The Gowrie Group [insurers to US Sailing and Hobie Class] have a range of Covid-19 information and updates
Below is an interactive site that will show which areas allows sailing and the government restrictions. Just click on the photo to go to the site with all the information.
State-by-State Detailed Access Updates [updated 7th May 2020]
Alabama
Access Impacts: Most Alabama State Parks and associated facilities remain open except for the following: All swimming pools and designated swimming areas, museums, arcade areas, fitness centers, nature centers, planetarium, and bike-share programs are closed or suspended. Playgrounds and playground equipment are closed or suspended. Read more here.
Boating access areas remain open. For a complete list, click here.
Beaches and beach access areas reopened May 1. Group gatherings are limited to 10 people or less.
NOTE: The White’s Bridge facility on Lake Harris (Wedowee) is currently closed for maintenance.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Alaska
Access Impacts: Alaska state parks remain open. According to state boating officials, residents are encouraged to go boating and fishing if they can do so without leaving their community. Limited fishing charters are now open under phase 1 of the state’s reopening plan. Read more here.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is informing the public that Health Mandate 012 – Intrastate Travel was amended from an April 21 expiration date to a “in effect until suspended” status. Mandate 012 states “all instate travel between communities, whether resident, worker, or visitor, is prohibited unless travel is to support critical infrastructure, or for critical personal needs”.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Arizona
Access Impacts: Arizona parks and other outdoor venues are open, although most visitor centers are closed. Lake Powell National Recreationarea slowly reopening, with private marinas and boat ramps scheduled to be reopened by May 8. Read more here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Arkansas
Access Impacts: Wildlife management areas, boat ramps, lakes and fishing accesses controlled by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) remain open during the day only to allow people to get outside during this time of social distancing. The AGFC suggests the following: keep it local, plan ahead, spread out, avoid crowded access points and keep it friendly but keep it quick. To read the AGFC’s full release, click here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
California
Access Impacts: Governor Newsom announced May 8 that the state will operate under Phase II of his reopening plan, including opening marinas, boat clubs, charters, and boat ramps throughout the state. Phase II Stage 2 allows gradual reopening of lower-risk workplaces with adaptations including bookstores, clothing stores, florists, and sporting goods stores, with modifications. It is unclear if bait shops and other fishing-related businesses are included in Phase II.
San Diego County opened its boat ramps and other facilities as of May 1 as long as all occupants are from the same household. Beaches in the San Diego area are open. Marinas are doing business in some areas, particularly inland and in the northern California areas.
The May 1 Recreational Ocean Fishery openings proceeded as planned. More details are available in the calendar of events from the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife.
State beaches remain closed, Governor Newsom has yet to issue any guidance on when California may begin lifting some of the restrictions in his stay-at-home order. As requested by county officials, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Director Charlton H. Bonham delayed the start of the trout opener in Alpine, Inyo and Mono counties from April 25 until May 31, 2020. Fishing is also suspended on the North Fork Yuba River from Yuba Pass downstream to the confluence with Goodyears Creek and the trout opener on the entire mainstem of the Downie River is delayed, both through May 31, 2020. These decisions were made in consultation with California Fish and Game Commission President Eric Sklar. The state Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted a rule on April 15 allowing the director of the Commission, in consultation with the president of the Commission to temporarily delay, suspend or restrict recreational fishing if the director finds that such action is necessary to protect against the threat from COVID-19 based on state, federal, local, and tribal public health guidance and public safety needs.
State officials have closed parking lots at all parks and boating access locations in order to prevent overcrowding. While access to these facilities are open, getting to them, in many cases, will be very difficult. A full list of closures can be found here.
On April 10, the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) recommended the following 2020 season dates for the state’s four Salmon management areas:
- In the Klamath Management Zone, which is the area between the Oregon/California state line and Horse Mountain (40°05’00” N. latitude), the season is expected to open June 6 and continue through Aug. 9.
