WISCONSIN (NBC 26) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will reopen state campgrounds on Wednesday, June 10, the DNR announced Thursday.
State parks and campgrounds had been previously closed to the public due to concerns about coronavirus.
The DNR says the opening of campgrounds will include some changes to prevent the spread of the virus, such as automatic touchless check-in.
Here's more information directly from the DNR regarding campgrounds:
RESERVATIONS
- Camping reservations will be accepted by phone (1-888-947-2757) and online only to eliminate face to face interaction with DNR staff.
- Same-day camping reservations are also now available by phone (1-888-947-2757) and the online reservation system.
- Check-in is no longer necessary at the office or visitor station when coming to a property. Please proceed directly to your campsite and begin setup. Property staff will visit sites to monitor occupancy.
- Campers should note that Rock Island State Park remains closed through June 30. The Washington Island Ferry Line has also currently suspended all trips to and from Rock Island.
- Camping reservations for June 8 or 9 will be canceled and refunded; if reservations for a longer stay begin on June 8/9 and extend beyond June 10 your arrival will automatically be adjusted to June 10.
GROUP CAMPING, SHELTER, AND AMPHITHEATERS
- Group camping, shelters, and amphitheaters will be closed through June 30.
- All reservation holders will be contacted and provided a full refund.
RESTROOMS AND BUILDINGS
- Most restrooms at state properties are now open.
- Some remote water fountains may be closed in the day use area of the park or have the bubbler turned off and have access to the water spigot only.
- All other facilities will remain closed, including towers, shelters, playgrounds, nature centers, headquarters, contact stations, and concessions.
- Equipment rentals are unavailable at this time.
FIREWOOD
- Firewood is not available at state parks at this time and should be purchased before campers arrive.
- Campers are reminded that certified firewood that has been properly heat-treated or aged to kill any infesting pests or diseases to protect Wisconsin’s trees must be purchased within 10 milesof their camping location
ADMISSION
- Annual park stickers and trail passes are required to visit state parks and trails.
- Annual stickers are available for purchase online or with credit card by phone 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. seven days a week by calling toll free: 1-888-305-0398.
- Annual trail and daily passes are NOT available for purchase at individual properties. Visitors must have an annual admission sticker adhered to their vehicle or proof of purchase for entry.
- Once proof of purchase is shown, visitors must place proof of purchase on the dash of the windshield while parked within the boundary of the property.
- The 2020 annual vehicle admission sticker is valid through Dec. 31, 2020.
- Annual state trail pass is required for anyone age 16 or older biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding or in-line skating on certain trails. A state trail pass is NOT required for walking or hiking. The annual trail passes are valid through Dec. 31 of the year they are issued.
CAPACITY AND CLOSURES
- Due to high demand, many properties will likely reach their pre-determined capacity limits. When this happens, properties will close until existing visitors leave, and capacity is reduced.
- Visitors are encouraged to explore other DNR recreation areas or visit during non-peak hours before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
- The following State Natural Areas remain closed: Pewits Nest, Parfrey’s Glen, Dells of the Wisconsin River, Gibraltar Rock.
- Popular attractions within state parks, including beaches, where social distancing cannot be achieved may close as needed.
EVENTS
- All events and special event permits are canceled through June 30.
- Volunteer activities will also follow the Bounce Back Plan and be permitted on a case-by-case basis depending on group size and whether the activity can be done maintaining 6 feet of space between volunteers.
