The most accurate information on your state DNR response to the COVID-19 pandemic is available on your state’s DNR website, DNR social media channels, DNR Information Center and email updates. Find a link to your state website here.
DELAWARE
The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will limit the number of visitors within state parks and wildlife areas, following crowding and public health concerns. Since April 10, vehicle access will be limited when visitor usage is observed to be cause crowding and prevent safe social distancing. Limits will be implemented by DNREC’s Natural Resources Police.
Bathrooms remain closed in all parks and wildlife areas and at boat ramps. Beaches are closed except for exercise, dog-walking and some vehicle surf-fishing under restricted conditions. Updated information on COVID-19 in Delaware is available online.
IOWA
At this time, Iowa Department of Natural Resources offices are closed to the public and employees have transitioned to work remotely. To further reduce the spread of COVID-19, the DNR is encouraging use of online services for submitting applications, payments and other daily tasks and interaction with DNR staff.
For up-to-date information on DNR services, facilities and events impacted by COVID-19, click here.
MINNESOTA
Grand Portage State Park along the Canadian border on the North Shore of Lake Superior has been temporarily closed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The action was taken at the request of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, because of concerns about public health risks posed by COVID-19 and nonessential travel to the Park.
The Park is located entirely within the territorial boundaries of the Grand Portage Reservation and is situated on land owned by the Band and leased to the State. Minnesota Laws explicitly established the Park to be a cooperative venture between the DNR and the Band.
MISSOURI
Kids’ fishing day events on May 2 and May 16 at the state trout parks have been cancelled this year. The May 2 event was at Montauk State Park, and the May 16 event at Roaring River State Park. The Department of Conservation also has extended the temporary closures of its facilities and cancellations of all public events and programs through April 30.
NEBRASKA
Overnight camping at state parks, state recreation areas and wildlife management areas has been prohibited through May 8, with a possible extension to prevent the potential for spread of COVID-19 by the the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. In addition, the closure of state park area lodging and cabins has been extended through May 8.
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recommends travelers coming to Nebraska or back to Nebraska from out-of-state should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing, self-monitor for symptoms, and self-quarantine for 14 days, if feasible.
State parks and recreation areas remain open for day use. A limited number of restrooms, which will be disinfected regularly, will be available. Refunds will be given to campers who have prepaid fees. The camping closure will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary.
For a list of all Game and Parks cancellations, postponements and closures through May 31 click here.
TENNESSEE
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has suspended in-person service at all TWRA offices. Until further notice offices will not be open for walk-in service.
Persons can still call any office or email ask.TWRA@tn.gov. Licenses and boat registration are available online 24 hours a day.
TEXAS
Texas State Parks are closed to the public to maintain the safest environment for visitors, volunteers and staff. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will continue to stay current with the latest public health recommendations and will announce when a definite reopening date has been determined.
Despite implementing increasingly restrictive visitor use measures to help minimize the transmission of COVID-19 at parks, TPWD has reached a point where public safety considerations must take precedence over continued operations. Difficulty in ensuring compliance with social distancing, problems in maintaining adequate supplies and keeping park facilities sufficiently sanitized are only a few of the challenges encountered by state park staff. Questions regarding state park reservations can be emailed to customer.service@tpwd.texas.gov, and detailed general park information can be found online.
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has closed 40 State Parks, Forests and Recreational Areas due to unprecedented crowds, litter, vandalism and the need to protect the health and safety of visitors and staff during the COVID-19 emergency.
The DNR will adjust operations as conditions change, and will continue to monitor on-the-ground circumstances each day to determine if more park closures or an entire state park system closure becomes necessary. For updates on the rapidly evolving situation, visit the DNR website.
For specific information regarding the COVID-19 the DNR advises monitoring the DHS website for frequent updates.