EPC Public Health issues notice of determination: Campgrounds permitted to reopen May 13

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- County health officials have issued a Notice of Determination stating that all local campgrounds, both public and private, are now permitted to reopen.

In a statement sent to KRDO Wednesday evening, El Paso County Public Health said campgrounds can reopen starting May 13 so long as they comply with Public Health Order 20-28.

That order includes but is not limited to:

• Section I.C., limiting public and private gatherings to groups of no more than ten (10);
• Section I.H., stating that playgrounds, playground equipment, picnic areas, and pools remain closed and reiterating that individual recreation may occur in groups no larger than ten (10); and
• Section II.I., which sets forth required social distancing and disease mitigation protocols for all business types.

Public Health also recommends that campgrounds review the guidance for state park campgrounds. That guidance includes:

• Camping by reservation only, at reduced campsite density.
• All facilities will be cleaned and disinfected per CDC guidelines.
• Signage to be posted in prominent locations throughout parks enforcing social distancing.
• Provide educational materials enforcing social distancing.
• Visitor centers and campground offices will be minimally staffed ensuring social distancing between employees.
• Visitor centers will be closed to the public.

Public Health is encouraging campgrounds to stay up to date with any amended state public health orders or addition guidance at https://covid19.colorado.gov/.