Many state parks are open for day use allowing you to get out and enjoy the outdoors. As long as you abide by common sense rules of responsible recreation, you will have the opportunity to get some exercise and see some sights.
Some locations, like Texas State Parks for example, offer the chance to purchase a day pass which can help you plan ahead to avoid the crowds. In some parks, you can buy an annual day pass if you plan to visit the park many times throughout the year to save money.
What to Expect with Only Day Use Available
State parks currently have varying rules on what is open in individual parks. Those that are open for daytime use, many have fewer staff and no volunteers hosting. Service levels are not what you would normally expect with some buildings and whole areas closed to visitors. Usually this means that those areas closed are playgrounds, visitor centers, meeting facilities and some restrooms as well as cabins and lodges for overnight camping.
Things that are open for day use are trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding, as well as many boat ramps, and some beach areas. Fishing can be done from the shores of lakes. You just need to keep a safe distance as part of responsible recreation. Rentals of bikes or boats or other recreational equipment will vary by park. Plan ahead and expect a bit different park experience than what you are used to.
Bear Lake State Park, Utah
Bear Lake has some very green-blue and sparkling waters high in the Rocky Mountains. The lake is 20 miles long and 8 miles wide, giving you plenty of space to enjoy sailing, fishing and just plain soaking up the sun. The beauty here attracted mountain men in the mid-1820s and they would use the spot to gather for the Mountain Man Rendezvous a few times. Fishing the lake means catching some whitefish, cutthroat or mackinaw. The day use beach is Rendezvous Beach on the south shore. This wide sandy beach is very popular with the beach crowd. But remember responsible recreation and keep distance between you and other beach goers.
Brantley Lake State Park, New Mexico
This lake is an oasis of wildlife, water and day use fun. At Brantley Lake State Park you can expect some fabulous boating recreation. Bring your kayak or canoe, have some binoculars for bird watching and take a day to relax and rejuvenate. There are hiking trails that will give you the chance to really move those tired muscles. Biking is an option and so is taking a break for a picnic with your loved ones. Throw a line in and see if you can catch a fish or two. You can’t eat these fish and will need to throw them back, but it’s still fun to see if you can hook a white bass, catfish, or carp. Stick around until dusk and you can experience a gorgeous sunset.
Davis Mountains State Park, Texas
Davis Mountains State Park offers wonderful opportunities to get out in the sunshine and hike, mountain bike or ride your horse. With 11 miles of trails, you’ll find one trail or more that are the right fit for you and your favorite activity. The Skyline Drive Trail is 4.5 miles of scenic mountain ridges and valleys with paved switchbacks for day hiking. You will see stone structures at historic sites and amazing views. For horseback riding, you can climb high to over 5,700 feet and check out the view from a scenic overlook. This remote park is full of beauty and tranquility.
Recommended for you: Enjoying Responsible Recreation in State Parks
Gouldsboro State Park, Pennsylvania
Gouldsboro State Park lies in northeastern Pennsylvania, with acres of open space and a 250-acre lake. Man-made Gouldsboro Lake is perfect for fishing and boating. Paddle boats, canoes and kayaks are best on this lake as there are no gas-powered boats permitted. Game fish are plentiful if you want to throw in a line. You can catch yellow perch, sunfish, catfish or pickerel. You might find some good-sized bass too. With lots of picnic areas and tables, you can take along some food when you go for the day. There is plenty of shade. Interpretive walks are always fun for the whole family. There are other trails open to biking and hiking. Bring your pets but they must be on a leash at all times.
Keyhole State Park, Wyoming
Keyhole State Park has day use fun for the outdoor enthusiast. From hiking to boating, from fishing to bird watching, there is plenty to do to make the hours pass. There is a rich history to this area, and the scenery is the icing on the cake. Bring the family for a perfect daytime getaway. For water recreation at Keyhole Reservoir, you have paddle board fun, kayaking adventure and of course fishing. Hiking will provide you with interesting natural sights and just the kind of exercise you need.
Morgan-Monroe State Forest, Indiana
Explore Morgan-Monroe State Forest on a day adventure. There are many scenic wonders consisting of rock features and three beautiful lakes; Bryant Creek Lake, Cherry Lake and Prather Lake. Canoe or paddle on the water while soaking up that warm sun. Fishing is an activity for these lakes as well. Nature trails are fun to scout, checking for any wildlife as you go. With several trails for hiking, you can get into the back-country. Some trails are 3 miles long, some 10. Take your pick and enjoy your trek.
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state's latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.