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Safety is Our Priority

The County is working to protect the public's health in the face of COVID-19 by taking actions to help slow the spread of the virus. Parks and preserves remain open, though some on-site amenities have been closed for your protection.


We work every day to support a healthy, safe and thriving San Diego community and safety remains a top priority. For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

 DATE UPDATE
7/27/21 County of San Diego Mask Guidance: The rate of COVID-19 cases in San Diego County is rated “high” by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New research reveals the Delta variant is much more transmissible and expected to lead to a growing number of cases in vaccinated individuals while primarily striking the unvaccinated. The County will follow the latest CDC guidance in recommending the universal wearing of masks by both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals in indoor public settings. 
6/9/21

On June 9, the County of San Diego will be entering the Yellow Tier, which further expands recreation opportunities. All parks, preserves and campgrounds remain open. Here’s how the Yellow Tier changes affect other park properties: 

  • Community Centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley will reopen at 50% capacity for fitness classes, and recommended 50% capacity for religious services.
  • Spring Valley Gym will reopen at 50% capacity for open play (individual households, only) and league activities.
  • The nature centers at San Elijo, Santa Ysabel and Sycamore Canyon will reopen at 100% capacity.
  • The historic adobes at Los Peñasquitos and Rancho Guajome, will reopen at 100% capacity.
  • Temple Beth Israel will reopen at 100% capacity.

Yellow Tier updates also change group reservations and events:

  • Informal outdoor gatherings will be permitted with a maximum of 100 people.
  • Private outdoor events will reopen with a maximum capacity of 200 people. If all guests are tested or show proof of full vaccination, that maximum increases to 400 people.
  • Informal indoor gatherings will be permitted with a maximum of 50% capacity, or a maximum of 50 people (whichever is fewer).
  • Private indoor events will reopen with a maximum capacity of 200 people – only if all guests are tested or show proof of full vaccination.
  • Vaccine Verification/Negative Testing will be required for indoor mega events (over 5,000 participants) and recommend for outdoor mega events (over 10,000 participants), which will be the responsibility of the event organizer and will be included in their reservation/rental agreement. Indoor activities including private rentals will require face coverings for individuals not vaccinated, which will be the responsibility of the event organizer and included in the reservation/rental agreement.
5/6/21 Per recent health orders issued by the State of California, our campgrounds are now fully open, including all group camping areas. Restrictions may apply based on group size; please contact the Reservations Center at  (877) 565-3600 for more information.
4/8/21

Per the State of California, San Diego is now in the Orange Tier, which allows heightened capacity in museums and nature centers (up to 50% from 25%) – this change goes into effect immediately at Rancho Guajome Adobe, Rancho Los Penasquitos Adobe, Santa Ysabel Nature Center, San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center, and Temple Beth Israel.  

Additionally, the community centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley are now open at 25% capacity (from 10%) – along with the Spring Valley Gym.

The outdoor pools at Agua Caliente County Park are open with a reduced capacity to ensure social distancing requirements are met. The indoor pool remains closed.

Campgrounds remain open; reservations can be made here.

All County parks and preserves remain open – check out our Find a Park page to pick a destination near you.   

To inquire about a special event, please contact our Reservations Center between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday at 877-565-3600.

Social distancing mandates remain in place. Masks required. Please obey posted signs for your safety and ours.

3/17/21

On Wednesday, March 17, and per public health guidelines, the state lifted some COVID-19 restrictions, moving from the most restrictive Purple Tier into the less restrictive Red Tier. This change in tiers allows us to reopen community centers, nature centers, adobes and gyms with capacity limits. Below are updates.

  • The Community Centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley reopened at 10 percent capacity for fitness classes and 25 percent capacity for religious services.
  • Spring Valley Gym reopened at 10 percent capacity for open play (households only) and leagues.   
  • The Nature Centers at San Elijo, Santa Ysabel and Sycamore Canyon are open at 25 percent capacity.
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe and Rancho los Penasquitos Adobe are open at 25 percent capacity. 
  • Temple Beth Israel is open at 25 percent capacity.
  • The outdoor pools at Agua Caliente remain open at 10 percent capacity; the indoor pool is still closed.
  • Youth and Adult Sports – outdoors:
    • Low-to-moderate contact sports league game play allowed
    • High contact sports league game play allowed with modifications
    • No spectators for adult sports
    • Only household spectators for youth sports 
  • Youth and Adult Sports – indoors:
    • League game play, practice and training allowed at 10 percent capacity
    • No spectators for adult sports
    • Only household spectators for youth sports 

Gatherings are still limited to a maximum of three households. All guests will be asked to follow social distancing and face covering guidelines. Signs are posted for your convenience.

