In efforts to help mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, the city of San Marcos will be closing its river parks at 8 p.m. June 25 until further notice.

The parks that will be closed include Rio Vista Park, City Park, San Marcos Plaza Park, Juan Veramendi Park, Bicentennial Park, Children’s Park, Crook Park, Dog Beach, Cape’s Dam, Thompson’s Island, Stokes Park, Ramon Lucio Park and Wildlife Annex/Wilderness Park, according to a press release from the city.

In addition, playgrounds, basketball courts along with the Rio Vista Pool will remain closed until further notice. Public restrooms and water fountains in all city parks will also be closed.

Natural areas will remain open, but visitors need to practice social distancing of at least 6 feet or wear masks if unable to do so. Visitors will be prohibited from gathering in groups of five people or more.

The natural areas that remain open include Blanco Shoals Natural Area, Prospect Park Natural Area, Purgatory Creek Natural Area, Ring Tail Ridge Natural Area, Schulle Canyon Natural Area, Sessom Creek Natural Area and Spring Lake Natural Area.

Individuals who violate park closures will be subject to a fine of up to $1,000 and possible arrest on charges of criminal trespass in the case that an individual refuses to leave after being warned to do so.

The Lion’s Club Tube Rental will also close at 8 p.m June 25 in coordination with the city’s efforts to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

The Hays County Veterans Memorial will remain open, but river access from behind the memorial will be restricted.

For more information, visit the city’s
website.