NORTH FORK — The unprecedented tree mortality in the Sierra National Forest has created a high number of hazard trees within the Bass Lake Ranger District’s campgrounds.
In recognition of how important a role these campgrounds are to the community, county, valley and beyond, select campgrounds will continue to operate under a reservation system for the entire season, says the Forest Service. Others will remain closed while the District removes hazard trees.
“Once work has been completed in a closed campground, it will be reopened and added to the reservation system for visitor use. Public health and safety has been and will continue to be a priority,” says the Sierra National Forest in a statement released today.
Currently the reservation system is open for the Spring Cove Campground. The Wishon Boat ramp is also available. Forest crews are currently continuing work in these campgrounds as weather permits.
Due to the number of hazard trees, the following campgrounds on the Bass Lake District will not be available for visitor use in 2017:
- Rock Creek
- Fish Creek
- Mammoth Pool
- Crane Valley
- Placer
Camping or visiting these recreation sites is prohibited by Forest Order (No. 05-15-00-16-14) for the safety of forest visitors (16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a) and (b)).
At this time, the Forks Campground will fill those reservations already confirmed for campgrounds where hazard tree removal efforts are still taking place.
Information on tree mortality can be found by visiting www.fs.usda.gov/main/catreemortality. Please check with our campground operator California Land Management (http://www.clm-services.com), and the campground reservation site (http://recreation.gov) web pages for updated campground information.
For further information regarding the Sierra National Forest and recreational activities please contact the Bass Lake Ranger District in North Fork at 559-877-2218; the High Sierra Ranger District office in Prather at 559-855-5355; or the Forest Supervisors Office in Clovis, Calif. at 559-297-0706, or go online to www.fs.usda.gov/sierra
“It is the Sierra National Forest’s goal to provide a safe and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors.”
The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.