Learn more on the County’s Coronavirus website.    

2/12/21

Per the most recent Public Health Order, places of worship are now allowed to operate indoors at 25% at capacity with singing and chanting prohibited during services to limit the likelihood of spreading COVID-19. Outdoor spaces intended to gatherings and group functions including pavilions, communal fire rings and amphitheaters remain closed.  

Regarding adult sports, low-contact sports, like cross country running and track and field activities, are allowed. High-contact sports like basketball and football are not yet allowed. Additional information can be found HERE.

Campgrounds remain open with new guidelines in place, including heightened sanitation protocol and the request for all guests to maintain 6 feet of social distance from other park guests, and to wear masks in central areas. The maximum capacity for overnight stay in each campsite varies by campground and site, however, sites can only be booked by one household unit; guests may congregate with up to three households for no more than 2 hours at a campground, but the families cannot share a single reservation. This is in accordance with public health guidelines.

1/26/21 

On Jan. 25, the State of California lifted the regional stay-at-home orders, moving San Diego County back into the Purple Tier. This shift allows us to reopen our campgrounds on Jan. 26  – with safety measures to comply with public health guidelines.

Tent, RV and cabin camping reservations can be booked here. You can also call our Reservation Team at (858) 565-3600 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, however, call volume is extremely high, and you will experience a delay reaching an agent.

NOTE: Campsite occupancy limits apply; gatherings are limited to a maximum of three household units. Some features at campgrounds remain closed, like the indoor pool at Agua Caliente County Park. View this list of what’s open and closed and obey posted signs.  

Parks and preserves remain open, though gyms, community centers and nature centers are closed. When you visit an outdoor space, maintain your social distance and bring a mask and wear it if you are within 6 feet of other park users.

For more information about the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com. To learn more about the State of California’s public health order, visit covid19.ca.gov

1/12/21

On Jan. 11, and due to public health orders, we extended the campground closure through the month of January. Customers are being notified and refunds are being processed. Please check back for updates on when campgrounds may reopen. 

For more information about the novel coronavirus and current status, visit coronavirus-sd.com.  

12/22/20

On Dec. 5, 2020, we took actions to close campgrounds and cancel special event reservations for 3 weeks, in accordance with public health orders. The end of that term would be Dec. 27, however, we remain under the regional stay at home order as defined by the State of California, and we have extended those cancelations through Jan. 17, 2021 and could be extended longer. Customers are being notified.

Parks and preserves remain open, though some on-site amenities have been closed for your protection.

Please maintain social distancing and wear a mask whenever you are in close contact with other park guests. Limit gatherings to one household unit.   

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. For more information about the novel coronavirus and current status, visit coronavirus-sd.com.   

12/9/2020

Beginning today, playgrounds have reopened at all County park. Exercise stations have also reopened. 

As a reminder, please maintain a safe social distance of at least 6 feet from other park visitors. Bring and wear a mask if you come in close contact, for your safety and theirs. All group outings are limited to one household unit.

This graphic explains what’s currently open and closed, at a high level.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. For more information about the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com

12/5/2020

State and local public health officials instituted new guidelines to combat the spread of COVID-19. In accordance with these guidelines, and in an effort to protect our staff and customers, the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will be temporarily closing all of its campgrounds and canceling all camping and day-use reservations this Sunday, Dec. 6 (at 12:59 p.m.), through at least Dec. 27, 2020.

Additional changes to park operations:

  • Campgrounds open for day-use only; no overnight stays
  • Playgrounds closed
  • Fitness stations closed
  • Outlings limited to single households

Parks and preserves remain open with these guidelines in place. Most on-site amenities also remain open. Community centers, gyms, teen centers and nature centers remain closed. Please obey posted signs.

As a reminder, please maintain a safe social distance of at least 6 feet from other park visitors. Bring and wear a mask if you come in close contact, for your safety and theirs. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. For more information about the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

11/20/2020 Based on the most recent COVID-19 information, our parks and preserves remain open, along with campgrounds. However, public health recommendations remain in place, for your safety and ours. Please maintain social distancing, and wear a mask when you come within 6 feet of contacting other park visitors. Groups are limited to three households. Campground quiet hours remain from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. 
11/20/20 Based on the most recent COVID-19 information, our parks and preserves remain open, along with campgrounds. However, public health recommendations remain in place, for your safety and ours. Please maintain social distancing, and wear a mask when you come within 6 feet of contacting other park visitors. Groups are limited to three households. Campground quiet hours remain from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. View the full list of parks and open/closed amenities here
10/12/20

Per recent changes to public health guidelines issued by the State of California, household gatherings - which were previously limited to one family unit - have now been expanded to three family units. This includes everyone present, including hosts and all guests. This change in guidelines is for outside gatherings only. Mingling with members of other gatherings is not allowed. Learn more.

