Social Distancing Deadline Extended Until April 30

In the midst of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, the Somerset County Park Commission reminds all that its general use parks and trail systems are open for park patrons to get out and enjoy some very special outdoor spaces.

Heeding the social distancing directive of President Trump issued on Sunday, March 29, 2020, the Park Commission is extending the closure of programs, events, and activities until April 30, 2020.

Remaining open with strict consideration given to the social distancing requirements are Natirar Park in Far Hills and Peapack-Gladstone, Duke Island Park and North Branch Park in Bridgewater, East County Park in Warren, Colonial Park in Somerset, and Skillman Park in Montgomery are open.  In addition, the trail systems in Washington Valley Park in Bridgewater, the Sourland Mountain Preserve in Hillsborough and Montgomery, the Environmental Education Center at Lord Stirling Park in Basking Ridge, and the Little Brook Sanctuary in Bernardsville are open. 

While parks and trails are open, there is no access to bathrooms, entry onto playgrounds has been prohibited, and buildings have been closed to the public.  Moreover, in an effort to ensure compliance with NJ Governor Murphy’s directive, the Commission encourages its patrons to follow best social distancing practices while engaging in outdoor activities including but not limited to the following: 

·       Make space for others on the trails.

·       Go solo – or with immediate family only. Follow carry-in/carry-out guidelines by cleaning up after your pet and taking any trash home with you.

·       Give yourself – and others – space. Do not gather in groups of 10 or more and maintain a six-foot distance from others at all times.

·       Go before you go. As park restrooms are closed, please use the restroom before visiting a park.

·       Stay away from playground equipment and parks facilities.

·       Follow CDC and state health recommendations. Visit cdc.gov and covid19.nj.gov for the most recent recommendations to protect yourself and others from spreading COVID-19.

Barring further governmental directives prohibiting same, the Commission will endeavor to keep its parks and trail systems open so long as doing so does not facilitate non-compliance with Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders.  Should violations occur, the Commission will have no choice but to close its parks and trails.  For this reason, the

Somerset County Park Commission strongly encourages all to heed the Governor’s social distancing directives and practice them on its parks and trails. 

Updates on cancellations and openings may be found at www.somersetcountyparks.org or by calling 908-722-1200.