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COVID-19: Some County Parks, Trails, Golf Courses and Gardens Re-Opening

Posted Wednesday, April 29th, 2020

Governor Reopens State Parks and Allows County Parks to Reopen — Requires Social Distancing

The Morris County Park Commission will have a partial reopening of its 38 distinct park facilities on Saturday thanks to an order issued today by Gov. Phil Murphy, who reopened state parks and allowed county parks to also reopen, but only if they can allow for proper social distancing.COVID-19: Some County Parks, Trails, Golf Courses and Gardens Re-Opening

In Morris County, many trails and grounds of county parks managed by the Morris County Park Commission will reopen, including all four county golf courses.

“The Morris County Park Commission understands the importance of providing access to your parks but is also responsible for the safety of park staff and patrons along the stewardship responsibility of protecting the natural, cultural and historic resources under its care,” said Park Commission Executive Director Dave Helmer.

Please do your best when accessing these important resources to respect your fellow park visitor and park resources you are enjoying,” he added.

(Parks & Trails may be closed for periods of time for park maintenance and park project purposes without announcement.)

Take a look at the Comprehensive List of parks, sites, and facilities that are open or closed.

walking trail at Hedden County Park

Walking trail at Hedden County Park

Photo of entrance to the Columbia Trail

The Columbia Trail in Washington Township

All programs, permits, and events remain canceled at this time through May 31, 2020.

 

Please Practice Social Distancing at County Parks and on Trails

While the Commission is delighted to be allowed to let park patrons have access to their parks again, patrons must understand there are restrictions in place and social distancing is required to visit Morris County parks, facilities and trails.

Please adhere to Governor Murphy’s April 29, 2020 Executive Order that recommend wearing a face covering, or having one available if you encounter other hikers or trail users.

To allow various parks and trails to remain open for passive recreation, patrons are asked to follow proper CDC protocol and behavior modifications, including but not limited to:

  • Recommended use of face covering;
  • Only park in designated parking areas, do not park on roadsides;
  • Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.
  • Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails;
  • Understand that public restrooms are not available but some sites may have portable restrooms (please bring personal sanitary supplies for yourself);
  • While on trails, warn other users of your presence, and step aside to let others pass;
  • Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.

Continue to consult local and state health management websites, including the Morris County Office of Health Management website for information, on COVID-19.

More information: The Morris County Park Commission will offer periodic updates as the current crisis situation evolves. Visit www.morrisparks.net and the Park Commission Facebook site.

Questions: Please email [email protected].