AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Following the lead of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Texas' state parks will begin re-opening Monday for day use.
New restrictions in effect include requiring visitors to the parks to wear face coverings, maintain a six-foot distance from anyone outside their party, and prohibiting groups larger than five. Overnight camping remains prohibited, and equipment rentals and other transactions at parks continue to be closed along with all group use facilities and other centers.
"As we navigate through these challenging times, it is essential that outdoor experiences and opportunities are available for Texas families. We have been diligently working with our partners in local communities across the state to help safeguard our state park visitors, volunteers and staff when they return to Texas State Parks,” said Carter Smith, Executive Director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). "During the temporary closure, our State Parks team has been cleaning and sanitizing park facilities, addressing routine maintenance projects, and ensuring requisite safety protocols are in place to ensure visitors have the best possible experience."
Officials say some parks will remain closed due to limited staffing, weather conditions, and construction projects. Park visitors should check the Texas State Parks Alert Map regularly for the latest details.
Visitors are required to pre-purchase and print day-use permits through the Texas State Parks Reservation System before traveling to a park. Day-use reservations can be made online at www.texasstateparks.org or by calling 512-389-8900.
Visitors planning on coming to a state park are encouraged to bring all necessary provisions, such as hand sanitizer and face masks, with them in order to help local businesses have enough goods to properly serve their communities during this time. This will also help park staff have necessary supplies available for all guests during their stay.