- The Fort Bragg and San Francisco areas, which extend from Horse Mountain to Point Arena (38°57’30” N. latitude) and Point Arena to Pigeon Point (37°11’00” N. latitude), respectively, are expected to open on May 1 and continue through Nov. 8.
- The Monterey area, between Pigeon Point and the U.S./Mexico border, is expected to open on May 1 and will continue through Oct. 4.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Colorado
Access Impacts: Access Impacts: Colorado state parks will remain open for all outdoor recreation, but all Colorado Parks and Wildlife park visitor centers, playgrounds, picnic areas and campgrounds are closed to the public until further notice. Boating and fishing are allowed in State Parks during the Stay in Place order as long as boaters follow government guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Stations to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species in State Parks are open and staffed during the Stay at Home order. Curecanti National Recreation Area is closed to all boating.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Connecticut
Access Impacts: Connecticut State Parks and Forests are open for solitary outdoor enjoyment. Outdoor facilities remain open including boat launches, state parks, and forests, with guidelines that when using trails and parks to keep a safe distance from others per the Governor’s order. However, the buildings at all state facilities are closed to the public. Read more here.
All of DEEP’s 117 boat launches located throughout the state remain open, although docks are not be in place yet. Kent Falls State Park (Kent) and Seaside State Park (Waterford) have both been closed to the public.
On April 18th, Governor Lamont, along with Governor Cuomo (NY) and Murphy (NJ) announced that marinas, boatyards and marine manufacturers in their states will be allowed to open for personal use as long as strict social distancing and sanitization protocols are followed.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Delaware
Access Impacts: Access Impacts: Delaware’s state parks and wildlife areas are open. Beginning on May 1, The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced all those aged 13 or older are now required to bring a face mask with them to enter state parks, wildlife areas and reserves, and should wear them when they cannot maintain social distancing from other visitors. Those who do not bring face masks when visiting these areas may be required to leave by officers or staff.
All Delaware beaches are closed until May 15. Beaches within Cape Henlopen, Delaware Seashore and Fenwick Island state parks are closed, except for limited vehicle access to beaches for the purpose of surf fishing for those with a current surf fishing permit.
All state park offices, nature centers, campgrounds, cabins, cottages and bathhouses are closed. Out-of-state visitors must self-quarantine for 14 days before engaging in fishing, hunting, golf, visiting state parks and wildlife areas. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Florida
Access Impacts: Boat ramps and other access points in Miami-Dade and numerous other counties are open, with restrictive launching procedures at boat ramps and the number of people aboard. Boaters also cannot anchor within 50 feet of another boat. Most of Florida’s coastal counties have opened their beaches, with the exception of South Florida, Pasco and Hillsborough counties.
On April 17, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-91, which closed all FWC maintained boat ramps, marinas and other public access points to the public, as well as State Parks. He has not revised that order, however state, county and local boat ramps are opening in more locations than in the past.
The FWC’s Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder is updated every 24-hours to include information regarding boat ramp open/closed status. FWC recommends that you check with local authorities for current boat ramp status. All recreational boats must be at least 50 feet apart. Each recreational vessel must not have more than 10 people on board.
The National Park Service has begun a phased reopening of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, with two sections in Florida now open and more expected to be open May 6.
On April 29, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties reopened marinas, boat launches, docking, fueling marine supply and marina services under the limited circumstances: Boating will be allowed from public marinas. Boat ramps will open daily from 6am to 8pm and one boat per launch area is allowed at a time. Vessels must be prepared in advance to launch (plug secured, dock lines tied, safety equipment and provisions already onboard). All passengers must board the vessel once it is launched. Upon returning to the dock all passengers must remain on the vessel until the boat is ready to be loaded onto the trailer. Once loaded, the passenger(s) shall return to their vehicle(s) and exit the launch facility together. Anchoring is once again allowed but boats must remain 50-feet apart. Rafting up or tying up together is not permitted and no more than 10 people are allowed on a boat at once. Boats that are 25 feet or less can only have four adults; boats 25 to 36 feet may accommodate six adults; while boats 37 feet or larger can have up to eight adults and two children on board. Kayak/canoe launch areas are to reopen. Read more here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Georgia
Access Impacts: Some parks are experiencing large crowds on certain days. Park staff may temporarily limit access to ensure social distancing and protect the health of the public and our employees. Please understand that admission may be limited for several hours and will reopen once there is available capacity. Click HERE to view the limited facilities and activities.
