Most Texas State Parks reopened on April 20, but it’s still not business as usual.
The parks are open for day use only, and reservations must be made in advance, as no financial transactions are being conducted on-site. Visitors must purchase a pass online or by phone and print it for vehicle display or to have in one’s possession before entering a park.
Furthermore, visitors must wear face coverings and maintain a six-foot distance from those outside their visiting party. Groups of more than five people are prohibited.
In the KETR listening area, Cooper Lake State Park, Lake Tawakoni State Park, and Lake Bob Sandlin State Park have been opened. Bonham State Park, which is undergoing major renovations to its septic system, remains closed.
“As we navigate through these challenging times, it is essential that outdoor experiences and opportunities are available for Texas families," Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Director Carter Smith said.
"We have been diligently working with our partners in local communities across the state to help safeguard our state park visitors, volunteers and staff when they return to Texas State Parks,” he said.
Equipment rentals and in-person interpretive programs remain suspended. All group-use facilities, visitor and nature centers, headquarters and other enclosed spaces remain closed.
Day-use reservations can be made online at www.texasstateparks.org or by calling 512-389-8900.
Elsewhere around the region, Lake Fork remains open. The reservoir is not a state park, but is maintained by the Sabine River Authority of Texas. Boat ramps operated by the Sabine River Authority or Rains County are open to the public for free, while others are privately operated and require a fee.
