Here’s how to safely visit parks during the coronavirus pandemic, according to the CDC

Some states, including Texas, have started reopening parks as a way to loosen lockdown restrictions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

Texas will reopen state parks starting on Monday, according to a release from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

Visitors will be required to wear face masks at state parks, avoid gatherings of more than five people, and maintain six feet of distance in order to avoid spreading COVID-19, The Texas Tribune reported.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidelines on how to visit national and state parks safely during the pandemic.

The CDC recommends visiting parks close to where you live, preparing before the visit, staying at least six feet away from people, and keeping space around and in swimming pools.

National parks are opening on a case-by-case basis and the CDC recommends checking which areas and services are open before your visit in order to prepare accordingly.

Don’t visit parks if you were exposed to COVID-19 or are sick, the CDC says. Avoid crowded parks, hot tubs, spas, water parks, playgrounds, sports and other organized activities.

This story was originally published April 20, 2020 at 10:35 AM with the headline "Here’s how to safely visit parks during the coronavirus pandemic, according to the CDC."