For a complete list of boat ramp closures, click here.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Hawaii
Access Impacts: As of Saturday May 2, Hawaii has begun a phased process of re-opening state parks. Numerous, popular state parks have reopened as of May 2 for access for ocean recreation, mauka trail use, and general exercise. Social distancing must be practiced. No person shall sit, stand, lie down, lounge, sunbathe, or loiter on any beach or sand bar in Hawaiʻi. Running, jogging, or walking on the beach is allowed, so long as social distancing requirements are maintained. Read more to check park status here.
Boating: No more than two people are allowed on any boat in Hawai‘i’s water for recreational purposes, unless they are part of a single residential or family unit sharing the same address. Both people on the boat are required to maintain physical distancing of six-feet from one another, as is reasonably possible. All boats are required to stay 20-feet from one another.
Fishing: Shore Fishing Limitations. No group of more than two persons may engage in shore fishing, unless all in the group are part of a single residential or family unit sharing the same address. All persons engaging in shore fishing, who are not part of a single residential or family unit sharing the same address, shall comply with social distancing requirements.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Idaho
Access Impacts: No statewide executive orders have been taken in regard to recreational activities. Idaho state parks and boating access points remain open for daytime use. However, the Department of Parks and Recreation states in its website that access to parks may be restricted if visitors regularly violate social distancing guidelines.
The Idaho Fish and Game Commission adopted a rule that temporarily suspends the sale of several types of nonresident fishing and hunting licenses, tags, and permits. The action is effective immediately and lasts until the rule is repealed consistent with relevant state of Idaho public health orders.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Illinois
Access Impacts: On April 23, Governor Pritzker announced that many Illinois’ State Parks will reopen from sun-up to sundown effective May 1. All visitor centers, campgrounds, playgrounds, shelter reservations, interpretive educational programs, beaches, special events and concessions will remain closed. Find a complete list of open/closed parks read more here.
Additionally, Governor Pritzker announced that beginning on May 1st boating access will be restricted to two people per boat, regardless of the relationship of the people in the boat.
Chicago: Fishing and boating in Chicago will not be permitted by any individuals throughout the month of May. However, individuals may access their boats for maintenance and de-winterization, consistent with the guidance of the Chicago Park District. For more information regarding the Chicago boating season and Chicago Harbors, read here.
Contact: Jill Sims (jsims@nmma.org)
Indiana
Access Impacts: Currently all DNR properties including State Parks, State Forests, Fish and Wildlife areas, Nature Preserves, and state recreation areas are open.
Lakes, dams and waters managed by the U.S. Army Corps are closed. All fishing tournaments on DNR owned and operated property are canceled through May 15. Read more here.
Contact: Jill Sims (jsims@nmma.org)
Iowa
Access Impacts: State Parks, Forests and Preserves remain open during this time for day-use opportunities, but visitors are reminded to strictly abide the social distancing rules and not gather in groups. For a full list of closures read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Kansas
Access Impacts: Kansas state parks, fishing lakes and wildlife areas are currently open to the public. On April 8, Governor Kelly began prohibiting prohibit any activities likely to draw together more than 10 persons outside of the immediate family. In Executive Order 20-16, Kansas Governor Kelly allows outdoor activity as long as people stay six feet apart and in groups of 10 or less. EO 20-16 does not restrict boating or boating access.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Kentucky
Access Impacts: State park lodges, cottages, restaurants and campgrounds are closed. Park grounds will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. effective April 3, 2020. This includes hiking trails and picnic areas. Golf courses remain open; please check the park for course hours. Group and park events are cancelled through April 30. Patrons may want to check with individual parks to find out about park services. Historic homes, museums and gift shops are closed for the time being. Park grounds are open for hiking, picnicking and exploring. Tours of homes are also suspended at this time as well as tours of the two pioneer forts at Fort Boonesborough and Old Fort Harrod state parks. All state park playgrounds are closed. Anyone camping with reservations between now and April 30, 2020, will receive a full refund. Anyone wishing to cancel a reservation after April 30, 2020, until May 15, 2020, needs to call Reserve America at (888) 459-7275. For Park closures, click here.
