The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is temporarily suspending all overnight camping in the Peekamoose Valley area of the Sundown Wild Forest of the Catskill Park in the Town of Denning, Ulster County to protect public health and ensure adherence to social distancing protocols. 

Interested visitors can find the latest information on additional closures and restrictions here, https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/120286.html

DEC will continue to assess camping status and will announce when these areas reopen to the recreating public. While enjoying time outdoors, New Yorkers should follow CDC/NYS Department of Health (DOH) guidelines for preventing the spread of disease:

·         Try to keep at least six feet of distance between you and others;

·         Avoid close contact such as shaking hands, hugging, or sharing binoculars;

·         Wash hands often or use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available; and

·         Avoid surfaces that are touched often such as handrails, doorknobs, and playground equipment.

DEC and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) are encouraging New Yorkers to engage in responsible recreation during the ongoing COVID-19 response. DEC and State Parks recommendations incorporate guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the New York State Department of Health for reducing the spread of infectious diseases and encourage New Yorkers to recreate locally, practice physical distancing, and use common sense to protect themselves and others. 

For More Information on recreating during COVID-19 pandemic: Catskill Center Recommends Following Social Distancing Guidelines When Engaging in Outdoor Recreation Activities, Including Recreating Locally.