Erie County Campgrounds Can Reopen

Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein, and County Executive Mark Poloncarz

Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein says the emergency order shutting down campgrounds was allowed to expire over the weekend, and they are back open.

Burstein says campgrounds may operate in Erie County in a manner that is consistent with their permit conditions, New York State Sanitary Code, NYS PAUSE Orders, and current county, state and federal guidelines, including conditions set by ECDOH.  “The Erie County Department of Health and our Division of Environmental Health have established this guidance to protect the health of campers and safety of campground facilities,” says Burstein.

Erie County parks remain closed until May 30th.

ECDOH guidance includes:

  • All camping units should be self-contained not needing the use of common campground restrooms or shower facilities.
  • Only registered campers should be allowed into the campground. There should not be any outside visitors.
  • Campers shall not congregate at another camper’s site. No gatherings/parties of any kind. Campfires shall be kept to family members at individual site only.
  • All public gathering sites such as bathhouses, laundry facilities, recreational halls, pools/spas, beaches, fitness areas, playgrounds, pavilions, meeting areas, conference rooms, dining areas, or similar areas should remain CLOSED until further notice per the Governor’s Executive Orders.
  • All campers must practice social distancing at all times (6 feet minimum). No groups of any size may congregate for activities. Use of face masks must follow NYS guidelines.
  • Any camper that begins to feel ill with COVID-19 like symptoms shall self-isolate and contact their personal healthcare provider.
  • Dine-in Food Service Operations are prohibited until further notice. Take-out or delivery options to campsites is acceptable for food orders. Indoor seating at the food service facility should be blocked off to prevent use. Picnic tables located in the food service area should be removed to discourage congregation.

 

ECDOH sanitarians and local code enforcement officers will be monitoring campgrounds for compliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders. If violations are witnessed on campground premises, law enforcement agencies including Erie County Sheriff’s Office will issue citations to any individuals involved.

Individuals cited for violations of the Executive Orders may be fined up to $1,000. Any campground that holds any events or that opens a venue that encourages people to congregate in violation of the Governor’s Executive Orders will have further action taken, which may include a Campground Close Order and/or individual civil or criminal penalties.