Recreate Responsibly

Tips to Recreate Responsibly in National Parks

Whether seeking wide-open spaces or exploring a historic urban neighborhood, remember to #RecreateResponsibly! We encourage you to follow the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and follow Leave No Trace principles when you visit.

• Know before you go. Visit NPS.gov/findapark for current park conditions and availability of restrooms and other facilities. Make a plan, follow the 10 Essentials, and if you are sick, stay home.

• Keep it close. Follow the state and county orders governing the open status of the area you’re considering visiting. The National Park Service is working closely with governors and state and local health departments as we increase access and services across the National Park System.

• Keep your distance. Recreate with the people in your household. Give others plenty of room whether you are on a trail, at a boat launch, or in a parking lot. Follow the CDC’s social distancing guidelines for staying six feet away from others. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth if you’re near others.

• Know your limits. Consider postponing challenging hikes or trying new activities while first responders, parks, and communities continue to concentrate on responding to the pandemic.

• Keep it with you. If you brought it, take it with you. Trash pickup and restroom facilities will continue to be limited in many park areas.

• Keep it inclusive. Be an active part of making our nation’s parks and public lands safe and welcoming for all identities and abilities.
• Park only in designated areas.
• Stay on marked trails.
• Most importantly, please stay home if you feel sick.

Ideas to #RecreateResponsibly in the MNRR

• Biking - Missouri National Recreational River works in partnership with a variety of agencies and organizations at the federal, state and local levels that offer a multitude biking possibilities.
• Birding - The Missouri River ecosystem is a significant pathway for migratory birds.
• Boating - The Missouri National Recreational River offers scenic views and a variety of river opportunities for all boaters. The Missouri River Outdoor Recreation Access Guide shows public access sites for fishing, hunting, boating, and river access on the Nebraska side.
• Camping - Missouri National Recreational River offers primitive, Leave-No-Trace camping available at Bow Creek, Green Island, and Goat Island Recreation Areas. Remember to leave no trace.
• Canoeing - Explore the river by canoe and paddle the water trail.
• Fishing - Catfish, walleye, sauger, paddlefish, and many more game species await your angling skills along the two reaches of the Missouri River, 20 miles of the lower Niobrara River, and 8 miles of the lower Verdigre Creek.
• Hiking - Lace up your hiking shoes and find a new trail. Make sure to keep your distance from others on the trail.
• Kayaking - Explore the river by kayak and paddle the water trail.
• Nature Walk - The MNRR and partner sites have many natural areas that offer a leisurely stroll around the river and backwaters. Be sure to take your time and read the signs about the flora and fauna of the area.
• Picnicing - Dining in and around the park offers many options, or you can opt to eat surrounded by nature at the park's picnic areas. If you go to the park, make sure you take everything back with you. PS don’t share your food with wildlife!
• Running - Jogging, running, or fast walking is accessible to a lot of people; all you really need is some good shoes and you’re off to the races.
• Scenic Drive - Keep yourself safe in your vehicle while you take in the scenic vistas.
• View Wildlife - Watching animals in their native habitat can be both thrilling and calming. Check out these pro tips for Watching Wildlife.

 

Social Distancing Tips

NPS/ Matt Turner

Resources to Help You Recreate Responsibly

Social Distancing in Your Park

The health and safety of those who visit and work in national parks continues to be paramount, which is why we need you to be our partner in adopting social distancing practices. The CDC has offered guidance to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases while enjoying the outdoors.

Park rangers remain on duty to protect visitors and resources and uphold normal regulations. When recreating, please Recreate Responsibly, practice Leave No Trace principles and avoid crowding and high-risk outdoor activities. Be prepared for limited access to services.

Be sure to park only in designated areas, pack out everything you bring, plan to visit at times other than busiest times of the day or week, maintain social distance from others, and if you encounter a crowded trailhead or overlook, seek another location to recreate.  

We are also encouraging you to find your virtual park! Explore national parks from the comfort of anywhere in the world through online galleries of photos, videos, webcams, podcasts, and sound recordings. Be sure to check out the MNRR Virtual Experience page!

 

Text Alternative for Social Distancing Infographic

Infographic with text reading "Social Distancing. Observe widlife rules . . . but with people!" First example is a water faucet with water running and a hand reading "Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds." The second example is of a house and reads "Stay home when sick." Third example is of two hikers reading "Avoid close contact with those that are sick." Fourth example is of a tissue and tissue box reading "When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue." Fifth example is of a face and a hand reading "Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands." Sixth example is of a bear and a person pushing another person reading "Still don't use slower friends as bear bait."