DNREC state parks, wildlife area visitors must bring masks starting May 1

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced that starting Friday, May 1, people age 13 or older are required to bring a face mask with them to enter state parks, wildlife areas and reserves, and should wear the mask when they cannot maintain social distancing from other visitors. Those who do not bring face masks when visiting these areas may be required to leave by DNREC Natural Resources Police officers or staff.

This decision is in accordance with Gov. John Carney’s 13th modification to his state of emergency declaration, which requires Delawareans to wear face coverings in public settings. Visitors to DNREC parks and areas must wear a face covering where social distancing is difficult, such as on boat ramps, narrow trails, and when they encounter anyone not in their household, including other visitors and staff. Masks are required at all times at the Ommelanden shooting range.

“In order to keep our outdoor public spaces safe for all members of the public to enjoy, visitors to state parks, wildlife areas and reserves must heed social distancing and mask requirements,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin. “We need our visitors to do their part to help keep these areas safe for everyone during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Visitors are also asked to be mindful of the length and frequency of their visits, and to avoid peak times. The safest way to enjoy state parks is sparingly, as needed, and during off-peak times, before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. daily.

While most state parks, wildlife areas and reserves continue to stay open for Delawareans during the Stay Home, Stay Safe emergency order from Carney, DNREC has a few guidelines for visitors to stay safe:

• Bring a mask and wear it when needed. Parks and wildlife areas will be crowded as the weather warms, so social distancing will be more difficult.

• Plan ahead. Many amenities are closed, including all public restrooms.

• Be prepared. Bring soap, water and hand sanitizer.

• Stay close to home. This is not the time to travel for outdoor adventure. Out-of-state visitors must observe a 14-day quarantine before entering a park, wildlife area or reserve.

• Keep the group small. Make sure to enjoy the outdoors with immediate household members only. Do not attend or host any gatherings like barbecues or birthday parties.

• Avoid close-contact activities. Instead, choose outdoor recreation like fishing, hiking or bike riding.

• Practice social distancing. Keep six feet between oneself and others. Warn others of one’s presence and give them enough space to pass on boat ramps, paths and trails. Leave at least one parking space between one’s vehicle and the next vehicle. Areas may be closed if lack of responsible social distancing becomes an issue.

• Leave no trace. Parks are always carry-in/carry-out with regard to trash, including disposable gloves and masks. Staff resources are limited, and do not include trash removal.

• If sick, stay home. Don’t visit parks, wildlife areas or reserves if any member of the household is not feeling well. 

Any failure to comply with the declared state-of-emergency provisions may constitute a criminal offense.

Anyone concerned about an individual or group in any state park or wildlife area may contact DNREC’s Natural Resources Police via Tip411, DNREC’s smartphone app, or call the 24-hour DNREC Dispatch Center at 302-739-4580. Tip411 allows the public to easily report concerns. The app is available for free download by searching DENRP via the Google Play Store or the iTunes App Store.

For the latest information on COVID-19 in Delaware, visit de.gov/coronavirus.