Parking Lots at all City of Camas Parks and Trailheads Closed

City of Camas Closes Park Facilities as Part of COVID-19 Response

Following the guidance of local and state agencies and in line with Governor Inslee’s recent Stay Home, Stay Healthy announcement, the City of Camas is closing all parks facilities effective immediately until further notice to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The closure applies to play structures, sports fields, sports courts, picnic shelters and restrooms. Trails, open grass areas and greenspaces remain open, though patrons are urged to maintain social distancing, limit group interaction and adhere to public health recommendations at all times.

“I’m asking all Camas residents and those who visit our parks to please refrain from coming out to use the facilities at this time,” urged Mayor Barry McDonnell. “As a parent of four kids, I understand that you’re looking for things to do, but I’m asking you to help us stop this virus.”

Individuals should not call 911 to report others in noncompliance and should avoid confrontations over enforcement. Instead, the city is asking the community to come together and to abide by the rules.

“We recognize that time outdoors has many benefits, both mental and physical, and that our parks and open space provide a critical support to our community during this difficult time,” said Camas Parks and Recreation Manager Jerry Acheson. “Our parks and trails are still open for activities where social distancing can be maintained, such as walking, jogging, cycling and nature viewing. Please enjoy these activities alone or with your family, but do not congregate and be sure to follow social distancing guidelines.”

The city’s parks will continue to be maintained during the closure, but to a lesser extent than usual due to reduced staffing levels enacted to meet CDC recommendations for protecting citizens and employees. Earlier this month, also following the lead of local and state agencies, Camas Parks and Recreation canceled all programs, special events and facility rentals through April 2020. Last week, City Hall, Camas Public Library and all other municipal buildings were closed to the public. Patrons may access city services online at www.cityofcamas.us, by phone at 360-834-6864 and through the CamasConnect app.

The city will continue to monitor newly released information to determine closures and cancellations going forward. For an up-to-date listing of modifications to city programming and operations, the public is encouraged to visit www.cityofcamas.us/ourcommunity/covid-19. About the City of Camas Located in eastern Clark County, the City of Camas is home to approximately 23,000 residents. Camas boasts a vibrant historic downtown, miles of trails, numerous hi-tech manufacturing industries, and a state--leading educational system. From its origins over 100 years ago as a paper mill town, Camas continues to successfully blend a mix of cultures, values, and vision. For more information, visit www.cityofcamas.us.

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On March 16, Governor Jay Inslee issued a statewide emergency proclamation to temporarily shut down restaurants, bars, and entertainment and recreational facilities, in addition to prohibiting event gatherings of 50 or more people.

In response to the proclamation and in alignment with current guidance from Clark County Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Camas Parks and Recreation is making the following changes, beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, until further notice:

• Lacamas Lake Lodge and the Camas Community Center will be closed.
• All classes, programs, leagues, and meetings will be postponed until the lodge and the center reopen.
• Private rentals scheduled to take place during the closure are canceled and will be fully refunded. For rental questions or to reschedule your event for a later date, please email Susan Newlove at snewlove@cityofcamas.us.

We do not take this decision lightly, but given the seriousness of the current situation, we believe this is the most responsible choice we can make to best serve the interests of our employees and community. We will continue to work in close partnership with Clark County Public Health to minimize both the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus and the disruption to the recreation activities that so many people rely on.

For information on this evolving situation, including future facility and activity changes, please visit the City’s website, www.cityofcamas.us. If you have questions or need assistance, please email parks@cityofcamas.us or phone 360-834-5307.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this difficult time.

For up-to-date information, please check the following link: http://www.cityofcamas.us/ourcommunity/covid-19

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Welcome to the City of Camas Parks and Recreation Department where we strive to provide the community with a variety of activities year round. The Camas Parks and Recreation offices are located in Lacamas Lake Lodge and Conference Center, 227 NE Lake Road. We also oversee the Camas Community Center, Fallen Leaf Lake Park, Scout Hall, 14 parks, 22 miles of trails and over 1250 acres of open space.

Sign up to receive our online newsletter as soon as it's available! If you would like to register for our programs or view our special events, please click on the registration link on the left sidebar or visit us at Lacamas Lake Lodge and Conference Center. Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Our phone number is (360)834-5307.

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CAMAS PARKS & RECREATION REGISTRATION FORM