Hi there! I’m planning on going camping in NSW over the Easter break and was wondering if there are any restrictions in place due to Covid-19? Has anyone been recently and can give me some advice? Thanks in advance!
Introduction
Yes, you can go camping in NSW during the Covid19 pandemic, but you must follow the public health orders in place at the time. This includes maintaining social distancing of at least 1.5 metres from other people not in your household, wearing a face mask when outdoors, and keeping good hygiene practices. You should also check with the campsite before you visit to make sure it is open and has space available.
What are the restrictions?
As of 12:01am on Friday 3 July 2020, the following changes will be in place for camping in NSW: -All campgrounds and camping areas in national parks, state forests and reserves will be open for booking. This includes all campsites, accommodation, group areas and day-use areas -There will be a maximum of 30 people per group booking -Campers must bring their own food, bedding and drinking water -A school camp permit will not be required for school camps during the September/October school holidays -All visitors to national parks, state forests and reserves must follow the latest public health advice relating to coronavirus (COVID-19), including maintaining social distancing and good personal hygiene
What does this mean for camping?
The latest information and guidance about COVID-19 and camping in NSW is available on the service NSW website.
Camping in NSW is currently allowed with a maximum of 10 people per booking, unless you are all from the same household. If you are sick or have any symptoms of COVID-19, do not go camping.
For more information about camping during COVID-19, please visit: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/check-camping-allowed-your-area
What are the risks?
There are a number of risks associated with camping during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include:
-You may be exposed to the virus if you come into contact with someone who is infected, either through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.
-You may have difficulty maintaining social distancing if you are camping in close quarters with other people.
-If you are sharing camping equipment (such as tents or cooking gear), there is a risk of contamination.
-There is a risk of contracting other diseases while camping, such as Lyme disease or West Nile virus.
How can I protect myself?
The best way to protect yourself is to stay at home as much as possible. When you do need to go out, remember to keep 1.5 metres between yourself and other people, and don’t gather in groups of more than 10 people.
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and dispose of tissues properly.
If you’re feeling unwell, stay home and get tested for coronavirus (COVID-19).
What are the guidelines?
Yes, you can go camping in NSW so long as you stick to the following guidelines: -You can only stay with the people you live with, or members of your extended household -You must maintain social distancing from other campers – this means staying at least 2 metres apart where possible -You should bring everything you need with you and minimise contact with others by not sharing food or camping equipment -You should clean and disinfect regularly used surfaces -You should not stay at a campsite if you are feeling ill
What should I do if I have symptoms?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough or shortness of breath), please do not go camping. You should get tested and stay at home until you receive a negative result.
Conclusion
As of now, there are no definitive answer as to whether or not you can go camping in NSW during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, it is important to consult the current NSW government guidelines and restrictions before making any plans.