Some boat ramps operated by the U.S. Corps of Engineers may be closed. Please check by visiting corps websites:
- Louisville District
- Nashville District
- Huntington District
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Louisiana
Access Impacts: None for state run facilities. The Governor is encouraging residents to be in nature but maintain social distancing. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries encourages outdoor activities including fishing, however visitors must practice social distancing and gather in groups of 10 or less. (LDWF) offices, facilities and public restrooms are closed.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Maine
Access Impacts: All inland waters have been opened to recreational boating and fishing as of March 20, 2020. Maine is working on reopening marinas, boatyards, and boat dealerships starting May 1. Businesses need to take a pledge with the state to adhere to a covid-19 safety checklist. If they were previously designated as essential, they do not have to take the pledge, but we are encouraging it anyway to show the state we are working on operating responsibly. On our website:
Step 1 -Read the checklists
Maine’s Official PHASE 1 Checklist for Marinas, Boatyards, and Marine Manufacturers
Maine’s General Guidance Covid-19 Prevention Checklist
Step 2 – Complete the state’s compliance form (option to receive a badge to show you have pledged to be compliant)
Step 3 – Educate staff, customers, and perhaps your local municipality/neighbors about the checklist
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Maryland
Access Impacts: Governor Hogan reopened boating, fishing, state parks and beaches on May 7. Read more here.
Boating: Recreational boating activities, including motorized and non-motorized vessels and personal watercraft, are permitted, however:
- Boaters must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
- No more than 10 people can be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
- Boats must be distanced from each other by at least 10 feet and are prohibited from rafting up, beaching, or having rendezvous events.
- Boats are prohibited from docking at restaurants or bars.
- Vessel and boat races remain prohibited.
- Marinas can reopen to recreational boaters, but must adhere to the Maryland Depart-ments of Commerce and Health guidelines.
- Pump-out stations and boats may resume operations under the Departments of Com-merce and Health guidelines.
- Local jurisdictions may choose to open public boat ramps, but must ensure social dis-tancing guidelines.
- All normal boating rules and regulations are in effect and must be followed.
Fishing: guidelines put forth by the state read: effective Thursday, May 7, at 7 a.m, recreational fishing activities, including catch-and-release, are allowed, however:
- When fishing from a boat, one must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
- No more than 10 people may be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
- When fishing from onshore or at a pier, social distancing guidelines must be followed.
- DNR fishing piers will reopen immediately.
- Fishing tournaments remain prohibited at this time.
- All normal rules and regulations regarding fishing are in effect and must be followed, in-cluding creel limits, gear restrictions, and seasons.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Massachusetts
Access Impacts: Inland boat ramps and canoe launches within state parks, forests, wildlife management areas, boating access facilities and other state owned properties remain open for use by boats being launched by vehicles registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, except where the access has already been closed due to parking restrictions or other restrictions. Read the full memo here.
Boat Ramp Guidelines:
- Ramps remain open subject to available parking. A ramp will be considered closed if all parking is full. Illegally parked cars will be ticketed and may be towed.
- All boat ramp and canoe launch users shall practice social distancing. Users should allow appropriate space for users of the boat ramp or launch and clear the ramp when users launch is complete.
- Users should ensure they are ready to depart quickly from the ramp or dock as soon as their boat is put into the water. Users not actively launching their boat should clear the launch area.
- Upon return to ramp, users should load their boat as quickly as safely possible and then clear the launch area.
