July 4th Forest Service Campground Update for Utah

Flooding in Guinavah-Malibu campground June 29, 2011
SALT LAKE CITY, June 30, 2011 – Campgrounds in the five Utah National Forests are expected to be busy over the 4th of July. Most campgrounds have first-come-first serve area available, but they fill up quickly on holidays.

Forest visitors need to adhere to road closure signage or blockades, DO NOT create routes around these closures. This creates an illegal route and damages the resource, and creates a safety hazard for visitors.

Recreation users who plan to take their All Terrain-Vehicles (ATV’s) should contact local Ranger District offices for current information on open roads and trails. Riders should be properly trained and remember to protect the fragile surroundings. Always keep your ATV on designated roads and trails.

Photo of ATV that rolled off a road that was closed due to wet and muddy conditions on the Spanish Fork Ranger District

Higher elevation trails and roads are still wet, muddy and snow covered above 8,000 feet.

When hiking, dress appropriately and be aware of snow bridges and hidden moats on higher elevation trails. Carry extra water, food and take along a coat and matches in case the weather turns bad. Always let someone know where you are hiking and approximately when you will return and never hike alone.

Please keep campfires in the designated fire pits and make sure they are out cold before leaving them unattended. ABSOLUTELY NO FIREWORKS ON NATIONAL FOREST SERVICE SYSTEM LANDS. Have a great holiday on your National Forest and please be safe.

The following is a listing of Forest Service campgrounds that will be open for the Fourth of July holiday:

ASHLEY NATIONAL FOREST (435) 789-1181 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/ashley
Duchesne Ranger District (435) 738-2482
All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Yellowstone, Bridge and Riverview campgrounds which are closed due to flooding. Please call the District for the most current information.

 All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Skull Creek, Red Springs and Spirit Lake which are closed due to standing water and snow.

If staying in a developed campground in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, you are not required to pay the use fee. Day passes are $5.00, 7 day passes are $15.00 and annual passes are $35.00. Passes are available in Manila, Utah and in Evanston, Rock Springs and Green River, Wyoming and local businesses in and around the Flaming Gorge area.

Roosevelt Ranger District (435) 722-5018
 Moon Lake campground is open with water and fees. Please call for the most current information pertaining to all other campgrounds in the Roosevelt Ranger District.

Vernal Ranger District (435) 789-1181
All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Lodgepole campground, which is still closed.

DIXIE NATIONAL FOREST (435) 865-3700 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/dixie

Cedar City Ranger District (435) 865-3200
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Yankee Meadows campground which is open with fees, but no water.

Escalante Ranger District (435) 826-5400
All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Pine Valley Ranger District (435) 652-3100
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Oak Grove campground which will be open with fees but no water all season.

Powell Ranger District (435) 676-9300
All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

FISHLAKE NATIONAL FOREST (435) 896-9233 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/fishlake

Beaver Ranger District (435) 438-2436
All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except LeBaron Lake which is open with fees but no water. Big John Flat will not be open.

Fillmore Ranger District (435) 743-5721
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Oak Creek which will be open with fees and no water.

Fremont Ranger District (435) 836-2811
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Richfield Ranger District (435) 896-9233
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

MANTI-LASAL NATIONAL FOREST (435) 637-2817 or www.fs.fed.us/4/mantilasal

Ferron/Price Ranger District (435) 637-2817 or (435) 384-2372
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees except Flat Canyon campground, which is open but with no water. Trough Spring area will not be open for the weekend. Reeder Canyon Trail is closed.

Moab Ranger District (435) 259-7155
All campgrounds are open fees, but no water.

Monticello Ranger District (435) 587-2041
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

SanPete Ranger District (435) 283-4151
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except 12 Mile which is closed due to snow. Manti Community which will be open with no water but fees will be charged. Maple Canyon campground will be open with fees and does not have a water system. South Skyline Drive is still closed due to snow and 12 Mile Canyon Road is open, but only to the six mile cutoff.

