Missouri State Parks, a division of the Department of Natural Resources, has announced the phased reopening of campgrounds as a part of its continued efforts to return to normal operations in conjunction with Governor Mike Parson’s “Show Me Strong” Recovery Plan.
A news release says Missouri State Parks campgrounds will reopen to accommodate existing campground reservations at 3 p.m. on Monday, May 18. In addition, new reservations will be accepted on Monday, May 18, for arrival dates beginning Tuesday, May 26.
Missouri State Parks also will be instituting a number of changes related to campground operations to better facilitate appropriate social distancing and improve the safety of operations for Missouri State Parks’ guests and staff.
The additional measures include:
· Reservations will be required prior to arrival.
· Campground occupancy will be limited at some parks and sites.
· Missouri State Parks will increase the frequency of cleaning shower houses and restrooms.
· Campers will use a new contactless, self-check-in feature.
· There will be occupancy restrictions in shower houses and restrooms.
· Missouri State Parks will only accept credit and debit cards.
One of the changes visitors will experience is a new contactless, self-check-in feature. Prior to arriving at the state park or historic site, campers will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access their reservation online and check in on the day of arrival. Alternatively upon arrival, campers can check in by opening the camera on their smartphone device and hovering over the QR code posted at the campsite, and following the prompt. Missouri State Parks staff will be available at the park or historic site to answer any questions.
Campers also should be aware that reservations will now be required at most campgrounds and park-run lodging prior to arrival, and can be made up until 7 p.m. the day before arrival. First-come, first-served camping will no longer be available at most state park campgrounds. New reservations can be made beginning Monday, May 18, for arrival dates on Tuesday, May 26, and beyond, by visiting mostateparks.com
Missouri State Park beaches will open to the public on Thursday, May 21, with visitors expected to practice social distancing.
Visitors should review signage posted throughout the parks and state historic sites, and diligently follow the guidelines for the health and safety of others. Come prepared to enjoy the outdoors responsibly by following the guidance provided by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
· Keep a minimum distance of six feet between you and others.
· Avoid crowded areas and groups of people.
· Stay close-to-home and travel with only those from your household.
· Wash your hands often.
· Come prepared and carry hand sanitizers, soaps, wipes and water.
· Avoid handshakes, hugs and touching your face.
· Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
· Be kind and considerate of others.
· Most importantly, stay home if you are sick.
Visitors are encouraged to visit mostateparks.com to find a park close to home and to check for individual park advisories before heading to the park.