- Use of ramps for organized fishing tournaments, derbies, or any other type of gathering is prohibited.
- Loitering on ramps or use of ramps for any activity other than launching boats is prohibited. Parking at ramps for activities other than launching boats is prohibited.
- Masks or face-coverings should be worn in public in accordance with the Department of Public Health’s advisory when social distancing is not possible.
Recreational boating is permitted under the following guidelines:
- Only persons from the same household should be together on a boat at one time.
- No gathering or groups of persons from multiple households will be permitted on boat ramps, docks, piers etc., and all users shall practice strict social distancing.
- All recreational crafts shall remain a safe distance apart. Tying boats or other crafts together is prohibited.
- All recreational boating is subject to the discretion of local officials, harbormasters, and law enforcement.
- All local rules, regulations, laws and Coast Guard requirements still apply.
For Hire Boating: For hire boating will not be permitted while the Governor’s stay at home advisory and essential services order is in effect.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Michigan
Access Impacts: Michigan state parks, recreation areas, trails and other state-managed lands remain open, provided all visitors adhere to the requirements for proper social distancing. Boating impacts: state harbors are closed through at least May 15. There will be no services available including bathroom buildings, electrical, fuel, pumpouts, etc and no slip reservations can be made. At this time, boat launches and parking lots at access sites remain open but fishing piers and vault toilets are closed. Read more here.
On April 24, Governor Whitmer issued a revised executive order which allows for motorized boating. Read more here.
At this time, boat launches and parking lots at access sites remain open but may have amenity closures. DNR-managed boating access sites that already were open for the season and remained open during the stay-at-home order will remain open. The addition of various amenities, such as the placement of courtesy piers and the reopening of bathrooms at boating access sites, will begin as staff time and maintenance schedules allow. Read more here.
Charter and fishing guide operations that involve boats, canoes and other marine vessels are not currently permitted. These activities should cease immediately and not resume until at least April 30. In addition to the DNR Law Enforcement Division, Michigan State Police and local law enforcement agencies have full authority to enforce the provisions of this order.
Further FAQ re-outdoor activities in Michigan can be found on the DNR’s website here.
Contact: Jill Sims (jsims@nmma.org)
Minnesota
Access Impacts: State parks, recreations areas, campgrounds and other public lands remain open to the public, however visitors will experience some changes in services available. Grand Portage State Park has been closed.Read more here.
On April 17, Governor Walz issued an Executive Order expanding allowable outdoor recreation activities such as hiking, golfing, fishing, hunting and more. The order also permits specific outdoor recreation businesses to reopen and remain open. These businesses include: bait shops, marina services, dock installation services, boat repair, outdoor shooting ranges, public and private trails, and golf courses. Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department put together a video on social distancing while boating, which can be viewed here.
Contact: Jill Sims (jsims@nmma.org)
Mississippi
Access Impacts: State Lakes and State Park Lakes reopened for fishing and boating on Monday, April 20, 2020 for day use only. Wildlife management areas remain open. Social distancing guidelines must be adhered to, group activities are limited to a maximum of 20 people.
The National Park Service has prohibited access to the offshore islands of the Mississippi section of Gulf Islands National Seashore the including beaching of vessels.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Missouri
Access Impacts: Missouri state parks remain open. Boat ramps are operating normally. The Department of Conservation reminds people that it is still critical for everyone to continue to heed all recommendations for physical distancing, avoiding overcrowding, hand-washing, and other public-health measures during outdoor activities.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Montana
Access Impacts: Montana state parks are open and most campgrounds have reopened as of May 1. Bannack State Park will remain closed. 1.
Fishing: fishing piers are open but social distancing guidelines are to be strictly followed.
Visitors are reminded to bring their own supplies when recreating on our state lands while practicing social distancing guidelines and adhering to Leave No Trace principals. Supplies should include hand sanitizer as it may not be available in all parks. All park events and programs have been cancelled until further notice.
