Non-Resident Camping now open in Wyoming State Parks
by Wyoming State Parks
June 3, 2020
Beginning June 1st, camping in Wyoming State Parks is open to out-of-state residents.
To support the overall health of the public, Wyoming State Parks have been open to outdoor recreation throughout this pandemic. Because of a relatively low number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state, camping was opened to Wyoming residents on May 15th. The restriction of out-of-state campers was put in place to cut down on the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
"Our team is excited to be able to increase our economic impact to the State and local economies by bringing in our consumers from around the country." Darin Westby, agency director of Wyoming State Parks & Cultural Resources said. "Our criteria for opening camping to non-residents has always been when surrounding states opened their camping, and their respective COVID-19 cases began leveling. Now is the time."
Regardless of residency, all persons interested in camping at Wyoming State Parks must still go through the reservation system to secure a campsite at all locations except Hawk Springs State Recreation Area, some sites on the west side of Boysen State Park, and Connor Battlefield State Historic Site near Ranchester (those campgrounds are still open on a first-come, first-served basis). Visitors can still secure a spot without a prior reservation, but must do so through the reservation system upon arrival at their chosen park.
Additionally, headquarters buildings at the various Wyoming State Parks have opened, allowing for the sale of annual day-use and overnight camping permits. Visitors are asked to join staff in adhering to social distancing recommendations whether meeting in offices, recreating at boat ramps, working at fish cleaning stations, or gathering at beaches and other areas.
Cabins and yurts are available for three-day reservations, Friday through Sunday. This will ensure that each structure will be cleaned and disinfected prior to the next reservation.
Wyoming State Parks continues to request that people recreate responsibly so Wyoming State Parks can continue to remain open for all to enjoy.
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