Reservations for some group areas within County parks have now opened; book a site via our online reservation system.

9/30/20 

On Wednesday, Sept. 30, playgrounds in County Parks opened, with new guidelines in place for your safety and the safety of park staff. Capacity limitations for both play areas and play structures have been posted - please obey all posted signs.

While visiting a playground, please honor social distancing, wear a mask (and make sure all children over the age of 2 have masks on while playing), wash hands before and after touching play equipment, and if you're sick, stay home.

9/18/20

Friendly reminder, parks and preserves remain open though some amenities have been closed due to current Public Health OrdersPlease obey posted signs.

  • The Front Desk is accepting phone calls 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and emails at AskParks.Lue@sdcounty.ca.gov . Walk-ins are not available at this time.
  • While sports fields and courts are open, activities are limited to solo activities, youth camps and games played between members of the same household unit. Adult leagues are not allowed at this time.  
  • Please continue to practice social distancing, and bring a mask with you to wear if you come in close contact of park users.
8/30/20

On Friday, Aug. 28, the County released new information regarding the Public Heath Order and related state guidelines. View https://covid19.ca.gov/ for more information. 

Here is how these changes impact County of San Diego Parks and Recreation properties and services:  

  • Parks and preserves remain open with sanitation and safe social distancing protocols in place. Please obey posted signage.
  • Day camps will continue to operate with sanitation and safe social distancing protocols in place.  
  • Our Nature Centers at San Elijo Lagoon, Sycamore Canyon/Goodan Ranch and Santa Ysabel will reopen Aug. 31 to visitors at 25% capacity.
  • Rancho Penasquitos Adobe and Rancho Guajome Adobe – along with Temple Beth Israel – will reopen Aug. 31 to visitors at 25% capacity.
  • Indoor weddings, funerals and other religious services will be permitted beginning Aug. 31 at 25% capacity, or 100 people, whatever is less. Receptions and social gatherings are not yet permitted.
  • Our Community Centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley will reopen Aug. 31 at 10% capacity for indoor fitness and dance classes. We’re updating our program listings; please check back for updates.
  • The Spring Valley Gym will soon reopen at 10% capacity.
  • Agua Caliente campground is scheduled to open Sept. 4. Outdoor pools will be open with limited capacity and social distancing requirements. Indoor pools will remain closed.
  • Group camping is not yet permitted; restrictions remain in place that limit each campsite to a maximum of 8 people – all part of the same household unit.  
  • Playgrounds remain closed.
  • Indoor and outdoor festivals and concerts remain canceled.

Our Headquarters remains closed; staff will continue to check email and phone lines, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have a question, send an email to Askparks.Lue@sdcountyca.gov, or call 858-565-3600.

8/5/20 

Per the most recent Public Health Order, outdoor religious services and cultural ceremonial activities may be conducted, provided all persons practice social distancing. Outdoor fitness classes and camps are also permitted. County parks that are available for these types of services and activities - pending availability, permits and compliance with public health guidelines - are listed below. 

Permits must be applied for in advance via our Reservation Team. They can be reached Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at 858-565-3600.  

Permit fees are waived under this order, for qualifying organiztions, but permits are still required in all reservable areas, regardless of the size of the group. The number of permits available for each park depends on the total available spaces. Permits can be granted for a single event, or for a longer time period (up to 3 months).

Permit Qualifications:

  • Activities must fall within the categories of religious services and ceremonies or fitness organizations
  • Applicants must be affiliated with a “brick and mortar” location that has been closed due to the current Public Health Order
  • Provide an EIN or Tax ID Number
  • Provide insurance naming the County of San Diego as an additional insured
  • Provide a copy of their Safe Reopening Plan

NOTE: Permits will expire as soon as the Public Health Order allows these organizations to resume indoor operations. At that point, the group or organization can continue to operate outdoors if they pay the regular fees associated with that site and location.