For a list of Park and boat ramp closures, click here.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Nebraska
Access Impacts: Nebraska state parks and recreation areas remain open for day use, fishing and recreation with some facilities closures. Overnight camping at state parks, state recreation areas and wildlife management areas will be prohibited starting Monday, April 6 through Friday, May 8, with a possible extension. In addition, the closure of state park area lodging and cabins will be extended through May 8. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Nevada
Access Impacts: Governor Sisolak’s Executive Directive 10 allows outdoor recreation. Nevada state parks remain open for day use only and it is asked individuals practice social distancing when visiting. Lake Mead National Recreation Area has begun a phased reopening with boat ramps open. However, boaters must bring their own fuel. For more information regarding closures, click here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
New Hampshire
Access Impacts: New Hampshire state parks, boating and boating access points remain open. Toilet facilities are closed at NH Fish and Game boat ramps until further notice due to the COVID1-19 outbreak. Docks will not be installed until the social distancing restrictions are lifted. Anglers are urged to continue practicing social distancing recommendations from state and federal health agencies. Trout stocking is continuing as usual, NHFG will not post its weekly Fish Stocking Report online until further notice to help prevent groups of anglers from congregating in localized areas.
To check the status of individual parks, click here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
New Jersey
Access Impacts: Effective sunrise on May 2, all New Jersey state and county parks have reopened. Boaters are reminded they cannot congregate in parking lots, at boat ramps or at popular fishing locations. Parking lots at state parks has been reduced by 50%. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
New Mexico
Access Impacts: New Mexico State Parks began a phased reopening May 1. The first parks open for day-use on are: Cimarron Canyon, Ute Lake, Brantley Lake, Sumner Lake, Caballo Lake, Cerrillos Hills, Storrie Lake, and Villanueva. Remaining State Parks will be opened in future phases. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
New York
Access Impacts: On April 19, Governor Cuomo signed Executive Order 202.6, “Essential Business,” reopening Marinas, boatyards, and recreational marine manufacturers, for ongoing operations and boat repair/maintenance, where such facilities adhere to strict social distancing and sanitization protocols. No chartered watercraft services or rentals are permitted. Restaurant activity at such sites is limited to take-out or delivery only.
Boat Launches and Marinas: Marinas and boat launch sites are open where conditions allow. Call the park or regional office for more information.
State parks, trails and grounds of historic sites are open for open air however visitors are encouraged to recreate locally, practice social distancing, and use common sense to protect themselves and others. Entrance fees have been waived. New York State parks, trails, and grounds of historic sites are open for outdoor recreation, however visitors are encouraged to recreate locally, practice social distancing, and use common sense to protect themselves and others. Entrance fees have been waived. Read more here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
North Carolina
Access Impacts: Several North Carolina state parks are closed. Parks that adhere to social distancing guidelines may remain open. All Park offices, visitor centers, restrooms, bathhouses, campgrounds, and cabins are closed statewide. For a full list of park closures, read more here.
For a list of boating access area closings, click here.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
North Dakota
Access Impacts: North Dakota outdoor recreational facilities, including boat ramps that are accessible to the Missouri River and wildlife management areas remain open. State operated marinas may be closed.
All fishing tournaments in April and May have been revoked, per North Dakota Game and Fish. Additionally, the North Dakota 2020-22 fishing proclamation has been amended and the state Game and Fish Department is canceling the upcoming paddlefish snagging harvest season due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the amendment does allow for the possibility of a one-week snag-and-release season May 15-21, which is two weeks later than the normal opening day. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Ohio
Access Impacts: Ohio state parks, wildlife area, forests and nature preserves mostly remain open – including trails, dog parks, and non-marina docks. Some outdoor spaces, such as Hocking Hills State Park, have closed – thus it is encouraged to check the status before arrival. Other facilities, including lodges, campgrounds, cabins, golf courses, restrooms, shower houses, playgrounds, APV areas, horse camps and state park marina buildings are closed. Keep up to date on changing closure statuses here.
