05/07/2020
Not too far away for a get away
WooHoo! It’s almost time!! PLEASE READ THESE IMPORTANT GUIDELINES!!! MANY IMPORTANT CHANGES !!
UPDATED 5/6/2020.
Please note new changes to parks operations during the COVID-19 health emergency.
In accordance with state recommendations pertaining to COVID-19, we want to share with you important information about Iowa state parks.
State Parks, Forests and Preserves visitors are reminded to strictly abide to the social distancing rules and not gather in groups. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and bring supplies from home including disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and other hygiene products.
Park Facility Changes (Updated 5/06/2020):
Campgrounds:
On May 8 at 8:00 a.m., campgrounds, including modern, backpack and equestrian sites, will be open on a first-come, first-served basis for overnight stays for the weekend of May 8-10.
On May 8 at 9:00 a.m., on-line reservations can be made for check-in dates on or after Monday May 11.
Only self-contained units, including tents with portable toilets, will be allowed. Some campgrounds may be closed due to construction or maintenance issues, so please check the specific closure information below for each park before planning a camping trip.
Some campsites may be closed to ensure social distancing.
Campers only in the campground; no guests allowed.
Campfires at campsites should be for occupants of the campsite only.
Any current reservations starting prior to May 14 and extending past that date will be honored.
All modern restrooms and shower buildings, including water fountains, are currently closed.
Shelters, cabins, lodges, youth camps, group camps and playgrounds will be closed through May 14, 2020.
If you feel cancelling your stay is the safest choice, we will waive cancellation fees for visits (cabins, campsites, lodges, shelters) with arrival dates through May 31, 2020. The $4.00 non-refundable reservation fee ($6.00 if the reservation was originally made by phone) will still be charged. To cancel, contact the Customer Service Call Center at (877) 427-2757.
Programs and events at all state parks are cancelled through May 14, 2020. We are also temporarily closing any visitor centers or museums managed by state parks.
We are monitoring the situation. We promise to remain diligent and intentional in protecting you and making your visit a great experience. As conditions change, so may our policies on park visitation and overnight stays. We will keep you informed of any changes moving forward.
Other areas of state parks and forests that remain open for day use include: trails, roads, lake and river access points, boat ramps, shorelines, and open spaces such as grassy areas.
Here’s how you can help:
According to State of Iowa recommendations, limit your group size and stay at least 6 feet away from other park visitors.
If you have been sick in the last two weeks, please stay at home for your health and the safety of others.
Avoid popular areas where people may congregate such as scenic overlooks, buildings, beaches, etc.
Please maintain distance between you and other park visitors according to guidelines and recommendations by health officials. Please take into consideration the health of others when spending time outdoors.
Pack extra soap or hand sanitizer. Soap or sanitizer will not be easily available at state parks due to limited supplies. Be sure and bring your own and wash your hands frequently.
Additional information on best practices for keeping you and your family safe can be found online at the CDC website.
Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We appreciate your support of Iowa state parks as we all work together to keep each other safe.
