Going stir crazy? You can go to a national park for free during coronavirus pandemic

The National Park Service is suspending all park entrance fees as coronavirus spreads, NPS said Wednesday.

Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt told the National Park Service to suspend all park entrance fees until further notice, according to an NPS news release.

“This small step makes it a little easier for the American public to enjoy the outdoors in our incredible National Parks,” Bernhardt said in the news release.

Most parks remain open amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but many are “modifying operations,” according to NPS.

Outdoor spaces remain open to the public, but many facilities such as visitor centers and some tours have been shut down, according to the news release.

“The NPS urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick,” the agency said on its website.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that people who are more at risk for coronavirus be extra careful to protect themselves against the spread of COVID-19.

“Our vast public lands that are overseen by the Department offer special outdoor experiences to recreate, embrace nature and implement some social distancing,” Bernhardt said.

This story was originally published March 18, 2020 at 4:56 PM with the headline "Going stir crazy? You can go to a national park for free during coronavirus pandemic."