Hartman Creek open to visitors
Entrance fees are now waived for all Wisconsin state parks, recreation areas and trails that continue to remain open to the public.
That list includes Hartman Creek State Park near Waupaca.
Parks, law enforcement and property staff will also continue to provide routine sweeps of state park system properties.
Staying home as much as possible is the best way to lower COVID-19 infection rates, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
However, getting outdoors has physical and mental benefits.
Park and trail visitors should not congregate at restrooms, self-registration stations or electronic kiosks; should not gather in groups of 10 or more; and maintain 6 feet of distance from others.
The state Department of Natural Resources implemented the following changes March 24:
• Entrance fees are waived.
• Restrooms on state properties will remain open given there are enough resources, cleaning supplies and access to personal protective equipment for staff to maintain them.
• All state park offices, visitor centers and nonessential buildings are closed for the duration of the public health emergency. The following state buildings are also closed to the public: park headquarters, offices, visitor centers, nature centers, research stations, ranger stations, shooting ranges, fish hatcheries, shelters, showers, concessions and indoor group camp buildings.
• Properties will continue to be staffed and outdoor recreational opportunities – hiking, trails, fishing, hunting – remain open at this time.
• Boat launches at state parks remain open.
• All individual, group and indoor campsites are closed through Thursday, April 30.
• Refunds will be issued to all customers and no new reservations will be accepted until further notice.
• Wisconsin’s waters are open to anglers with a license. Normal season regulations apply.
• All current regulations apply for hunting, trapping and fishing seasons.