How to Enjoy National Forests This Memorial Day

Press release from Six Rivers National Forest:

Memorial Day weekend, honoring the heroes who gave their lives in military service to this nation, also marks the kickoff of summer for many visitors to national forests. Strong storms and heavy snow over the past couple of years have impacted forest areas. Some sites are closed due to lingering snowpack, flooding or road damage. Crews continue to use all available resources to get these areas open and safe for the public to enjoy. With closures or delayed openings at popular recreation sites, the USDA Forest Service asks for your patience. We value safety first. For up-to-date information on campground openings on the Six Rivers National Forest please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/srnf/recreation The following tips can help everyone have a positive experience on national forests: With May as Water Safety Month, follow these water-smart reminders: Do not enter cold, rapid water. It can be dangerous for you and first responders. Never enter the water to rescue a victim. Throw something that floats. Call 9-1-1. Do not drive through high waters. Water is often moving faster than it appears. #RecreateResponsibly | Water Safety Know Before You Go. Check in with local Forest Service offices for closures and alerts. Use forest websites and social media for updates on sites and trails for the 18 national forests in California. Know the area and any restrictions to activities, roads and trails within national forests. Pack essentials. Hikers and campers should always bring the basics — including, navigation, lights, first aid, clothes for changing weather, food, water and a smartphone (but be prepared for reception to be spotty or unavailable.) Hikers should also give a detailed travel plan and GPS location upon arrival to someone not on the hike, in case of an emergency. Observe all posted signs and warnings. There may not be barriers or signs at each closed location. Remember, GPS is not always reliable for current closures and conditions. And gates should never be opened when closed, even if GPS shows the best route through the area. Citations may still be issued even if no signs exist when a forest order is in place. Note your surroundings. Many campgrounds and hiking trails are near lakes and rivers with changing water conditions. Water could be colder and swifter than you realize. Be aware of winds and avoid areas with dead standing trees. Look up before you choose a trail, park your car, or set up camp. And no matter how tempting, do not park your car illegally and block emergency vehicle access. In observance of Memorial Day all Six Rivers National Forest offices will close at 2:30pm on Friday May 24 and remain closed through Monday May 27, resuming normal business hours on Tuesday May 28, 2024. Additional Weather and Planning Resources 1.      Caltrans QuickMap — Current information on road closures 2.     Weather Watches, Warnings and Advisories | National Weather Service 3.      California Office of Emergency Services | Cal OES

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