Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest temporarily closed public access to the Red River Gorge, in addition to multiple recreation areas throughout the forest, on March 27 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
And they have just announced a tentative reopening date: June 3 — at least for a portion of the park.
The forest will begin reopening site-by-site starting that date, says a release from the U.S. Forest Service.
Slated to reopen June 3 is Red River Gorge, including the Geological Area, Clifty Wilderness and Indian Creek; most day-use sites (picnic areas, shooting ranges); and Redbird Crest and White Sulphur Off-Highway Vehicle Trails.
Then, on June 11, most developed campgrounds will reopen.
These dates are in line with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear's Healthy at Work reopening timeline.
“Closing any site for any reason is not one we take lightly, but protecting our visitors and employees remains our highest priority. We are approaching re-opening with safety in mind,” said Daniel Boone National Forest Supervisor Dan Olsen in a release. “We are looking forward to seeing our recreation sites being enjoyed by the people from the communities we serve.”
The Forest Service says most of the Daniel Boone National Forest boat launches, trails and general forest area have remained open to hikers, bikers, boaters, "dispersed camping," hunters and fishers, but these other vast reopening dates may need to be updated if virus circumstances or other conditions change.
Forest offices are not currently accepting in-person visits, but you can contact the office for general information or info on how to obtain a map.
They also recommend you check out the latest from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the state for social distancing and cloth face coverings before visiting the park.
Get the most up-to-date info on the park at facebook.com/danielboonenf.
