The Forest Service has announced that they’re starting to open up access to developed recreational opportunities.
In California we’re part of Region 5 – the Pacific Southwest Region, which manages 18 national Forests from Klamath and Modoc in the northern part of the state all the way through the Angeles, San Bernardino, and Cleveland National Forests in the southern part of the state. These national forests cover more than 20 million acres of our lands and supply 50% of the water in the state.
While the undeveloped lands will open up more quickly, the developed areas – campgrounds, visitor centers, services, etc. – will open as the random nonsensical plan of Gavin Newsom permits.
In the meantime, the U.S. Forest Service has the following advice:
- Practice self-sufficiency when visiting national forests and come prepared with all the essentials needed for a day trip, including food, emergency supplies, and the ability to pack-out trash.
- Maintain at least six feet distancing from others.
- Do not gather in groups and follow the latest guidance from health officials.
- Communicate with others as you pass. Alert trail users of your presence and step aside to let others pass.
- Pack out your trash and leave with everything you bring in and use.
The USFS calls this “recreating responsibly,” and state that following these guidelines “will help ensure that expanded access to recreational facilities, services, and opportunities continue.”
Not all areas are open yet, so make sure you check the USFS websites before you head out, and have a back-up plan if you can’t find parking or If the recreation area is full when you get there.
You can find out more about the national forest you’re interested in HERE.