The U.S. Forest Service announced Thursday it is mandating a limit on group sizes in the Hoosier National Forest, requiring all groups larger than 10 people to split up and "recreate at least 200 yards apart."
A news release from the Forest Service says it will also extend its closure of developed recreation sites in the Hoosier National Forest, including campgrounds, the Hickory Ridge Fire Tower, horse camps and restrooms, to comply with Gov. Eric Holcomb's expanded stay-at-home order.
State officials say the recent warmer weather, coupled with limited "essential businesses" for entertainment means more people have been getting outdoors and spending time in Indiana state parks.
READ MORE: Can I Go For A Walk? Here's What The Expanded 'Stay-At-Home' Order Really Does
"Though enforceable by fine or imprisonment, we are appealing to the better nature of our Forest users to voluntarily comply with these temporary restrictions to assist the nation in containing this virus and limiting its spread," the news release says.
Holcomb’s April 6 extension of the stay-at-home order shut down campgrounds, welcome centers, inns, cabins and other buildings at state parks. But state parks do remain open.
Earlier this week, Brown County residents urged state officials to close state properties, saying that the county is being swamped by out-of-towners on the way to and from parks.
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