REDDING, CA., May 22, 2023 — As we prepare to honor those who gave their lives in military
service to this nation this Memorial Day weekend, the USDA Forest Service is also preparing to
welcome visitors to national forests. Memorial Day is the kickoff to the summer season and no
bigger way to welcome the summer season than to go camping.
The winter moisture has been greatly appreciated, but in some places, the snow has been
sticking around and will delay the opening of some of our campgrounds, specifically those
around the Mt Shasta and McCloud areas. Do not worry, the campgrounds will open, but
please be patient as mother nature does her thing.
Please also note that some trails may also take time to “melt out” so please consider that in
your activity planning. At this point, campgrounds and trails above 3,000 feet in elevation may
still be impacted, meaning there will be delayed openings or not fully accessible. Please check
Shasta-Trinity National Forest – Home (usda.gov) for alerts on sites, campgrounds, and trails,
and for information regarding where dispersed camping or campfires may not be allowed. Visit
Recreation.gov to see if campgrounds require a reservation and have alternative destinations in
mind in case you arrive at an area that is closed or overcrowded.
Camping is made better with campfires, bringing more enjoyment to our summer outings. If
you choose to have a campfire, using designated fire rings within developed campgrounds is
the best and safest option. Those camping outside of developed campgrounds – known as
dispersed camping – are reminded to be extra vigilant in ensuring their campfire is DEAD OUT
before leaving the area unattended. Many human-caused wildfires on public lands are caused
by escaped campfires from dispersed camping. Campfire permits are required and can be
obtained at your local Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or
Bureau of Land Management office.
As you head out to your national forest, please stay safe while enjoying the outdoors:
• Conditions: Check the weather forecast and water conditions.
• Leave your site cleaner than you found it: All water sources are connected and home
to fish and other life. Protect our waters; pack out what you pack in.
• Campfires: Attend to your campfire at all times. Ensure your fire is completely
extinguished: drown with water, stir with your shovel, drown again, and feel for any
heat using the back of your hand. Continue this process until no heat remains.
• Stoves: If using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other debris
that may catch fire. Prevent stoves from tipping.
• Vehicles: Stick to designated trails and be careful of parking or driving your car or ATV
in tall, dry, vegetation, including grass. When traveling, ensure your chains are properly
connected with any type of trailer. The hot underside of the vehicle and dragging
chains start a fire.
• Flammable Items: Fireworks are prohibited on all national forests year-round, leave
them and all other pyrotechnic devices at home. Always use caution with smoking.
Extinguish all smoking materials dead out on bare soil. Pack out all cigarette butts and
filters.
“This winter has brought a lot of moisture, which we are so thankful for,” said Ruth Esperance,
Public Affairs Officer. “As you plan your holiday activities, please plan for safety in the water
and on land, to assure you can enjoy your favorite recreational opportunities on our public
lands.”
Visit www.recreateresponsibly.org to learn more and follow #RecreateResponsibly on social
media.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
Contact Title: Ruth Esperance
(605) 381-5111
ruth.esperance@usda.gov
www.fs.usda.gov/stnf
Press Release: MemorialDay CG 5.22.23
