Public May Use PA State Park Spaces During Shutdown

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — The public may still use trails, lakes and other open areas at Pennsylvania state parks while the parks themselves are shut down to help curb the spread of the new coronavirus, officials said.

On Monday, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced that all facilities at state parks and forests in Pennsylvania will be closed for 14 days starting Tuesday.

That's two days after the state shuttered the six state parks in Bucks County.

Sign up for Patch news alerts to get the latest updates on coronavirus inBucks County as well as other top local news.

But while the weekend's announcement made it sound like the parks would be off limits entirely, officials clarified Monday that residents may still visit open spaces at the parks.

"People will have access to state-owned open spaces to continue to enjoy the healthful benefits of recreation and being outdoors," Dunn said. "However, as part of Pennsylvania’s COVID-19 mitigation efforts, all of the buildings at state parks and forests including the park and forest offices, and all restrooms will be closed, and all events and public educational programs are canceled.

"We encourage practicing social distancing while enjoying open spaces including avoiding groups and crowds, and visitors should use the bathroom before they leave home."

Pennsylvania has 121 state parks and 20 forest districts. In Bucks County, the parks are Delaware Canal, Neshaminy, Nockamixon, Ralph Stover, Tyler and Washington Crossing.

While visiting the parks, residents should observe the following, according to Pennsylvania officials:

• Adhere to the social spacing guide (minimum 6 feet) between people and don't gather in groups
• Take hand sanitizer with you and use it regularly
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, and nose
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with a tissue or flexed elbow
• If you are sick, stay home