Parks that allow permits, per the Public Health Order:   

  • 4S Ranch Community Park
  • Borrego Springs County Park
  • Collier County Park
  • Dos Picos County Park
  • El Monte County Park
  • Felicita County Park
  • Flinn Springs County Park
  • Guajome Regional Park
  • Heritage Couty Park
  • Hilton Head County Park
  • Horse Creek Ridge County Park
  • Lake Morena County Park
  • Lindo Lake County Park
  • Live Oak County Park
  • Loius Stelzer County Park
  • Old Ironsides County Park
  • Otay Lakes County Park
  • Pine Valley County Park
  • Potrero County Park
  • Provence House
  • Rainbow County Park
  • San Dieguito County Park
  • Spring Valley County Park
  • Steele Canyon County Park
  • Sweetwater Summit
  • Waterfront Park
  • William Heise County Park
7/6/20

Due to the most recent public health order, we will be closing several indoor facilities beginning Tuesday, July 7. These include:

  • Los Penasquitos Ranch House
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe
  • San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center
  • Santa Ysabel Nature Center
  • Sycamore Canyon/Goodan Ranch Nature Center
  • Temple Beth Israel

County park facilities that will stay open include those that serve as cool zones (community centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley) and Spring Valley Gymnasium, with updates to operations for your safety and ours.

County-managed parks, preserves and parking lots remain open, along with trails, picnic areas and on-site restrooms. View this comprehensive list  of County properties to see what's open and closed before you visit. Thank you for your cooperation. 

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

6/22/20

Recent public health orders have made it possible to reopen wedding facilities for ceremonies, only. These facilities will be operating at reduced capacity, with new guidelines in place to ensure the safety of all guests and park staff.

To inquire about a space, call or leave a message with our Reservation Team at 858-565-3600. Staff will be able to share information regarding what is open, when, and how many guests can be present at a given time. Please remember: 

  • Receptions are not allowed nor are meetups or park gatherings of any size.
  • Masks are required; guests are expected to wear masks indoors, and when they come within 6 feet of another guest.   
6/11/20

Beginning Friday, June 12, the County will reopen the following amenities, which have been closed due to recommendations by Public Health Officials in the wake of COVID-19.

Opening 6/12/20:

  • Waterfront Park Fountains
  • Gymnasiums
  • Nature Centers
  • Historic Adobes

Leagues sports can be played by youth but not for adults; please check back for updates.

Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley Community Centers will temporarily reopen as County Cool Zones, with restrictions in place for your safety and ours.  

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at  coronavirus-sd.com .  

6/10/20

Public Health Officials have relaxed restrictions on County campgrounds. This means, beginning Friday, June 12, nearly all of our campsites that were previously closed due to COVID-19 will now be open – including cabins. 

Book a new reservation.

Additional information can be found in this article and this FAQ page.

Thank you for your support as we continue to adjust park operations to meet safety guidelines. 

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at  coronavirus-sd.com .  

6/9/20

Beginning Tuesday, June 9, Sweetwater Bike Park will reopen to the public. Details:

  • The park will be open 7 days a week, from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 
  • 50 guests will be admitted to the park per 2-hour timeslot
  • Timeslots: 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., 12 - 2 p.m., 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., 5 - 7 p.m.   
  • Reservations are not needed; guests should check in with a ranger or volunteer when they arrive 
  • The parking lot and the portable restroom are open
  • Guests should bring face masks and maintain safe social distancing
  • Guests should not visit if they are sick or are showing symptoms of COVID-19
  • No groups or meet-ups
  • All other rules apply - please obey posted signs

Opened this year, Sweetwater Bike Park is a free, family-friendly bike skills park located in Bonita, and it's the only park of its kind in San Diego County. 

County-managed parks, preserves and parking lots remain open, though some on-site amenities may be closed. Signs are posted.  View this comprehensive list of County properties to see what's open and closed before you visit.  

6/5/20

Beginning Saturday, June 6, the skate parks at Lindo Lake County Park and Jess Martin County Park will reopen to the public. Guests are reminded to stay home if they're sick, avoid groups and gatherings, and to wear masks if they come within 6 feet of other park users. 

County-managed parks, preserves and parking lots remain open, along with trails and some picnic areas and dog parks. Campground are open at half-capacity. View this comprehensive list of County properties to see what's open and closed before you visit.  

5/28/20

In accordance with public health orders, we have relaxed some park restrictions:

  • Parking lots that were previously open at 50% are now open at 100%
  • Staging areas at Barnett Ranch, Holly Oaks, Simon and Mt. Gower Preserves are now open

Additional reopenings remain in effect - as well as any closures that have not yet been lifted (details below). You can also view the full list of parks and amenities to see what's open and closed near you.

