Chicago outdoors/coronavirus: Mac canceled, trout, lakefront, Ind. licenses, Crab Orchard NWR, Wis. camping

CHICAGO- The Chicago Yacht Club and the Race to Mackinac (CYCRTM) Committee announced today that it has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Race to Mackinac due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

All 2019-20 basic hunting, basic fishing, hunt/fish combo, youth licenses, and stamps set to expire March 31, 2020 are now valid until the end of June. After that, you will need a 2020-21 license and/or stamp to hunt, fish, or trap. Keep a printed or electronic copy with you while hunting or fishing. If you do not have a 2019-20 annual license or stamp, a 2020-21 annual license is required. One hundred percent of your purchase goes directly toward the conservation of Indiana’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats. Purchase online at on.IN.gov/INhuntfish.

. . . Beginning June 4th, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge reopened public access to the Blue Heron and Little Grassy Campgrounds and Marinas for the summer season. Beginning June 11th, the Crab Orchard Lake Campground will also open. Please note these changes at the campground are in compliance with state guidance: Campsites can only accommodate the single-family unit occupying that campsite Campers are encouraged use any self-contained restroom in their own camper No tent camping No outside visitors at any campsite Limited showers available More than 12 miles of trails are available for hiking and the 14-mile auto tour route is open for cars and bikes within CDC social distancing guidance. Entry fees also remain waived until further notice. The health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and employees remains our number one priority and the following facilities or areas remain closed until further notice: Devils Kitchen Lake Campground Crab Orchard Lake Beach Little Grassy Lake Beach Visitor center will remain closed . . . Please visit the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge website for current updates and status.

COVID-19 Update Beginning June 10, 2020 standard campgrounds at Wisconsin State Parks will open. Group campsites, day use facilities (shelters and amphitheaters) and Rock Island State Park will remain closed through June 30. Property offices will remain closed and campers should head directly to their reserved campsite upon arrival. Check-in will be automatic via the Camis reservation system. Reservations are required for all sites and may be made online or by calling 1-888-947-2757. Firewood and concessions are not available at state parks at this time and should be purchased before campers arrive. COVID-19 Information Webpage