Lake Sammamish State Park to Open May 5
Lake Sammamish State Park will re-open Tuesday, May 5 as the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and the state departments of Natural Resources and Fish and Wildlife has announced that state parks can now open for day-use recreation.
Although the park will be open, playgrounds will remain closed and fenced off and picnic shelters will also be closed to the public as well. Shelters will be roped off and tables will be removed to prevent groups from assembling. Picnic tables will be available but spaced out according to social distancing measures. Bathrooms will be open to the public.
The re-opening will apply to state-managed parks, wildlife areas, recreation land and boat launches. It may take several days for gates to be unlocked and sites to be serviced at remote areas due to limited staff capacity. Visitor Centers, camping and overnight accommodations will remain closed until further notice.
Some parks may not open immediately due to impacts on rural communities and the potential for crowding. State Parks is working with local communities and its partners to determine the best approach and timing to reopening these areas.
The latest information about closures and restrictions can be found on the WDFW website and specific information about Covid-19 and State Parks can be found here. The State Parks social media team is updating its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram posts regularly.
#RecreateResponsibly
Washington’s diverse and enthusiastic community of outdoor recreationists will play a key role in ensuring that the public’s return to state recreation areas and parks happens safely.
The move to responsibly reopen our public parks and access to recreation is a crucial step in the recovery process. The past few months have shown that people are yearning to step out into the fresh air.
Keeping public lands open will depend on our collective commitment to social distancing and following responsible recreation guidelines.
Tips to recreate responsibly
* Plan Ahead – While many state-managed land destinations are open for day-use, other local and federal lands may still be closed. Pack your lunch and get gas before you go, don’t make unnecessary stops to or from your destination. Do not carpool with people other than your immediate household. If you are sick stay home.
* Come Prepared – Visitors may find reduced or limited restroom services as staff begin the process to reopen facilities. Bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper with you. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth if you find yourself near others with a mask or other facial covering.
* Stay Close to Home – This is not the time to travel long distances to recreate. If your destination is crowded, be prepared to go somewhere else or come back at another time. Also, make sure to enjoy the outdoors with your immediate household members only. Recreation with those you don’t live with creates new avenues for transmission.
A daily Discover Pass for $10 or an annual pass for $30 is required to enter the park. To purchase passes or for for more information, visit the Discover Pass website or call 866-320-9933.