DEEP opening eight inland swim areas and Seaside State Park Starting Tomorrow

DEEP opening eight inland swim areas and Seaside State Park

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) plans to re-open inland swimming areas at eight state parks, Seaside State Park, and the marsh boardwalk at Silver Sands State Park effective Saturday, July 18, 2020.

The eight swimming areas to re-open are: Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury; Wharton Brook State Park in Wallingford; Day Pond State Park in Colchester; Gay City State Park in Hebron; Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth; Black Rock State Park in Watertown; Hopeville Pond State Park in Griswold and Lake Waramaug State Park in Kent.

They will be open from 8:00 a.m. to sunset each day. Lifeguards will not be on duty at these locations, so it is especially important for visitors and swimmers to follow these rules and guidelines for the safety of themselves and others.

These re-openings are the result of the improved COVID-19 situation in Connecticut and based on an analysis of available space sufficient to allow recreational usage consistent with crucial social distancing practices and are contingent on visitors recreating responsibly by wearing masks, social distancing, and practicing good stewardship of state recreational areas.

“It is an encouraging step that we are able to provide more amenities and services at this time as a result of the state’s progress in reducing infection rates,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “Our continued progress toward re-opening at a safe, responsible pace relies on the public’s adherence to proven practices of wearing masks and social distancing for the well-being of everyone. Cooperation in this area will ensure we can continue to provide, and gradually increase, accessibility to our valuable outdoor recreation areas.”

The wearing of masks and face coverings remains an essential practice to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including while outdoors and at the beach. Visitors to state beaches shall maintain 15-ft between blankets and 6-ft from other visitors not in their household. Masks shall be worn anytime except when in the water or seated on your blanket and 6-ft from others not in your household. CDC guidance on safe outdoor recreation habits can be found here.

For the latest information on Connecticut State Parks and what’s open outdoors during the COVID-19 emergency, click here.

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Submitted by Hartford, CT

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