May 26, 2008 (rt23 news) - (08/36) TRENTON - With New Jerseyans eager to welcome the unofficial start of summer, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson today announced that all of the state’s parks, forests and other recreation areas are open and ready for visitors this Memorial Day weekend.

“Given the considerable challenges we face, I’m particularly delighted this year to invite residents and visitors to celebrate this weekend close to home by swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife watching or simply picnicking in our scenic parks, forests and recreation areas,” Commissioner Jackson said.

The swimming areas will be open at Bass River State Forest, Cheesequake State Park, High Point State Park, Hopatcong State Park, Island Beach State Park, Parvin State Park, Ringwood State Park, Spruce Run Recreation Area, Stokes State Forest, Swartswood State Park, Wawayanda State Park and Wharton State Forest.

The swimming area at Round Valley Recreation Area will be closed this weekend because no lifeguards will be on duty.

It is not immediately known whether Belleplain State Forest’s swimming area will be open. Before making the trip, the public is asked to call the park office at (609) 861-2404 for the most current information on its status.

In addition, all other state parks and forests without swimming areas will be open to the public this weekend.