Imperial, California - In an effort to provide opportunities for the residents and visitors of Imperial County to stay active and healthy during this stressful and challenging time, the County of Imperial plans to reopen County Regional Parks, private and public golf courses, and other outdoor recreational areas, with limited access, throughout Imperial County. 

Beginning Saturday, April 25, 2020, many outdoor recreational areas that can be used for jogging, walking, biking and other non-contact outdoor sports will be permitted to reopen, with some restrictions and guidelines still in place in order to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19.

The decision to reopen these outdoor recreational areas was done so with the County’s health and safety in mind.  Due to the COVID-19 crisis, County parks and/or other outdoor recreational areas located throughout Imperial Valley were closed.  However, we understand that staying physically active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy.  Mental and physical health are very closely connected.  Having an open area where you can get some fresh air, relieve stress, and stay active is important for everyone at this time.  While these facilities and spaces can offer health benefits, it is important that you follow certain steps to continue to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

Follow these actions when visiting a park, trail, golf course and/or an outdoor area:

• Do not visit parks, trails, golf courses and/or outside areas if you are sick or if you were recently exposed to COVID-19.
• Stay at least six feet from others at all times. This might make some open areas, trails, and paths better to use. Do not go into a crowded area or visit crowded parks.
• Use a face covering when around others that are not within your household and a distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained. 
• Avoid gathering with others outside of your household.  Do not participate in organized activities, such as parties, or sports.
• Avoid traveling with others that are outside of your household.
• Tennis courts are allowed, if the guidelines above can be applied.
• Fishing is allowed, if applicable.
• Do not use basketball courts.
• Do not use public or communal pools, hot tubs, spas, water playgrounds/splash pads, or water parks.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Bring hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to use if soap and water are not available.
• Park restrooms, playgrounds and/or playground equipment will remain closed.

Following is a list of County Regional Parks that will reopen:

• Sunbeam Lake Park, 1750 Drew Road, Seeley, CA 92273
• Wiest Lake Park, 5351 Dietrich Road, Brawley, CA 92227
• Red Hill Park, 7581 Garst Road, Calipatria, CA 92233
• Palo Verde Park, 520 B. Ben Hulse Hwy, Palo Verde, CA 92266

For information on open golf courses or other local parks or outdoor recreational areas, please contact the owner/operator directly.  Please review the attached document, for additional guidelines and restrictions related to golf courses, state and national parks and more.

The public is encouraged to visit the Imperial County Public Health Department website at  www.icphd.org for the latest information about COVID-19 in Imperial County.  Updates may also be found on the County of Imperial Facebook page and Twitter pages - @ImperialCntyCA.