El Paso County Closing Ascarate Park for Easter, But City Parks Will Remain Open

Easter has traditionally been a time for family cook-outs at Ascarate Park, but this Easter Sunday do not plan on making a hippity hoppity stoppity at Ascarate Park. El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego has declared the park off limits for the day.

“In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, El Paso County Parks and Recreation will be closing Ascarate Park to patrons Easter Sunday, April 4,” declares a statement on the El Paso County Parks & Recreation Facebook. The walking/biking trails at Ascarate will be accessible to the public again on Monday, April 5, and you’ll be able to fish again on that day, too.

Its holiday closure doesn’t mean you can’t have an egg-cellent Easter Sunday adventure in the great outdoors. The City of El Paso is keeping its parks open for picnics, grilling, and egg hunts.

Visitors, however, are asked to continue wearing face coverings, practice physical distancing, avoid gathering with people outside of their household, and clean up after themselves and their pets.

City parks are equipped with trash bins, but visitors are encouraged to bring trash bags. Alcoholic beverages, and smoking (including e-cigarettes) are not allowed in city parks.

Do’s and Don’ts for Picnicking Park Visitors

• All trash should be bagged and thrown in provided trash cans. Trash should not be left in boxes or grocery bags.

• If trash cans are full, park patrons are asked to take their trash with them when they leave and dispose of it properly at home. Waste should not be left in grocery bags or boxes on tables or next to trash cans.

• Charcoal should be properly extinguished and thrown in trash cans, not discarded on the ground or under trees.