In the interest of maintaining the social distancing measures outlined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most of the state and national parks near San Diego are currently closed. Fortunately, there are ways to get out and enjoy San Diego nature. Several local sites, including national forests, sand dunes, and coastal areas, still are open for people to enjoy outdoor recreational activities as long as they adhere to guidelines for social distancing around San Diego.
Hiking at Cleveland National Forest
The Cleveland National Forest is located to the east of Warner Springs, California. All picnic facilities and developed campgrounds in this recreation area are closed. Fortunately, the majority of the trails are still open. Visitors should always maintain a six-foot distance from others on the trail. Some of the more heavily-used trails may be closed, at least temporarily, if they become too crowded. Dispersed camping is still allowed in undeveloped portions of the forest, as long as the groups remain small and spread apart from each other.
Cleveland National Forest is a great place for viewing local wildlife. You can also enjoy scenic drives here. Even though picnic areas are not open, feel free to pack a lunch and eat it in your car if you find a picturesque place to stop. Visitors should be aware that some of the forest roads may be impassable at certain times of the year due to mud or snow. You can call a local ranger station for updated information on current road conditions.
Enjoying city parks around San Diego
The city of San Diego wants residents to feel comfortable participating in recreational activities outdoors, though people are strongly encouraged to stay as close to home as possible. Fortunately, some city parks are open on a limited basis. Playground equipment and picnic facilities remain closed, but residents can use the walking paths. Visitors are asked to only engage in activities individually (or with immediate family members who live within your household). These can be things such as biking, walking, or running. The city is not requiring visitors to wear masks when participating in these activities, though it is strongly encouraged.
Some parks currently open in the San Diego area include Children’s Park, Chicano Park, both Cabrillo Mini Parks, north and south, North Park Community Park, and the Old Trolley Barn Park, among many others. The open status of the parks is subject to change. You can check the current status of city parks using the city website.
Take a walk through your local neighborhood
The San Diego County government is advising people to remain within walking distance of their homes as much as possible when recreating outdoors. This means it is the perfect time to explore your local neighborhood on foot, bicycle, skateboard, etc. As this situation continues to change, residents should stay up-to-date with local guidelines regarding social distancing around San Diego and the current operating hours of the recreation area they are planning to visit.
Get outside
Life looks a little different right now. Fortunately, there are still opportunities to get outside and get some exercise. You can still enjoy certain San Diego nature areas while following social distancing guidelines. So, head to the local forest if it’s safe to do so, check out a city park, or just enjoy your own local neighborhood and find yourself rejuvenated in the beauty of the natural world!
Team Outdoorsy is here to help you along your journey. If you have questions or concerns about your upcoming RV rental, give us a call at 1-877-723-7232, send us an email, or start a chat. And for a continuously updated list of frequently asked COVID-19 questions relating to RV travel, visit our FAQ page.
