Playgrounds, sports fields and even some popular hiking trails in the area are closing in response to Washington Governor Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order, designed to prevent the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus that causes a deadly respiratory disease known as COVID-19.
Since being discovered in December 2019, COVID-19 has infected more than 463,000 people worldwide and killed more than 20,000 people, including five Clark County residents.
The following details closures in Camas, Washougal, Clark and Skamania counties and other areas of Southwest Washington.
Camas closures
The city of Camas closed all parks facilities effective immediately and until further notice. The closure applies to play structures, sports fields, sports courts, picnic shelters and restrooms. Trails, open grass areas and greenspaces remain open, though patrons are urged to maintain social distancing, limit group interaction and adhere to public health recommendations at all times.
“I’m asking all Camas residents and those who visit our parks to please refrain from coming out to use the facilities at this time,” Camas Mayor Barry McDonnell stated in the city’s press release about the parks facility closures. “As a parent of four kids, I understand that you’re looking for things to do, but I’m asking you to help us stop this virus.”