NORFOLK, Nebraska – Campers can begin to enjoy their favorite pastime at various recreation areas later this month. The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) will be opening the campgrounds at their recreation areas on Wednesday, May 20.

“Due to COVID-19, social distancing efforts have been enforced to save lives," said LENRD General Manager Mike Sousek. "On May 20, we plan to open our campgrounds at Maskenthine Lake near Stanton and the Maple Creek Recreation Area near Leigh with some restrictions.”

Beginning on May 20, the RV campsites will have the following requirements:

• The camping sites are first-come, first-served for $25 per night.
• Tent camping is not allowed until further notice.
• Only self-contained RVs, with factory features that allow them to hold potable water, contain wastewater/sewage and connect to electrical service, will be allowed.
• Shower houses and restrooms are closed until further notice. RV dump stations will be open.
• Each campsite will be limited to eight guests, and the length of stay will be limited to 7 days.
• Designated beach and swimming areas are closed until further notice, in part due to recent incidents involving large gatherings and lack of social distancing.
• Other waterfront areas are open for day use and fishing as long as social distancing and the 10-person gathering size limit are maintained.
• Picnic shelters, undesignated campsites, and playgrounds are closed until further notice.

“We will provide updates as they become available," Sousek added. "Please take precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including social distancing even in outdoor spaces.”

“We look forward to restoring more recreational opportunities as conditions improve," said LENRD Recreation Area Superintendent Leonard Boryca. "Our priority is protecting everyone’s health by following the CDC guidelines.”

These LENRD-managed recreation areas are multipurpose projects, offering outdoor opportunities to enhance the quality of life for all residents, as well as a range of conservation benefits including: groundwater recharge, wildlife habitat and soil erosion prevention. More information can be found at: http://www.lenrd.org/recreation