The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is monitoring state parks to ensure social distancing is being practiced and picnicking is no longer allowed amid the coronavirus outbreak.
DEEP said they will provide access to parks for solitary recreation for as long as they can and the parks are being monitored for social distancing.
As warmer weather approaches, residents are urged to rethink their plans to visit the parks as new restrictions are in place. DEEP said picnicking is no longer authorized and gathering in one place at one time in groups over five people is not allowed.
Walking, hiking, fishing and sharing the outdoors as a small family unit or small household group is allowed as long as social distancing is practiced, DEEP added.
Penalties for violating gather size or park walk-in rules can range from a verbal warning to expulsion from the park to criminal charges.
Local
Residents are reminded to expect parks to close as the weather warms. You can see the latest closure's on DEEP's Twitter page here.
