NH State Parks Response to COVID-19

New Hampshire State Parks Response to COVID-19

Maintaining the safety of our visitors and our staff is a top priority for New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation. Our Parks remain open as we closely monitor COVID-19 and its presence in the state. Most NH State Parks  are open and operating on normal hours for this time of the year. What this means is that many of our parks facilities are normally closed during the Winter months and are not scheduled to reopen until warmer weather arrives and the threat of freezing has subsided. Many parking areas are open and hiking trails and recreational areas can be accessed.

We encourage New Hampshire residents and visitors to review information provided by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services as it relates to the virus. We know our guests are interested in our efforts to help keep your family healthy.

We recognize the importance nature has in helping to relieve stress during this time and are committed to ensuring our guests and staff continue to have a safe and memorable experience at our state parks. While every individual must make decisions based on their own health, willingness to take on risk, and recommendations and mandates from local, state and federal governments, at the moment, being outdoors and isolated (dispersed recreation) meets current “social distancing” recommendations.

What is Social Distancing? To stop the spread of coronavirus, health and government officials recommend avoiding large gatherings and maintaining a distance of 6 feet from other people. This reduces the chance of contact with those knowingly or unknowingly carrying the infection.

How can you practice Social distancing your NH State Parks? State parks may be the best way to social distance while getting fresh air at the same time. Guests are still welcome to enjoy the public outdoor areas at state parks, recreation areas, state forests, state trails and, of course, our lakes, rivers and streams.