March 21, 2020 3:57 PM
COVID-19 Update- Getting Outside in our Parks
During these unprecedented times, we would like to assure you that our parks, trails and open spaces remain open to allow people to go outside and get some fresh air. Parks provide many benefits that are essential to the wellbeing of our communities. Exercise and spending time in nature can improve both our mental and physical health. Spending just 20 minutes a day outdoors can significantly lower stress hormones while regular exercise can boost our cardiovascular health and immune system.
All playgrounds are closed due to the COVID-19 emergency. We've locked the playgrounds in locations where that's possible, but none should be used at this time.
Healthy people under age 60 can continue to spend time outdoors while complying with the social distancing recommendations of staying at least 6 feet apart from one another. It is OK to go outside to walk your dog, go for a walk, run, ride a bike, and hike alone or with someone in your household. If you'd like to take your children outside, please take them to trails and open parks, not to playgrounds, to help maintain social distance. People over age 60 or those with chronic health conditions are advised to stay inside due to the heightened risk of the virus.
The health and safety of our park users is our top priority. We are advising park visitors to continue to follow DPH guidance around social distancing and adhere to the "Shelter in Place" order to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
For a list of current recommended and not recommended outdoor sport activities see below.
Activities that are allowed (as long as you keep at least 6 feet from anyone else and don't share equipment):
• Running or walking alone, or with others at least six feet away
• Riding your bike with others at least six feet away
• Yoga on your own (no sharing blocks or mats)
• Swimming in the ocean or in your own pool/hot tub
• Playing basketball by yourself, or hitting a tennis ball against a backboard
Not allowed:
• Any team sports where there is any contact or where a ball or other equipment is touched by multiple people (soccer, baseball, basketball, Frisbee, etc.)
• Swimming in a communal pool (San Francisco's municipal pools are all closed)
For the latest update that includes park and program closures, click here.
We encourage you to stay informed on the coronavirus by texting COVID19SF to 888-777.
