications and resources available to partners. Additionally, you will find information on complimentary broadcast-style home learning programs for K-12 students from various park locations across California. Please check this COVID-19 Resource Center webpage regularly, as it will be updated with new information as it becomes available.
The State of California recognizes that outdoor activity is critical for mental and physical health during this challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, State Parks has been working with local entities on a phased and regionally driven approach to increase access to state park units where compliance with state and local public health ordinances can be achieved.
Since the lifting of the Regional Stay at Home Order in January 2021, State Parks has reopened almost all campground sites, day-use public outdoor areas, and indoor facilities such as visitor centers and museums. A few units and group campsites remain closed due to COVID-19, wildfire impacts or other issues.
State Parks will continue to use a monitor and adapt strategy to meet any new guidance it may receive from local and state public health officials as COVID-19 is still present and still deadly, especially for the elderly, immune-compromised and the unvaccinated.
Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a new one, we look forward to seeing you in California’s park trails, beaches, mountains and the deserts but ask that you recreate responsibly. Below are some helpful links, including visitor guidelines and safety tips.
Thank you for helping reduce the exposure to COVID-19 in the outdoors. Together we are protecting the safety of visitors and those who take care of the State Park System.
Few Park Units (View List) – The full closure means there is no public access at these public outdoor spaces on a temporary basis to protect public health from the COVID-19 pandemic. All restrooms are closed, and there are no parking facilities open for visitors, recreational boats or off-highway vehicles. No form of activities is permitted, including sunbathing, walking, jogging or watersports.
Campgrounds: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfire impacts and other issues, a few campgrounds remain closed. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/COVID19Camping.
Since the lifting of the Regional Stay at Home Order in January 2021, State Parks has reopened almost all campground sites, day-use public outdoor areas, and indoor facilities such as visitor centers and museums. A few units and group campsites remain closed due to COVID-19, wildfire impacts or other issues.
The public is advised to “Know Before You Go” by checking the webpage of their local outdoor destination before leaving home to find out if it is open, what new guidelines are in effect and if parking is available.
Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:
- Know Before You Go – Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a back-up plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick.
- Plan Ahead - Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keepup with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer.
- Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
- Be COVID-19 Safe – State Parks continues to meet guidance from local and state public officials as COVID-19 is still present and still deadly.
- Fully Vaccinated Persons:
- Statewide – Face coverings are recommended in public indoor settings.
- Counties – Regardless of vaccination status, you are required by some counties to wear face coverings in public indoor settings. Please visit the webpage of the park unit you plan on visiting to learn about the masking requirements.
- Unvaccinated Persons: Face coverings are required in all indoor public settings such as museums and visitor centers.
- Leave No Trace – Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.
State Parks understands that outdoor enthusiasts have questions and concerns about the safety measures the department has implemented in the State Park System to slow the spread of COVID-19. It is important for us to keep you informed of our actions. As such, we have developed frequently asked questions (FAQs) – view here. If you do not find the answer to your question, please feel free to email us at info@parks.ca.gov.
Resources
Online Home Learning Programs - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students (PORTS) is offering new broadcast-style Home Learning Programs for K-12 students from various park locations across California. Connect with a PORTS program today!