CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Padre Island National Seashore is increasing recreational access, following under guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local public health authorities.
The National Park Service is working servicewide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.
Beginning on Saturday, Padre Island National Seashore will end day-use only hours and open access to:
· Overnight beach camping on North Beach and South Beach
· Yarborough Pass four-wheel road.
- Overnight boat trailer parking at Bird Island Boat Ramp
With public health in mind, the following facilities remain will remain closed at the present time include Malaquite Visitor Center, Malaquite Campground and Bird Island Basin Campground.
“Our park rangers have been in close contact with our surrounding local officials, and we believe that visitors to all our Texas beaches can maintain good social distancing while enjoying much needed time outdoors with friends and family," PINS Park Superintendent Eric Brunnemann said.
"And please remember, this is also sea turtle nesting season, so share the beaches with our Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, and report any sea turtle sightings to a passing turtle patroller or by calling (361) 949-8173, ext. 226.”