Social distancing mandates remain in place. Please stay home if you are sick, and bring a mask if you head out, to wear if you come within 6 feet of another park user.  

We realize this is a confusing situation and we apologize for the frequent changes to park operations. We are moving in the right direction, and look forward to hosting you at full capacity soon. 

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.  

5/23/20

With campgrounds now open at half capacity, we’ve updated our reservation system to only show sites that are open and available. About 50 percent of our sites have been closed in accordance with public health orders, including group areas and cabins. This is a temporary measure but one that is essential, for your safety and ours, as we navigate operations during COVID-19.

  • If you would like to make a reservation, you may do so online. Sites are now open through the end of the year.
  • If you already have a reservation, and your site has been temporarily closed, you will receive an email with options to wait-and-see, transfer or cancel. Wait-and-see means we are evaluating the situation daily and may still be able to honor those reservations if public health orders are lifted before the date of the reservation.

Additional details can be found on our Camping FAQ page.

5/20/20

In accordance with recent public health orders, we are continuing to relax restrictions at our parks and preserves. The following amenities are now open (unless otherwise posted; please obey all signs for your safety, and ours).

Now open: 

  • Picnic tables (unless otherwise posted)
  • Park benches (unless otherwise posted)
  • Lamar Off-leash Dog Park
  • Borrego Springs Off-leash Dog Park

This is in addition to our campgrounds (now operating at half capacity), the boat dock and boat rentals at Lake Morena, and all of our parks and preserves (except indoor spaces like museums, nature centers and community and teen centers).

Social distancing mandates remain in place. When you leave your place, cover your face if you come within 6 feet of another park user.

View the updated list of parks with information on what is open and closed.

5/18/20 Beginning today, May 18, fishing from shore will be allowed at County lakes and ponds, to include Lake Morena, Lindo Lake, Luelf Pond, and the ponds at Dos Picos County Park and Guajome Regional Park. This is in addition to fishing by boat or kayak, where applicable. Social distancing mandates remain in place, per the most recent public health order. Please obey posted signs for your safety and ours.  
5/15/20

With campgrounds effectively operating at half capacity, we are now accepting reservations through the month of June, with new guidelines and safety protocols in place to comply with public health orders. Reservations must be booked online or in person.  Learn more and visit our FAQ page.

View the maps below to see which campsites are open, pending availability:

5/8/20

San Diego County officials announced the gradual reopening of County campgrounds. We will be opening at 50 percent capacity—to tent and RV campers—with new guidelines in place to comply with public health orders related to COVID-19. Learn more.

All other closures (listed below) remain in effect, except for: 

  • Campgrounds which are now open at limited capacity
  • The boat dock at Lake Morena which is now open along with a limited number of boat rentals; fishing from shore is still not allowed 

View the updated list of parks with information on what is open and closed.

5/4/20 

Most County parks and preserves remain open to foot, bike and horse traffic. Trails are open, and we've begun a phased reopening of some park activities and offerings, to include picnics and parking, per the most recent Public Health Order. 

This comprehensive park list contains properties that are managed by the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation, with their current status as open or closed followed by the status of on-site amenities. It is being updated weekly; check back for updates.

As a reminder, the following properties and amenities are closed until further notice. We look forward to hosting guests at full capacity as soon as it is safe to do so. 

Closed:  

  • Annie’s Canyon Trail at San Elijo Lagoon
  • Clemmens Lane County Park
  • Palomar Mountain County Park
  • Santa Margarita County Preserve
  • Front Desk Services at DPR Headquarters and 4S Ranch (phone lines open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday, 858-565-3600)
  • Campgrounds: Agua Caliente, Dos Picos, Guajome, Lake Morena, Potrero, Sweetwater Vallecito and William Heise County Parks
  • Community Centers: Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Teen Centers: Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Spring Valley Gymnasium
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe and the Ranch House at Los Penasquitos
  • Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park
  • Nature Centers: Goodan Ranch, San Elijo and Santa Ysabel
  • Off-Leash Dog Areas: Borrego Springs, Lamar and Live Oak County Parks
  • Bike Skills Course at Sweetwater Regional Park
  • Skate Parks at Lindo Lake and Jess Martin County Parks
  • All outdoor fitness stations, play structures and splash pads
  • All large reservable spaces within parks, to include pavilions, gazebos and group picnic areas 
  • Fountains at Waterfront Park    

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

4/30/20

Per the most recent Public Health Order, beginning May 1, each public park and recreation area shall operate in compliance with new social distancing protocol. The public shall not congregate or participate in active sport activities at a park with the exception of members of a single family or household if authorized pursuant to the protocol applicable to the park. Any park at which the Protocol requirements cannot be effectively implemented shall close.