Clarification on fishing: Non-resident fishing license sales have temporarily been suspended. Individuals who currently possess a non-resident fishing license may fish in Ohio if they abide by ODH guidance to self-quarantine for 14 days before they do so.
Contact: Jill Sims (jsims@nmma.org)
Oklahoma
Access Impacts: Oklahoma state parks remain open and encourages effective social distancing. All visitors coming from the NY tri-state area, Washington state, Louisiana and California are required to self-quarantine for 14 days (see section 26).
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Oregon
Access Impacts: Oregon State Parks started offering limited day-use services Wednesday, May 6 at these parks listed below. Camping is not allowed at this time. Other parks will slowly return to offering services starting the week of May 11. Beach access is closed in many areas. Read more here.
National forests have closed most established recreation sites including campgrounds, trailheads, and restrooms. Campgrounds, day-use sites and restrooms are also closed on BLM lands. Wildlife areas remain open for wildlife viewing, fishing, and hunting but are closed from 10 pm – 4 am. The salmon and steelhead fisheries are closed on the Columbia River.
Boating: All boat launches inside closed state parks are closed. If you take in from a launch outside the state park, please note that your take-out point inside a state park will not be accessible. Some boat launches may be available starting May 6th. Please see above for parks with limited day-use openings and included boat ramps. The Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) maintains an interactive map of boat ramps that shows the location of Oregon boat ramps and who owns them. OSMB advises users to contact the owners of the ramps to find out whether they are open or closed. Boaters must stop at aquatic invasive species inspection stations
All recreational fishing, crabbing, and clamming reopened to non-residents on May 5. Although fishing seasons remain open, state officials strongly discourage anglers and boaters from traveling to get to those opportunities because travel violates the Governor’s Stay Home, Save Lives order. Please fish or hunt close to home if you do go. Many locations to fish, hunt, crab, and clam are closed, including some boat ramps, parking lots and restrooms.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Pennsylvania
Access Impacts: Pennsylvania boating facilities, trails, lakes, roads and parking are open but state parks and forest facilities are closed until May 8. Boating is a currently acceptable form of outdoor activities per the stay-at-home guidelines from the Governor and PA Department of Health when social distancing is practiced. DCNR is undertaking a phased reopening of Pennsylvania state park and forest facilities in keeping with Governor Wolf’s guidance and direction. It is important that as many people as possible wear a non-medical or homemade mask when leaving their homes per Governor Wolf’s executive order. The Department of Health has provided instructions on how to make a homemade mask. Marinas will be allowed to reopen starting on May 1.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Rhode Island
Access Impacts: As of Saturday, May 9 some state parks are open with restrictions as part of a gradual reopening of parks. A second phase will include the saltwater beaches, which will open later this spring with new restrictions in place. Boat launch sites are open where conditions allow. For a full list of parks that are open or closed, read more here.
Boating: Currently boating and marina operations are allowed as long as boaters are not within a park that is closed. Boat ramps are open except for those located within state parks. Social distancing guidelines must be followed. Visit DEM’s website for a list of public boat launching sites. Guidance for marinas can be found here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
South Carolina
Access Impacts: South Carolina State Parks opened on Friday, May 1, on a limited basis. Group facilities like picnic shelters and community buildings will remain closed initially. State park Visitor Centers are scheduled to reopen on Monday, May 11, and feature proper signage, physical indicators, and barriers in place to ensure the safety of staff and visitors. All state park retail stores and spaces should open by Friday, May 15. SCPRT will use SCDHEC and CDC guidance to determine the maximum occupancy in these common area facilities in order to maintain social distancing rules and limit contact between staff and visitors. For more information, click here.
Governor McMaster issued an Executive Order reopening all public boat ramps and beach access points.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
South Dakota
Access Impacts: South Dakota state park offices are closed or have limited staff, but the parks themselves are open. Public boat launches remain open to the public. For ramp locations and seasonal status, check here. Depending on ice, water levels and other weather conditions, it may take additional time to place more docks in the water as additional open water opportunities become available. For more information click here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Tennessee
Access Impacts: Most Tennessee state parks are open for day-use visitation between 7am and sunset starting April 24, 2020. The public will have access to most trails, boat ramps, marinas, golf courses and other outdoor recreation opportunities. Park facilities and overnight accommodations will remain closed. For full details on the park statuses, read more here.
