Here at Delaware State Parks, we know that getting out and exercising during this pandemic is essential. With our parks being one of the few recreational areas to visit, we all must take responsibility and practice social distancing while enjoying the outdoors.  Check out these tips to follow when visiting Delaware State Parks.

Practice Good Hygiene

Practicing good hygiene should be taking place before, during, and after your visit to DE State Parks. During your visit, we recommend that you bring hand sanitizer and avoid touching your face. Find more information to avoid spreading germs.

Limited Access to Restrooms and Water Fountains

Before heading to any Delaware State Park, be prepared for closed public restroom facilities, including bathrooms, bathhouses and portable toilets, in state parks, wildlife areas and state boat ramps.

Access to drinking water may also be limited. To help with the spreading of COVID-19, we encourage visitors to bring their own water. Bringing your own water supply will limit your need for water fountains and will keep yourself hydrated during your outdoor adventure. We always recommend using a reusable water bottle rather than a disposable one!

Share the Trails

During this time, trails may be busier than usual. While on the trails, be sure to warn other trail users of your presence as you pass them. A friendly “coming up on your left” will be plenty when passing visitors.

Avoid Playgrounds

Delaware State Parks has closed all its playgrounds, but they may still be open in other areas. Surfaces like slides and swings have a lot of touchpoints that could potentially spread the virus.

Give Some Space

Keep your social distance, even when outside! Be sure to observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 ft. from other persons at all times. Practicing social distancing is a key component to help reduce opportunities for disease transmission. To help avoid close contact activities, try fishing, hiking, paddle boarding, riding a bicycle.

Carry In-Carry Out Trash Policy

Delaware State Park is a carry in-carry out park which means that whatever trash you bring in, you must take with you. There are no public trash cans in Delaware State Parks. This program has been an overwhelming success and your continuing cooperation means cleaner parks for everyone.

If You’re Sick, Stay Home

If you’re sick or have been sick in the past two weeks, please stay home to recuperate. Do not use trails if you are exhibiting symptons.

Check Out the Play Outside app

Delaware State Parks offers Play Outside, a map-based, mobile-friendly app that helps visitors find parks, natural areas, trails and more. Filter the search by county and facility to find appropriate options during the coronavirus period. As a reminder, the public is currently prohibited from accessing beaches except to exercise or walk their dogs where dogs are permitted. Beach access from within Cape Henlopen, Delaware Seashore and Fenwick Island state parks is prohibited at this time. Parking and fishing at the Indian River Inlet within Delaware Seashore State Park is permitted at this time.

Additional resources are available at dnrec.alpha.delaware.gov/coronavirus and destateparks.com/Covid19.