AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Texas' state parks are opening overnight camping reservations for the first time since the pandemic began.
Beginning today, visitors can make reservations between June 1 and September 7.
"No one is more pleased than us to welcome more outdoor enthusiasts back into state parks as part of the continued reopening of Texas," said Carter Smith, Executive Director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. "Our careful and deliberate approach to phasing in the reopening has served our visitors, volunteers, and staff well as we have continued our emphasis on the safety of everyone in the parks. Even in this limited capacity, we are glad that we can get more Texans and their families safely back on the trails and in the campsites to enjoy all the many unique spaces and places that make Texas State Parks so special."
Everyone, including annual pass holders, will need to pre-purchase day passes and overnight reservations in advance. Reservations can be made online at www.texasstateparks.org or calling 512-389-8900.
Visitors are encouraged to bring all necessary provisions for themselves, including hand sanitizer and face coverings. Groups larger than five that are not part of the same household are prohibited, and park rangers will continue to encourage social distancing.
Operational changes still in effect at parks include the suspension of all transactions at parks, equipment rentals and in-person interpretive programs. All headquarters, visitor centers and nature centers will also remain closed for now.