BOISE, Idaho — Idaho State Parks provides people with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, in total, 30 different parks are scattered throughout the gem state, and each has its own unique characteristics.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the state parks remained open, however, they closed down their campgrounds to limit the spread of the coronavirus, but this spring, the parks saw a record number of people at their parks.
"On one hand, it has strained our resources, but on the other hand, it has shown that people have developed a renewed appreciation for getting outdoors," said Craig Quintana of the Idaho State Parks.
On Saturday, the Idaho State Parks will open their campgrounds for the first time in 2020.
"It's going to be pretty much the same as people have experienced in the past with a few critical differences," said Quintana. "We are asking people to maintain social distancing, be aware of their health and the health of others, and try to stay within your own family or household unit."
Quintana told us people could also expect limited use at the visitor centers, the restrooms and fewer hands-on interpretive programs after receiving guidance from the CDC.
Another thing people need to know about is the park's new online method to obtain passes, create reservations, get their off-road vehicle permits and invasive species stickers for boats.
"It's a new system, so people are getting acquainted with it," said Quintana. "We are still working a few kinks out on our own, but online is the best option."
Quintana told us people should create and use an account that will help keep the server running smoothly, but it will also give customers instant access to their pass while they wait on the official one the Idaho Parks mails out.
