COVID-19: Morris Parks Update for April 2

Posted Thursday, April 2nd, 2020

Great Swamp and Pyramid Mountain Closed

The Morris County Park Commission is extending the current park/facility closures due to COVID-19 through April 12 and will offer periodic updates as the current crisis situation evolves.

The Commission today also is announcing that additional park/facility closures and access restrictions are being implemented to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Starting Friday, April 3:

• Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center parking lot, grounds and trails will be closed. Due to the nature of the trail system, with a boardwalk, narrow trails, and sensitive natural environment, it is difficult to maintain a six-foot distance between trail users.
• Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area parking lot, grounds and trails will be closed. Due to the narrow and steep trails and sensitive natural environment of the park, it is difficult to maintain a six-foot distance between trail users).
• Central Park of Morris County-Ice Pond/Disc Golf Course parking area will be closed but the trails will remain open.

While the Commission wants park patrons to be spend time outdoors, patrons must understand there are restrictions in place and social distancing is required to visit Morris County parks and trails.

To allow various parks and trails to remain open for passive recreation, patrons are asked to follow proper CDC protocol and behavior modifications, including but not limited to:

Only park in designated parking areas, do not park on roadsides.

Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.

• Understand that public restrooms are not available but some sites may have portable restrooms (please bring personal sanitary supplies for yourself).
• While on trails, warn other users of your presence, and step aside to let others pass.
• All public buildings, playgrounds, athletic fields & facilities, off-leash areas, picnic shelters/tents, golf courses are closed, and all programs, permits, and events are cancelled.
• Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.
• Continue to consult local and state health management websites, including the Morris County Office of Health Management website for information, on COVID-19.