By Michael Johnson
OSWEGO COUNTY – For many residents of Central New York and the northeast, the arrival of summer means the beginning of another long awaited camping season.
Whether a camping enthusiast returns to a familiar location year after year, or travels to a variety of parks and campgrounds, 2020 is proving to be a challenge, and plans will have to be adjusted to the reality of social distancing.
As efforts to re-open New York unfold, local parks and campgrounds are adjusting to a different way of doing business while still providing their patrons with an enjoyable camping experience.
North Bay Campgrounds, on the shore of Lake Neatahwanta, is owned and operated by the City of Fulton. Mayor Deana Michaels sees the coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to reassess and improve the facility in a number of ways.
“The pandemic will have a long lasting impact on the way we do business, and it has allowed us to reevaluate the way we run the campground,” Michaels said. “Nothing is off the table, and we are looking at a number of improvements as we move forward.”
The campground has changed its entry and exit protocols, allowing for an improved check-in experience for guests and better traffic flow.
”We are looking at fee structures and improving the campground’s appearance,” Michaels said.
North Bay recently partnered with Fulton Alliance Church to re-decorate the entrance to the campground.
”This is our time to take a good look at how we run the campground,” Michaels said.
The Campground Owners of New York offers a comprehensive list of bulletins and directives issued by New York state and other agencies to assist campground owners and employees in adjusting to the new reality of social distancing and cleaning protocols. These informative guides are updated frequently as state guidelines evolve.
According to a recent press release, New York State Parks will begin to accept new camping reservations as of Monday, June 8. These reservations will allow for check in beginning on June 22.
Campers visiting and camping in New York’s State Parks are being reminded to follow proper social distancing suggestions, and to bring and wear a face mask or covering. Camping capacity will be limited and an advance reservation must be in place before arrival at the park.
Reservations can be made by calling toll free 1-800-456-camp or online. It is being suggested to try to make reservations online if possible.
When checking in, campers will be asked a series of questions relating to their health and recent personal contacts. People who may be at risk will not be permitted to enter.
Newly trained Park Social Distancing Ambassadors will be available to to help guests follow and meet social distancing guidelines. All campground programs and events are suspended until further notice. All playground equipment will be closed and contact sports are not permitted.
As New York works its way through the stages of re-opening, those who make camping a cornerstone of their enjoyment of summer can feel hopeful. Some changes to the routines of campground life will be easy to adapt to, and some will take a little more time to become familiar.
Patience, and an ability to adapt to new practices designed to keep everyone healthy will make enjoying life outdoors another great Oswego County experience.
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