PARKING: Beginning May 1, parking lots at most County-managed parks and preserves will open at 50 percent capacity. A few lots will remain closed; please obey posted signs.

PICNICKING: Beginning May 1, individuals and members of a single family/household will be allowed to picnic in open grass areas of parks, if they practice social distancing from other park guests. NOTE: Tables and BBQs remain closed (personal BBQs are permitted; please check with park staff upon arrival). Please obey posted signs.

BOATING/FISHING: Beginning May 1, recreational boating will be allowed for individuals and members of a single family/household, only. Lake Morena will open to personal watercraft, but rentals will remain closed. Fishing will be allowed from a boat or kayak – but not from the shoreline.

SPORTS: Beginning May 1, sports courts (basketball, tennis, pickleball and volleyball) will open to individuals and members of a single family/household. Organized sports will also be allowed on sports fields, as long as participants are part of the same family/household. NOTE: Lindo Lake and Jess Martin Skate Parks and Sweetwater Bike Park remain closed. Outdoor fitness equipment is also closed.  

RESERVATIONS: Camping and event reservations have been canceled through the month of May. Reservation holders will receive an email with more information, followed by a full refund. Ranger-led activities, and those coordinated through our community centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley, are canceled until further notice.  

All other closures and guidelines, listed below, remain in effect.   

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com

4/27/20

Beginning May 1, the County hopes to relax restrictions for parks where social distancing can be maintained. New social distancing protocol templates have been created for parks in anticipation of a phased reopening. Additionally, as of May 1, everyone must wear face coverings if they are in public and  if they come within 6 feet of another person. NOTE: Masks are not required for all recreational activities where social distancing can be maintained (e.g. hiking, surfing and cycling) but should be carried as a precaution. 

Read the County's latest Public Health Order, issued 4/26/20, which contains a more detailed list of updates. For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status – and how it affects other (non-recreational) County properties and businesses – visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com

Parks and preserves will remain open to foot, bike and horse traffic (where applicable), but not vehicles. We would like to remind all guests that if they cannot walk or ride a bike or horse to a park, they should not go.

PERMITTED: Passive recreation; you may walk, run or ride a bike or horse along trails in our open parks and preserves – but keep moving.

NOT PERMITTED: Active recreation like basketball, soccer, roller hockey, tennis, pickleball and other sports – in addition to stationary activities that keep you in a single area like fishing, yoga, picnicking and reading under a tree. 

The following sites and amenities remain closed:

  • Annie’s Canyon Trail at San Elijo Lagoon
  • Clemmens Lane County Park
  • Palomar Mountain County Park
  • Santa Margarita County Preserve (Wildlands Conservancy side only; County trails remain open to local traffic)
  • Front Desk Services at DPR Headquarters and 4S Ranch (phone lines open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday, 858-565-3600)
  • Campgrounds at Agua Caliente, Dos Picos, Potrero, Vallecito and William Heise County Parks (those already on site at Guajome, Lake Morena and Sweetwater Summit may stay through the end of their reservation)
  • Community Centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Teen Centers in Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Spring Valley Gymnasium
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe and the Ranch House at Los Penasquitos
  • Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park
  • Nature Centers at Goodan Ranch, San Elijo and Santa Ysabel
  • Off-Leash Dog Areas at Borrego Springs, Lamar and Live Oak County Parks
  • Bike Skills Course at Sweetwater Regional Park
  • Skate Parks at Lindo Lake and Jess Martin County Parks
  • Boating and fishing in all County-managed ponds and lakes  
  • All outdoor fitness stations, play structures and splash pads
  • All ballfields and sports courts (and all organized sports)
  • All large reservable spaces within parks, to include pavilions, gazebos and group picnic areas 
  • Fountains at Waterfront Park
4/8/20 

Per the most recent Public Health Order, Section 12: "All public parks and recreation areas, including public beaches, must comply with section 10 (Social Distancing and Sanitation Protocol). Parking lots at such facilities shall be closed, and all such facilities shall be accessible only from members of the public who reside within walking distance of the facility. Said facilities shall be used solely for walking, hiking, equestrian and bicycle riding. The public shall not congregate or participate in active sport activities at said facilities. Swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, boating for recreational purposes, and all other water recreational activities, are prohibited on or in public waterways and at beaches. All public parks and recreation areas, including public beaches, where social distancing requirements cannot be effectively implemented shall close. The forgoing does not prohibit public employees from engaging in safety or maintenance activities at these facilities."      

