PA Preps For Big Crowds At State Parks: What To Know If You Go

PENNSYLVANIA — Pennsylvania state parks and forests are open for the unofficial start of the summer season, but there are a few things you should know before you go.

First, officials say they are expecting crowding at parks during holidays and weekends this summer, especially when the weather is nice. Overnight accommodations like camping and cabins for the Memorial Day weekend are close to capacity.

Also, you'll have to wear a mask if you are unvaccinated.

The park system follows the CDC guidance, which states that fully vaccinated people — two weeks after their final dose — can resume activities that they did prior to the pandemic without wearing a mask or physically distancing.

For unvaccinated people, the state's face-covering order remains in effect. That order will be lifted on June 28 or once 70 percent of Pennsylvanians over the age of 18 are fully vaccinated — whichever comes first.

Attendance for outdoor programming at PA State Parks is capped at 40 people through May 31. Starting June 1, there will not be any attendance limits on outdoor programming. Indoor programming attendance limits will be capped at 50 percent.

“We are asking visitors to remain respectful of guidelines and other people as we transition to more normal operations,” Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “Time in the outdoors has been a means for coping during the pandemic, and we expect many people will continue to seek those opportunities now that they know the wonderful natural places we have in the commonwealth.”

Reservations for camping and cabins can be made 11 months in advance. Learn more at the state park reservation system.

State park visitation saw a 26 percent increase during the COVID-19 pandemic and DCNR said it expects that growth to continue "as many people have added park use to their normal routines."