January 1, 2021 8:45 a.m. 

While whale watching and the 2021 First Day Hikes are taking place, volunteers are not stationed at whale watching site and hikes won’t be led by rangers or volunteers.

Lisa Sumption, director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department said, “Oregonians loves these traditions, but with the pandemic continuing to affect our communities we encourage everyone to visit the whale watching sites and hike or explore a state park January 1st on their own”.

An OPRD release said the parking fee for the 25 parks that normally require a parking permit are waived for January 1st. Some parks may display posters that include recommended hikes and ranger favorites.

Sumption said visitors are encouraged to explore parks close to their homes, wear face coverings and practice recommended social distancing.

While trained volunteers and staff are not available at whale watching sites, most sites remain open to visitors: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=things-to-do.whale-watching. The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay is closed, but the viewing deck on the exterior of the building is open.

To see which state parks are open and closed, check the status map: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=visit.status.