MADISON (NBC 26) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is announcing some changes to state park operations after many parks were closed due to coronavirus.
Beginning Saturday, May 23, all Wisconsin state park system properties will return to regular operating hours of 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week, according to a news release from the DNR. Properties will no longer be closed Wednesdays.
Additionally, the DNR says a limited number of day-use area restrooms at park properties will reopen for public use beginning Wednesday, June 3. Visitors are reminded to plan ahead as well as bring hand sanitizer in the event it is not available at facilities.
All group, family and indoor group campsites will remain closed through June 7. All events and shelter reservations will also be canceled through June 7. The DNR says permit and reservation holders will be contacted and provided a full refund.
Some facilities and parks will remain closed through the Memorial Day weekend and into next month.
Rock Island State Park is closed to all use, including camping, until July 1. According to the ferry operator, ferry service to and from the island is on hold until further notice, the DNR says.
The Wisconsin DNR also says the following properties will remain closed:
- Dells of The Wisconsin River State Natural Area
- Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area
- Parfrey's Glen state Natural area
- Pewits Nest state Natural area
The DNR want the public to be mindful of the following:
- An annual park sticker or trail pass is required to visit state parks and trails which can be purchased online or by calling 1-888-305-0398 daily 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- All restrooms are closed through June 2. Places will restrict the number of visitors. View current property information before visiting here: Wisconsin State Park Capacity Updates.
- Attractions at which social distancing cannot be achieved are closed at various properties; visit the park notices webpage for information about ongoing closures.
- All other facilities currently closed such as towers, shelters, playgrounds, nature centers, headquarters, entrance stations and concession buildings remain closed to the public.
The DNR also reminds visitors to take their trash with them when they leave a park.
Learn more at the DNR website.
