Gov. Mark Gordon announced Wednesday that Wyoming residents would be allowed to camp at state parks again starting May 15.
State parks have been open for day-use activities, but not overnight visits, in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. When the restriction is lifted, only Wyoming residents will be allowed to camp in state parks here.
“We will have some new operational procedures in place for our state parks, and I ask for Wyoming citizens’ patience in dealing with these new procedures,” Gordon said. “They are designed to make it easier for you. “
The governor didn’t offer details about the new procedures, save that one of the changes involved a reservation system. Gordon said State Parks Director Darin Westby would participate in Thursday’s COVID-19 press briefing and would go over the new procedures.
Gordon also announced he would be extending the 14-day quarantine requirement for out-of-state visitors to May 8. He also asked that potential visitors to Wyoming delay their vacation plans for the time being.
As municipalities around the state with limited caseloads begin to grow anxious to reopen businesses, Gordon urged Wyomingites to be vigilant of the risks associated with coronavirus. He also noted that out-of-state visitors have been coming to Wyoming. February visitation at state campgrounds was as high as a typical June, primarily driven by patrons from as far away as New York and South Carolina.