Pasco County reopens trails and wilderness areas

NEW PORT RICHEY — Pasco County commissioners on Tuesday agreed it was time to reopen some recreational areas to let local residents get out of their houses and get some exercise — but still keep social distancing rules in mind.

Beginning Wednesday, the county will reopen select parks and areas to activities outlined in Florida’s safer-at-home order including walking, biking, hiking, fishing and running. Federal and state social distancing guidelines remain in place. Groups of more than 10 will not be permitted and all visitors must maintain social distancing of 6 feet apart to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Limited access will be allowed in:

• Withlacoochee River Park in Dade City
• Aripeka Sandhills Preserve in Hudson
• Boy Scout Preserve in New Port Richey
• Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill
• Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey
• Key Vista Nature Park in Holiday
• Lake Lisa Park in Port Richey
• Pasco Palms Preserve in New Port Richey
• Upper Pithlachascotee Preserve in Spring Hill
• Robert J. Strickland Memorial Park in Hudson.

The restrooms will not be open, however. Boat ramps at Anclote River Park, Robert J. Strickland Park, Moon Lake Park, Middle Lake and Eagle Point Park will remain open as will the Suncoast Trail, Starkey Boulevard Trail and Starkey Gap Trail.

To ensure the safety of county staff and visitors, all recreation complexes and community centers remain closed. There will be no events, activities, youth and adult sports leagues. There will also be be no special event reservations for pavilions, camp and recreational vehicle grounds, cabin rentals, field reservations or any other kinds of reservations.

Visit bit.ly/PascoClosings for the latest information on Pasco County closures.

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