Get the firewood and s’mores ready.
Campgrounds within the State Parks and National Parks systems are starting to reopen to visitors, after a nearly two-month shutdown during the latest stay-at-home order that was lifted this week.
But there are some ongoing restrictions as the state still grapples with a high number of coronavirus cases in many regions. The extent of the virus’s presence here is keeping Southern California in the purple tier, the most restrictive tier of the state’s system for determining how far things can reopen.
On Thursday, Jan. 28, the State Parks system reopened some campgrounds to existing reservation holders. Several properties are using a phased approached and not all campgrounds will be made available because of pandemic concerns, wildfire damage or other issues, the state’s announcement said.
Locally, some of the most in-demand campgrounds are not yet open.
Doheny State Beach, one of the most popular campgrounds in the State Parks system, is closed not because of coronavirus, but because of an ongoing sewer repair project. It is expected to be ready for visitors by April.
The coveted Crystal Cove Cottages are opening next week, starting on Tuesday, Feb. 2.
Already at San Clemente State Park, campers started to fill in the spots through walk ups. Visitors who have reservations starting Feb. 2 can keep their plans in place.
Leo Carrillo State Beach campgrounds also started accepting walk ups this week, as did Point Magu and Malibu Creek, said Jerry West, acting district superintendent.
“It feels really good,” West said. “The public are excited to have an opportunity to stay where they are out recreating and enjoying the resources.”
The US Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region announced it has canceled the remaining closures at its national forests, including in areas of the San Bernardino, Los Padres, Cleveland, Angeles and Inyo national forests in Southern California.
The demand for the outdoors, including camping, has surged the past year as people sought ways to get away, but nearby and out of crowds. Camping is a popular option because people can stay with their own family or unit, especially if they are self contained in a recreational vehicle.
“It is important to note that the demand for camping and lodging sites sometimes exceeds the available inventory.” state officials warned. “As such, the public is advised to plan ahead, do some research and have alternate parks in mind in case the first choice is booked.”
Wearing masks, practicing physical distancing and avoiding gatherings are still important pandemic protocols, officials said.
All group campsites remain closed. Day use, outdoor areas of parks were open through the stay-at-home order and continue to be open.
Reservations for State Parks campsites can be made at reservecalifornia.com.