Memorial Day weekend, honoring the heroes who gave their lives in military service to this nation, also marks the start of summer visits to national forests. Some sites with lingering snow, road damage or wet conditions may remain closed. Staff continue to use all available resources to open these areas for the public to safely enjoy.
“We are excited to welcome visitors this Memorial Day weekend,” said Amber Marshall, Public Affairs Officer for the Lassen National Forest. “Before heading out, plan ahead, check access, and review tips to stay safe, on our new forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lassen.”
With temporary closures or delayed openings at some recreation sites, the Lassen National Forest appreciates your patience. Safety is our top priority. Important site information is provided below:
Updated site status and availability for recreation sites, current conditions, and the Park Fire Closure Order with area map are all available on our website. For recreation sites reservations on the Lassen National Forest visit www.recreation.gov/gateways/1066.
Enjoy your visit to Lassen National Forest by following these tips:
Know Before You Go. Check in with local Forest Service offices for closures and alerts www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lassen/alerts. Use our forest website to check for updates on recreation sites at www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lassen.
Water Safety:
- Do not enter cold, rapid water. It may be colder than you realize and 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 often moves faster than it appears.
#RecreateResponsibly | Water Safety
Note your surroundings. Many campgrounds and trails are near lakes and rivers with changing water conditions.
- 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.
- No matter how tempting, do not park your car illegally and block emergency vehicle access.
Pack essentials. Always bring food, water, clothes for changing weather, first aid, lights, navigation aid, and a smartphone (but be prepared for reception to be spotty or unavailable). Hikers, riders and campers – give a detailed travel plan and GPS location upon arrival to someone not on the trip, 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.
Additional Weather and Planning Resources
- Caltrans QuickMap — Current road closures
- Weather Watches, Warnings and Advisories | National Weather Service
- California Office of Emergency Services | Cal OES
For forest happenings, follow the Lassen National Forest Facebook or X, @LassenNF.