Most National Parks are open to some degree this weekend, in spite of the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s a rundown of the status of some popular destinations.
As the National Park Service follows guidance from the White House, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state and local public health authorities on a phased reopening of some trails and monuments that were closed in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, some parks popular with area residents are sure to see an increase in visitors during Memorial Day weekend.
However, be aware that many parks, while open, are still operating at reduced staffing, and with fewer amenities.
Some parks, like Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, remain in Phase One of their reopening.
If you are thinking of taking a drive this weekend, be sure to plan ahead and make sure to take items like extra water, as many facilities such as bathrooms and water fountains remain closed.
Here’s a list of some of the nearby parks and their available resources.
While these are popular parks not too far from the D. C. area, if you’re looking to get farther afield, use the park service’s Park Finder tool.
Shenandoah National Park
Location: Luray, Virginia
Status: Phase One, as of 8 a.m. on May 23. Most of the park is open from 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.
What’s Closed: Old Rag, Whiteoak Canyon and associated trails, trail heads and picnic areas.
