The parade will be different.

The fireworks will be different.

But the weather should be just fine a variety of outdoor recreation options for Independence Day on Saturday. Those whose plans include public lands can plan for sun and fun, but should leave the fireworks at home.

“It looks like a great weekend to camp, go for a hike, mountain bike, paddle or just sit and enjoy the outdoors,” Allegheny National Forest Bradford District Ranger Rich Hatfield said. “Recreation use on the Forest has been very high this spring and we expect to see a very busy weekend for July 4.”

The forecast calls for highs in the mid-80s, clear skies, and little chance of rain.

“Kinzua Beach is open for swimming and picnicking,” Hatfield said. “On some of the warmer days, we are seeing a fair amount of use. The reservoir is warming up as well — on hot days, the water is quite refreshing.”

“There are no lifeguards on site so be safe and swim at your own risk,” he said.

The beach at Chapman State Park is seeing a high level of use.

“We have been seeing a 106 percent increase — over two times — the attendance this June over last June,” Park Manager Tyson Martin said.

The beach is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, with an open swim — “at your own risk” — policy in effect. There will not be lifeguards, but park officials will patrol the beach. “Visitors are urged to be vigilant when their children are swimming,” Martin said. “Please follow posted rules and regulations.”

The lake’s water samples have been consistently good this year, including the most recent test this week.

The coronavirus rules have impacted both the national forest and the state park, with distancing and masking rules in effect.

The rules for swimming are not terribly restrictive.

“Capacity is limited to 50 percent normal occupancy, which is still 1,077 people in the water,” Martin said. “We are encouraging social distancing of 6 feet everywhere, so we should not reach capacity if that is being followed. Masks should be worn when not in or near the water.”

There will be many people out camping.

The campgrounds at Chapman are booked solid. “Our campground is full over the holiday weekend, we cannot accommodate any walk-ins,” Martin said.

On the ANF, there are some options.

“Folks should make reservations in advance for our most popular campgrounds – Willow Bay, Kiasutha, Red Bridge, Dewdrop, etc.,” Hatfield said. “For last minute planners, some campgrounds have sites available on a first come — first serve basis including Tracy Ridge and Hearts Content. Dispersed campers should plan on arriving early to secure a dispersed site.”

There are numerous hiking, biking, and paddling options throughout the region.

“The word has gotten out on the Jakes Rocks Mountain Bike Trail – it continues to be popular and we have seen exponential growth this spring in trail use,” Hatfield said. “The trails are in great shape and ready for visitors.”

Critters are welcome on most of Chapman State Park. “Leashed pets are welcome everywhere except the beach area and Upper Loop of the campground,” Martin said.

Alcohol is not. “Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all PA State Parks,” he said.

Fireworks

Fireworks are not an option for people who choose to celebrate at Chapman State Park or the Allegheny National Forest.

“Please leave all fireworks home,” Hatfield said. “Firework use on the Forest is strictly prohibited.”

“All fireworks are prohibited in PA State Parks,” Martin said. “Possessing, discharging or causing to be discharged a firecracker, explosive, torpedo, rocket or other pyrotechnical material …” is a summary offense.