Golf Courses, Private Campgrounds to Open May 1, With Public Health in Mind

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Image via Merion Golf Club.

Golf courses, private campgrounds, marinas and guided fishing trips can reopen statewide May 1, with some restrictions, Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday.

The businesses must follow updated life-sustaining business guidance and FAQ issued by the Wolf Administration to resume outdoor recreation while prioritizing public health and safety.

Campgrounds in state parks will remain closed through Thursday, May 14.

“As the weather warms and daylight lengthens, enjoying time outdoors is an important way to manage stress,” Wolf said. “As we start to take measured, limited steps to reopen our commonwealth, reopening these industries will help to rebuild our economy and strengthen our mental health.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance on visiting parks and recreational facilities.

These guidelines must be followed statewide by businesses and when engaging in outdoor activity while the state disaster declaration remains in effect.

  • Stay close to home: Pennsylvanians are encouraged to enjoy permitted outdoor recreational activities within their community and avoid crowding popular destinations.
  • Practice social distancing: Maintain the recommended minimum 6 feet apart from fellow recreationists.
  • Pennsylvanians are also encouraged to wear a mask or protective garment that covers the nose and mouth any time they go outside. If a parking lot at a park is full or there are too many people on the same trail, find an alternate place to recreate. Cross the street to avoid running directly past another runner or wait longer at a golf hole for a fellow golfer to move forward.
  • Minimize risk to others: Individuals should only go out if they feel healthy and have not been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid surfaces that are touched often, such as doorknobs and handrails.
  • Have a plan: Create a safety plan before heading outdoors. Explain to children the need to keep their distance from others, even if they happen to see a friend while outside. Discuss with partners, social distancing while on the golf course. Think through how to avoid other runners when waiting to safely cross a street at the same time.

For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit on.pa.gov/coronavirus.

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