All other guidelines, cancelations and closures (listed below) remain in effect, with the addition of drinking fountains.

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com

4/3/20

Beginning today, all parking lots and staging areas at County parks and preserves will be closed, along with all ballfields and sports courts. This is in accordance with the most recent Public Health Order, which states public parks and recreation areas shall only be accessible to members to the public who live within walking distance; that facilities shall be used solely for walking, hiking, equestrian and bike riding; and that the public shall not congregate or participate in active sport activities.   

Parks and preserves will remain open to foot, bike and horse traffic, but not vehicles. We would like to remind all guests that if they cannot walk or ride a bike or horse to a park, they should not go. Staff will be on site to enforce this updated policy, in conjunction with local law enforcement.    

PERMITTED: Passive recreation; you may walk, run or ride a bike or horse along trails in our open parks and preserves – but keep moving.

NOT PERMITTED: Active sport activities like basketball, soccer, roller hockey, tennis, pickleball and other sports and stationary activities that keep you in a single area like fishing, yoga, picnicking and reading under a tree. 

These changes join a number of other updates to park operations. The following amenities remain closed:

  • Annie’s Canyon Trail at San Elijo Lagoon
  • Clemmens Lane County Park
  • Los Penasquitos Canyon (City side only; County trails and grounds remain open to local traffic)
  • Santa Margarita County Preserve (Wildlands Conservancy side only; County trails remain open to local traffic)
  • Front Desk Services at DPR Headquarters and 4S Ranch (phone lines open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday, 858-565-3600)
  • Campgrounds at Agua Caliente, Dos Picos, Potrero, Vallecito and William Heise County Parks (those already on site at Guajome, Lake Morena and Sweetwater Summit may stay through the end of their reservation)
  • Community Centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Teen Centers in Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Spring Valley Gymnasium
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe and the Ranch House at Los Penasquitos
  • Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park
  • Nature Centers at Goodan Ranch, San Elijo and Santa Ysabel
  • Off-Leash Dog Areas at Borrego Springs, Lamar and Live Oak County Parks
  • Bike Skills Course at Sweetwater Regional Park
  • Skate Parks at Lindo Lake and Jess Martin County Parks
  • Boating and fishing in all County-managed ponds and lakes  
  • All outdoor fitness stations and play structures
  • All ballfields and sports courts (and all organized sports)
  • All large reservable spaces within parks, to include pavilions, gazebos and group picnic areas 

Camping reservations and privately booked events along with all leagues, classes and ranger-led programs have been canceled through April and until further notice. 

Please check back for updates. For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at  coronavirus-sd.com .

3/30/20

In light of the County’s Public Health Order extension, all staff-led activities and private events in County parks and preserves that were scheduled to take place in the month of April have been canceled. Reservation-holders will receive full refunds (see first post for 3/30/20, below, for details). 

As of close-of-business day on March 30, all County parks and preserves remain open, with the exception of:

  • Annie's Canyon Trail at San Elijo Lagoon
  • Clemmens Lane County Park
  • Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve (staging area only; trails, garden and outside ranch are open)
  • Santa Margarita County Preserve (staging area only) 

To view locations, visit the "Find a Park" tab on this site and search alphabetically or by map. Please check back for updates.

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com .

3/30/20

In light of the County’s Public Health Order extension, all camping reservations scheduled to take place during the month of April have been canceled, and all reservation holders will receive a full refund.   

Reservation holders will receive an email notice of cancelation. To receive a refund, they will need to respond to the email to confirm receipt, including their name and day-time phone number. A reservation team member will follow up to process the refund. NOTE: It may take up to 2 weeks for the refund to show up in your account. 

San Diego County public health officials have issued stay-at-home orders to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease, or COVID-19.  A statewide order issued March 19 expanded on parts of the local order. On March 28, the County extended its order so that it remains in effect until further notice. In accordance with this, and in an effort to protect our staff and customers in the wake of the coronavirus, the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will be temporarily closing all of its campgrounds and canceling all camping and day-use reservations through April 30. 

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this challenging time. For more information about DPR’s response to COVID-19, visit sdparks.org.  

For more information about the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

3/28/20

All closures and program cancelations (listed below) are now in effect until further notice, per an  extended emergency order issued by the County of San Diego.

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com .

