COLUMBUS, Ohio — For many people, Memorial Day weekend means time spent with friends and family in the great outdoors, but with COVID-19, there are rules.
Under the Camp Safe Ohio Order, there are guidelines for both campers and campsite operators as they reopen.
Here are some rules for campers per the order:
- Only one family household may occupy each site, with a pre-determined limit for any campsite (always 10 people or fewer)
- Use social distancing and maintain at least six feet between individuals from other households in all areas of the campgrounds and with other campsites
- Do not gather in groups
- Practice self-contained camping when possible
- It is recommended you stay home when you don't feel well
- It is recommended you wear a mask when entering buildings or interacting with other campers in close proximity
- Practice good personal hygiene
- If possible, it is recommended campers bring trash bags, food, and supplies.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) said a reservation will be required. Only campers who reserved space will be allowed to camp. No walk-in campsites will be offered.
Hocking Hills State Park sites are slated to reopen this summer after closing amid the coronavirus pandemic.
ODNR said Cantwell Cliffs and Rock House trails are scheduled to open June 15 at Hocking Hills State Park. At Hocking State Forest — the horse camp, Airplane Rock, and the bridge trails north of the rappelling area will also open on June 15.
Trails, campground sites, cabin areas and other sites, such as Old Man’s Cave, will reopen later this summer.
ODNR said it will take new reservations for the campground and cabin areas with an arrival date of July 15 or later.
All reservations through June 30 will be automatically canceled and people will be issued a full refund.