Governor Brown announces phased reopening of parks and rec sites

Governor Brown announced Tuesday that some state recreational facilities and parks will begin to reopen immediately.

While it was previously stated that plans to reopen Oregon parks would not begin until May 15, Brown says that effective this week, particular parks, outdoor recreational facilities, and ski hills will now be open for business.

Enjoying Oregon’s beauty and bounty is one of our state’s time-honored traditions — and as we begin to slowly open up recreation sites, state parks and ski areas, we must each take personal responsibility and be good stewards of our parks, and each other. https://t.co/eChohwKXWL

— Governor Kate Brown (@OregonGovBrown) May 5, 2020

A new phased plan is now in place, and the first set of facilities are set to open their doors to visitors on Wednesday.

Consisting of mainly inland parks, facilities include Tryon Creek in Portland, Willamette Mission north of Keizer, Mongold boat ramp at Detroit Lake, State Capitol State Park in Salem, The Cove Palisades boat ramp at Lake Billy Chinook near Culver, Prineville Reservoir boat ramp near Prineville, Joseph Stewart boat ramp on Lost Creek Lake near Shady Cove, and Pilot Butte to pedestrians (no vehicles) in Bend.

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It is important to note that physical distancing and health safety measures should still be followed while visiting open facilities.

Updates to the list of opened facilities will grow on short notice, according to Brown, and the updates will be published on the Oregon State Parks website.

“We know these last six weeks has seemed longer, but your health is important to us,” says Lisa Sumption, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Director. “It is true outdoor recreation boosts our mental and physical health, but parks concentrate people in a community, and we have to do this carefully if it’s going to work. We need your cooperation to keep parks open.”