A closed sign is pictured at a playground at Long Point State Park in the town of Ellery. The state has closed all playground within state park grounds. P-J photo by Eric Tichy

Efforts to combat the coronavirus and promote social distancing has forced the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to close its playgrounds, athletic courts and sporting fields on state park grounds.

“Gov. Cuomo is urging all New Yorkers to stay home as much as possible,” the state Parks Department said on its website. “If you do plan on visiting, it should be for a healthy nature break. For the safety of all visitors and to stop the spread of COVID-19, all state park playgrounds, athletic courts and sporting fields are closed.”

At Long Point State Park in the town of Ellery, yellow caution tape has been placed on two playgrounds with signs that read: “Playground Closed to Stop the Spread of COVID-19.”

The state did say its parks, trails and grounds of historic sites remain open for open-air, outdoor recreation.

“Please limit outdoor recreational activities to non-contact, and avoid activities where you may come in close contact with other people,” the state said on its parks website. “If you arrive at a park and crowds are forming, choose a different park or trail, or return another time/day to visit. We appreciate your support and patience as we navigate this public health crisis together.”