If going to any location to boat or fish, be sure to check with the managing authority to make sure that place is open for recreation. There are several localities and counties that have closed some parks and boat ramps.
For a complete list of boat ramps in Tennessee, click here.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Texas
Access Impacts: Overnight camping will be allowed in a few Texas state parks beginning May 18. All Texas state parks are open for day use only and passes must be reserved online in advance. For current information, visit here. Additional guidelines for the visit include: individuals must wear face coverings at all times; individuals must maintain a six-foot distance from people not in your group; and gather in groups of no more than five people (even for family groups).
Some boating and fishing access points are closed. To determine if the access site you’d like to visit is open, read more here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Utah
Access Impacts: Anglers and visitors to state parks may travel outside the county where you reside. To find fishing ponds and lakes near you, visit here. In an effort to adhere to social distancing recommendations and prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) issued an emergency order April 1, temporarily suspending hot water decontaminations and altering inspections for watercraft leaving Lake Powell. Beginning May 15, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area will reopen access to several boat ramps, overnight camping and other park activities. For more information, click here.
Utah state parks remain open, but some state park visitor centers are closed. It is important to note, state parks remain open only to visitors residing in the same county where the state park is located.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Vermont
Access Impacts: Vermont state parks and boating facilities are free and open, however outdoor activities should take place within 10 miles of home to minimize travel and potential risk of exposure to COVID-19. Read more here.
Contact: David Dickerson (ddickerson@nmma.org)
Virginia
Access Impacts: Virginia Wildlife Management Areas. Lakes and rivers operated by the Department Of Game and Inland Fisheries are open and boating is allowed. Check with your local county and city for any additional closures of parks, lakes or piers. Burke Lake Park parking area and boat launch are closed. Please find additional statewide guidance here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
Washington
Access Impacts: State managed boat ramps and launches, parks, wildlife areas, and recreational lands reopened on Tuesday, May 5 for local day-use only. State-managed boat launches and marinas also opened May 5 for day use only. No overnight moorage will be allowed. Social distancing guidelines must be followed and only those living in the same household may go boating together. Read more here.
Coastal saltwater fishing and shellfish harvesting in marine areas 1-4, including coastal clam digs, will also remain closed in consultation with local health departments, who continue to be concerned regarding the potential health impact to their communities from outside visitors. AIS check stations are still active, and WDFW staff are inspecting watercraft for invasive species. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
West Virginia
Access Impacts: Park lodges, cabins and campgrounds are closed. New camping reservations have been suspended through May 15. Day-use areas, including hiking and biking trails and fishing lakes, remain open for public use. For more information, click here.
Contact: Lee Gatts (lgatts@nmma.org)
Wisconsin
Access Impacts: Currently, some Wisconsin State Park properties are closed and some are open. Effective May 1, most Wisconsin State Park properties will be open to the public. Admission fees will be required and there will be various property conditions in place including new hours of operation. Properties may be limiting admission based on capacity. Please make sure to seek out current property information on our website before visiting. Read more here.
Boating and fishing:
- DNR boat launches are open at open state properties.
- All anglers and recreational boaters should practice social distancing and keep travel to a minimum.
- If individuals can lawfully access Wisconsin’s rivers and lakes, they are free to navigate upon them while engaging in outdoor recreation.
Contact: Jill Sims (jsims@nmma.org)
Wyoming
Access Impacts: Wyoming state parks will reopen camping to residents on May 15. Wyoming state parks remain open, but visitor centers are closed. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is encouraging social distancing and to avoid congregating with others in parking lots, public access areas and trailheads. Read more here.
Contact: Libby Yranski (lyranski@nmma.org)
