DNR camping reminders for Memorial Day weekend

Indiana DNR Release:

DNR campgrounds and cabins at state parks, state reservoirs and recreation areas are virtually booked to capacity and ready for Memorial Day weekend. State Forest campgrounds are first-come, first served, and also expect brisk business.

Before you head out the door to camp, a few tips are in order.

If you’re too late to make a reservation for this weekend, don't miss out on a July 4 camping weekend. Cabins and campsites are still available, but will go quickly. Visit www.camp.IN.gov or call 1-866-6CAMPIN (1-866-622-6746) to reserve your favorite cabin, shelter or campsite. Not sure where you want to go? Find property maps and facility information at www.stateparks.IN.gov.

Many new features are ready to enhance your experience no matter when you visit. See http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/files/sp-Property_Updates_and_Successes_for_2009.pdf or go to www.stateparks.IN.gov and click on “Property Updates and Successes” for more information. You also can check out the Hoosier Quest program and other nature, history and recreation activities at www.interpretiveservices.IN.gov or try our SPR Fitness Challenge at http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/files/sp-SPR_2010_Fitness_Challenge.pdf.

Remember, no matter where you’re traveling, check your firewood source before attempting to take it through the property gate because of infestations of the emerald ash borer (EAB) insect.

Those who live in or plan to visit Carroll, Cass, Dubois or Tippecanoe counties should note that all four counties have recently been quarantined for firewood. That means firewood from those counties, along with firewood from other previously quarantined counties, can't be taken into state park, reservoir, recreation areas or state forest properties. The only exceptions are pine firewood, kiln-dried scrap lumber and wood that bears either a federal or state compliance label indicating it was purchased from a vendor whose wood has been inspected. For more about EAB and DNR firewood policy: http://www.IN.gov/dnr/parklake/files/sp-EAB_FAQ.pdf.

DNR-led boat tours at Twin Caves at Spring Mill State Park are open to visitors but all other caves on DNR properties remain closed. The purpose is to slow the uncontrolled spread of white-nosed syndrome (WNS), which is killing bats in record numbers in the eastern United States. While this disease is not a threat to humans, there is evidence that it may be transmitted from cave to cave on the clothing and boots of recreational cavers. Twin Caves is able to remain open because it is a wet cave with controlled boat access only. The WNS fungus settles in soil.

For more information, go to www.dnr.IN.gov/batdisease.