DES MOINES, Iowa -- As campgrounds begin opening up today to walk-in, first come, first served, campers with self-contained restrooms, and visitors continue to take advantage of state parks, the DNR is encouraging everyone to check the DNR website for temporary closures before traveling to any of these areas.
Some parks and campgrounds have closures due to construction or maintenance projects, maintenance etc., so it’s important to check the closure website ahead of time.
DNR parks staff will be closely monitoring parks and campground areas and remind visitors and campers to obey physical distancing guidelines and other guidelines released earlier this week by the DNR.
Some pit latrines in high use areas will be open, but all other restrooms, drinking fountains and shower houses will remain closed. Park visitors for day use areas, should utilize specific and designated parking lots and not park on the sides of roads or trails, as well as obey all posted signage.
Today, the DNR’s reservation system for reservable campgrounds opened up online to begin making reservations starting Monday, May 11.
Iowa has 68 state parks and 4 state forests for visitors to enjoy with hiking trails, lake recreation and camping, to learn more visit: www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks or www.iowadnr.gov/Things-to-Do/Camping