These North Cascades campgrounds, recreational areas starting to open for overnight use

Campgrounds, campsites and other recreational areas will start to reopen for overnight use on Friday, according to the North Cascades National Park Service Complex in Whatcom County.

Following recommendations and guidelines from the White House, the CDC and local state park authorities, a phased approach to opening campgrounds will start on June 12, according to the release. The Wilderness Information Center, Hozomeen Mountain, public docks and the Stehekin marina will also be opened.

All visitor centers and group campsites in Goodell, Colonial and Newhalem will remain closed while Cascade River Road will be closed until the snow is removed and damage to winter roads is repaired.

Car campgrounds are on a reservation system at recreation.gov. The remainder of the campgrounds are first-come, first-serve.

Parks and campsites have been closed since March 23 following the coronavirus pandemic but many campgrounds were opened for daytime camping last month

“We urge visitors to bring all of their own supplies, including hand sanitizer, face coverings, toilet paper, and food and beverages,” Parks Service Superintendent Karen Taylor-Goodrich said. “Once you arrive, please park only in designated areas, pack out everything you bring, and if you encounter a crowded trailhead or overlook, seek another location to recreate.”

Many trails and campsites still have to be inspected and cleared by local authorities before they are opened. Services at parks may be limited and a return to full operating capacity will be phased in.

More details and information can be found at the Park Service’s website at nps.gov/noca.