Get ready for packed beaches this summer - Connecticut state parks will be going back to full capacity.

The state lifted all capacity limits at beaches and parks Friday. Picnic areas are reopening, along with public bathrooms, concession areas and cabins.

"Really, we're going back to the way we were before the pandemic," says state Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes.

The state will even offer free bus rides to parks.

"With the trends going in terms of infection rates, vaccinations stepping up, we think we're going to be able to resume the old way," she says.

Masks will be enforced and lifeguards will have strict instructions. But COVID-19 variants remain a threat.

Westport resident Cindy Reejhsinghani says she thinks this is all happening too fast.

"I think we should probably wait to see what this next - is there a fourth wave?" she says.

"Yeah, I really do feel like, once they get vaccinated, everybody's going to feel as if they are, you know, invincible, and I'm not sure that's the case," says Jen Anco, of Westport.

Bridgewater resident Peter Mariano says if there's one place it's safe to be - it's outside.

"Excellent, excellent idea. It's the healthiest thing for people to get fresh air, be in the sun," Mariano says.

You can use picnic areas right now, but if you want to use the bathrooms or the concession areas, you'll have to wait until Memorial Day.

Starting Thursday, you can reserve campgrounds and cabins at state parks.