The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources announced on Sunday the closure of all state campgrounds to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
The closure will be in place through April 30.
According to a DNR news release, the closure also includes roofed accommodations like cabins and yurts. Current campers will be phased out following instructions from land officials. Day-use areas and trails will remain open. Due to the volume of people visiting Washington’s ocean beaches, DNR is asking the public to avoid those places and advises the practicing of social distancing and good hygiene when recreating outdoors.
Campers who have state park reservations through April 30 will be notified and offered a full refund, according to the agencies. Although camping is not allowed, WDFW wildlife areas and water access areas remain open for public use at this time. However, due to theft and increased usage of their restrooms, visitors should plan to bring their own hand sanitizer and toilet paper, according to the release.