Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
With the regional stay-at-home order lifted for all regions of the state, the California Department of State Parks this week announced the reopening of campsites for existing reservation holders, and will use a phased approach to reopen other state campgrounds for new reservations beginning Jan. 28.
He also informed the public that not all camps are open due to the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfire impacts and other issues.
In addition, he said, group campsites will remain closed, while outdoor day-use areas of park units currently open to the public will be open.
Updates on the phased reopening will be posted on the department's Facebook , Twitter and Instagram accounts and at Parks.ca.gov/COVID19Camping.
The information will also be posted on the websites of the individual park units.
Reservations can be made at least two days - 48 hours - prior to arrival at ReserveCalifornia.com.
It should be noted that the demand for camping and lodging sometimes exceeds the available inventory, so the public is advised to plan their stay, do a little research and keep alternative parks in mind in case their first choice is full.
"As state parks increase access to the state park system, it is critical that Californians continue to recreate responsibly outdoors, as the pandemic is far from over," the department said in a statement.
"Thank you to our visitors for helping to reduce outdoor exposure to the virus. Together we are protecting the safety of visitors and those who care for the State Park System," said Armando Quintero, director of California State Parks.
Among the guidelines that State Parks has implemented to reduce the risk of outdoor exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus are:
Staying localStay close to home during this pandemic period. If you or someone in your household feels ill, stay home and plan your travel for another time.
Plan ahead The ongoing pandemic response remains dynamic and fluid. Before you leave home, check the website of your outdoor destination you plan to visit to find out if it is open, if parking is available, and what visitor guidelines are in effect. Also, find out what safety precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors at Parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips to enjoy them safely.
Stay safe at two meters or moreNo matter the recreational activity, maintain a physical distance of six feet or more. Your guests should only include those within your immediate household. This means no guests or friends, no gatherings or parties. If there are too many people to maintain the required physical distance, visit the park another day.
NavigationDo not raft with other boaters or stop on a beach with other visitors.
Recreation of off-road vehiclesDo not drive next to others or stop next to another person, as this may put you too close to other visitors.
Keeping clean Please be prepared as not all restrooms may be available. Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap and/or hand sanitizer. Pack out all trash. The park units are experiencing heavy use and you can help alleviate the impact on park facilities.
Keeping covered The state requires you to wear a face shield when you are unable to maintain a physical distance of two meters or more. Persons must cover their face at all times.
Although law enforcement agencies have the authority to issue citations, the public is expected to be responsible for complying with public health officials' advice, visitor guidelines and closures.
