Recreate Responsibly
State
forests are relatively remote and rural. Surrounding areas have worked hard to
prepare their health systems for Phase I of re-opening and need to proceed with
caution. Please try to find a local outdoor destination to enjoy.
If you can't delay travel,
please consider the following:
- Your actions could add an unnecessary stress on first responders.
- If you get lost or injured, it may take longer than usual for someone to assist. Calling up Search and Rescue teams puts a large stress on county resources, volunteers and their families and strain health care systems with limited capacity.
- Please check with the land manager where you are headed to confirm the area is open. Closures related to COVID-19 are changing frequently, this page will be updated as needed.
How can I visit state
forests while maintaining social distance?
- Prepare for your visit with the clothing, supplies, and knowledge you need to have a safe visit.
- If you're ill, stay home.
- Cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue (then throw it away) or inside of your elbow.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Bring hand sanitizer or soap and water – while some restrooms are open, most are vault toilets and do not have running water.
- If a place is so crowded you can't maintain a healthy social distance — at least six feet — find a different place to go.
