In support of our request to the DNR, we submitted the following responses and comments to their communication on why recreational camping remains closed:
DNR: Camping often involves distance travel. During the Stay at Home order, we need to curtail non-essential travel to avoid potentially spreading the virus. We also do not want to overwhelm rural communities—for example, health systems or even grocery stores—should a visitor become ill or need supplies.
HM Comments: Dr. Michael Osterholm, world-renowned epidemiologist, was recently asked to comment on similar concerns in an interview with the
Star Tribune about outdoor recreation:
“Q: Some rural communities worry that a summer influx of tourists, beginning with the fishing opener, might overwhelm smaller health care systems if travelers get sick. Do you see that as a problem?
A: Generally, no. This is not an illness that knocks you off your feet in a few hours. Most people who are healthy when they head up north or wherever they’re going will be able to get home if they get sick while traveling. It’s not like you’ll be taken to an emergency room, in most cases.”
Given that the state currently allows Minnesota residents and others to access personal cabins, commercial cabins, resorts, hotels and now “dispersed and remote camping sites” it seems clear that such travel is already occurring, and it appears in our view inconsistent and arbitrary to single out RV camping for such a ban, especially in light of the inherent ability to social distance and remain safe with these self-contained vehicles.
DNR: Campgrounds do not lend themselves to social distancing. We are drawn to congregate with each other over campfires and in common spaces. Although individual campsites may provide space for social distancing, shared bathroom facilities and other campground amenities do not.
HM Comments: While this may be true of tent or group camping sites, this not the case for RV camping for the reasons laid out above. These operators and their guests are prepared to operate by closing public restrooms, common areas and amenities to ensure social distancing. Again, the self-contained nature of these RVs necessitate that they be treated differently from tent camping, and similar to cabins when it comes to public health and safety.
DNR: It is difficult to maintain the enhanced sanitation protocols required by COVID-19. Many camping locations are not staffed 24/7 and most bathroom and shower facilities are not single-occupant. As a result, we don’t have the capacity to ensure facilities are properly sanitized between each camper.
Comments: Again, while this may be the case in state parks or other public campgrounds, enhanced sanitation at RV sites is quite strait forward and practicable and these private RV campgrounds typically
are staffed 24/7. There are minimal points of contact, including a picnic table and the hook-ups, all of which will be wiped down and sanitized thoroughly between guest usage. Shared bathrooms, shower facilities and other amenities will remain closed.