King Salmon, AK - In response to Alaska State Mandate 18 and to support the nation’s effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Brooks Camp campground in Katmai National Park and Preserve (Katmai NP&P) will remain closed to overnight camping for the 2020 season. Recently, an increase in COVID-19 cases has been documented in several of the park’s gateway communities and health officials have asked the park to close the campground out of concern for surrounding remote Alaska communities. The park is taking this action due to health and safety concerns, as well as other operational considerations.
The Brooks Camp Developed Area (BCDA) continues to be open for day-use. The Brooks Camp Visitor Center is open daily from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Visitors should expect modified operations in the area including reduced numbers in buildings, viewing platforms, and other gathering areas to facilitate appropriate social distancing. Visitors to the BCDA are asked to follow best practices including wearing a mask or other face covering, washing hands often, maintaining at least 6 feet from other visitors and park staff. Visitors are cautioned to stay home if not feeling well.
The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount. Katmai NP&P works closely with the Office of Public Health to ensure park facilities are safe and clean and we conduct risk assessments on an ongoing basis relating to every aspect of our operations, the results of which are used to inform management decisions.
Areas immediately outside of the BCDA within Katmai NP&P remain fully accessible to the public, including for overnight camping, in accordance with the latest federal, state, and local healthy guidance. Law Enforcement and first responder services remain accessible.
The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on our website and social media channels. Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus.
www.nps.gov
Tags: covid - 19 brooks camp campground katmai national park and preserve
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
