Forest Preserves Remain Open under Extension of Statewide Stay-At-Home Order
The Champaign County Forest Preserve District remains committed to supporting the health of our residents and visitors under the State of Illinois shelter-from-home order from the Governor’s Office. On March 31, 2020, Governor Pritzker extended the order for people to stay at home through the end of April 2020.
Under the governor’s executive order, forest preserves and other public parks continue to offer essential, healthy outdoor activities for community residents. Therefore, the Champaign County Forest Preserves will remain open for hiking, dog walking, fishing, and other outdoor recreational pursuits. Parks and green spaces offer important opportunities for our county residents to relax, exercise, and connect with nature.
Based on the governor’s guidance, all playgrounds within the preserves will continue to be closed to discourage the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Playgrounds are taped off and posted with caution signs across the preserves. The golf course is also closed, although staff continue to maintain the course on a daily basis so it will be in great shape when it does reopen.
District offices and indoor locations, including restrooms, will remain closed at least until April 30. This includes the Museum of the Grand Prairie and Homer Lake Interpretive Center. Phone calls and emails to staff will be returned as soon as possible. Public programs and events are canceled until at least April 30.
The District may close the preserves if the Governor’s Office orders that further distancing measures must be taken. We will monitor COVID-19 developments as they occur. Updates can be found on our website at www.ccfpd.org.
The District strongly encourages visitors to bring their own hand sanitizer for personal use when visiting all preserve areas, and as always, please adhere to public health guidelines for keeping at least six feet of distance between yourself and other visitors.