3/25/20

County parks and preserves remain open, with the exception of Annie's Canyon Trail at San Elijo Lagoon, and Clemmens Lane. All other closures and cancelations remain in place. Please check back for updates.

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at  coronavirus-sd.com .

3/24/20

County parks and preserves remain open, with the exception of Clemmens Lane. All other closures and cancelations remain in place. Please check back for updates.

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com .

 3/19/20

We are committed to supporting staff and customers through the challenging COVID-19 pandemic situation by taking precautionary measures to reduce large numbers of customers and staff gathering in confined spaces. As such, we have made the decision to temporarily close the following park facilities as of Friday, 3/20:

  • Front Desk Services at DPR Headquarters (phone lines open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday, 858-565-3600)
  • Campgrounds at Agua Caliente, Dos Picos Guajome, Lake Morena, Potrero, Sweetwater Summit, Vallecito, William Heise County Parks (those already on site may stay through the end of their reservation)
  • Off-Leash Dog Areas at Borrego Springs, Lamar and Live Oak County Parks
  • Bike Skills Course at Sweetwater Regional
  • Skate Parks at Lindo Lake and Jess Martin County Parks
  • All outdoor fitness stations and play structures
  • All large reservable spaces within parks, to include pavilions, gazebos and group picnic areas

The following remain closed and/or canceled:

  • Community Centers in Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Teen Centers in Lakeside and Spring Valley
  • Spring Valley Gymnasium
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe and the Ranch House at Los Penasquitos
  • Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park
  • Nature Centers at Goodan Ranch, San Elijo and Santa Ysabel
  • Privately booked events + leagues, classes and ranger-led programs through March

Parks offer sunlight, solace and a break from social isolation. For this reason, gates will remain open at all other County parks and preserves – but we strongly urge all park guests to keep their hands clean, avoid touching their faces and to maintain a safe social distance of 6 feet per the CDC.

Visit the "Find a Park" tab sdparks.org to locate a destination near you – there are more than a hundred locales with nearly 370 miles of trails in our park portfolio.

We will continue to work behind the scenes to maintain your outdoor spaces, sanitize restrooms, remove trash, patrol trails, enforce park policies, answer calls, care for animal ambassadors and complete key projects. Safety is a priority, and we’ve taken action to reduce risk in parks while providing critical and essential services to our customers. 

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

3/18/20

Due to the most recent update shared by County Health Officials, we will be canceling all ranger-led activities scheduled to take place in our parks and preserves through the end of March. 

Senior Lunch at Lakeside Community Center has been also canceled - as have the senior lunches that take place at Fallbrook and Spring Valley Community Centers. 

Parks and preserves remain open, pending inclement weather. Check our Alerts page for the latest information. 

All facility closures [listed below] still apply.

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

3/17/20

The following DPR facilities are closed today through March 31, or until further notice:

  • Stelzer Animal Visitor Room
  • San Elijo Nature Center
  • Santa Ysabel Nature Center
  • The Temple Beth Israel Room at Heritage Park
  • Rancho Guajome Adobe
  • Rancho de Los Penasquitos Adobe
  • Goodan Ranch Center in Sycamore Canyon
  • Fallbrook Community Center
  • Lakeside Community Center
  • Lakeside Teen Center
  • Spring Valley Community Center
  • Spring Valley Gymnasium
  • Spring Valley Teen Center
  • 4S Ranch Park Reservation Office

All other County parks and preserves remain open, pending inclement weather. Check our Alerts page for the latest information. 

For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com .

 3/14/20 

To protect the public due to the novel coronavirus, the County Parks and Recreation Department (DPR) is postponing the following events, which were scheduled to be held March 13 through March 31, 2020.

  • All DPR programs inside Fallbrook, Lakeside and Spring Valley Community Centers, and Spring Valley Gymnasium (offices remain open)
  • Daily senior lunches at Fallbrook Community Center
  • Breakfast with the Bunny at Fallbrook Community Center – March 28
  • Breakfast with the Bunny at Otay Lakes – March 28
  • Eggstravaganza at San Dieguito – March 28

The following facilities are also closed: Lakeside Teen Center and Spring Valley Teen Center. All other parks and park facilities remain open, pending inclement weather. 

The County’s Public Health Officer banned mass gatherings and announced social distancing and visiting restrictions, countywide, on March 12 to slow the regional spread of novel coronavirus, which causes the disease COVID-19. For more information regarding the novel coronavirus and current status, visit the County’s coronavirus webpage at coronavirus-sd.com.

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