UINTA-WASATCH-CACHE NATIONAL FOREST (801) 236-3400 OR (801) 342-5100 http://fs.usda.gov/uwcnf

Heber-Kamas Ranger District (435) 654-0470 or (435) 783-4338
 Smith Morehouse and the lower loop in Ledgefork campground located along the Weber River drainage are open with water and fees. Ponderosa group, Yellow Pine, Pine Valley group, Soapstone, Shady Dell and Cobble Rest campgrounds located along the Mirror Lake Highway are open with water and fees. Cedar Hollow ATV trail system is open. The Mirror Lake Highway (Utah State Route 150) is open from Kamas to Evanston. Trial Lake, Lily Lake, Lost Lake, Washington Lake, Mirror Lake, Moosehorn, and Butterfly Lake campgrounds, are closed due to snow and Lower Provo and Taylors Fork campgrounds will remain closed due to flooding. Solider Creek, Strawberry Bay, Renegade, Aspen Grove and Current Creek campgrounds are open with water and fees. Lodgepole campground, Loop B is open with water and fees, Loop A is open with fees, but no water. Mill Hollow campground  and reservoir will remain closed due to wet and snowy conditions.

Photo taken on June 23, 2011 of the mud slide on the Farmington Canyon Road

Evanston/Mt. View Ranger District (307) 789-3194 or (307) 782-6555
 East Fork and Bear River campgrounds will be closed, due to flooding. Hayden Fork, Christmas Meadows and Beaver View are open with water and fees. Sulpher campground is open with fees, but no water. The Lilly Lake Dump Station will be CLOSED for the July 4th weekend. Whitney Reservoir is accessible, but use caution, roads and trails are still wet and muddy. Upper Wolverine ATV trail is closed due to flooding. The North Slope road is open to Mckenzie Creek, approximately7 1/2 miles from the Mirror Lake Highway. East Fork of the Bear is open and accessible. The Bear River Ranger Station located on the Mirror Lake Highway is open Thursday through Monday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (435) 642-6662.

Visitors parked or camping along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway must display a fee pass. 3 Day passes are $6.00, 7-day passes are $12.00 and annual passes are $45.00. Passes can be purchased at Forest Service Offices in Kamas, Utah, Evanston, Wyoming and local business in Kamas and Evanston. These passes are also valid in the American Fork Canyon area.

Little Lyman and Stateline campgrounds are open with fees, but no water. Meeks Cabin, Bridger, Marsh and Hoop Lake campgrounds are open with water and fees. Deadhorse ATV trail is open and accessible. Henry’s Fork is accessible to Henry’s Fork Basin, approximately 5 ½ miles from the trailhead, beyond the basin there is standing water and snow and the river is running extremely high.

From Gunsight Pass into Kings Peak will require snowshoes.

Pleasant Grove Ranger District (801) 785-3563
Little Mill campground is open with a fee, but no water. Granite Flat, Mt. Timpanogos and Hope campgrounds are open with water and fees. The majority of the units in Timpooneke campground are open. Altamont and Theater-in-the Pines group sites are open. Rock Canyon campground is closed due to an avalanche. The Silver Lake Flat Road is open to the trailhead. Squaw Peak Road is open approximately 2.5 miles past Hope campground. Mineral Basin, Shaffer, Timpooneke and the North Fork of American Fork Canyon are closed, due to wet and muddy conditions. Cascade Springs is accessible from the Solider Hollow/Midway side ONLY.

A recreation pass is required for the American Fork Canyon-Alpine Scenic Loop area and is available at local Forest Service offices or at the entrance stations to the Scenic Loop. The special use fee is $6.00 for a three-day pass per vehicle, $12.00 for a 7 day pass and $45.00 for the annual pass. These passes are also valid in the Mirror Lake Area.

Spanish Fork Ranger District (801) 798-3571:
All campgrounds are open with water and fees. Maple Bench and Maple Lake campgrounds will be closed through mid-summer due to campground renovation and construction. The Mona Pole road is closed due to snow. The Nebo Loop road is open on the north side to Blackhawk campground and is open on the south side to the junction with Salt Creek Road, while construction crews are repairing the Red Creek slump. Santaquin Canyon road is open from Santaquin to the Nebo Loop Road.

Ogden Ranger District (801) 625-5306
 All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Jefferson Hunt, due to flooding, and Monte Cristo, due to snow. No ATV trails are accessible on the Ogden Ranger District. All trails within the Wheeler Creek Complex will be open on July 1, 2011.

Logan Ranger District (435) 755-3620
 Box Elder, Spring Hollow, Lodge, and Sunrise campgrounds are open with water and fees. Lewis M. Turner, Friendship and Spring campgrounds are open with fees, but no water. Tony Grove campground is closed due to snow. High Creek, Cowley Canyon/Herd Hollow, West Hodges, Temple Fork, Smithfield Canyon, Millville Peak, Twin Creek, Temple Fork, Dip Hollow-Long Hollow, Marie Springs and Left Hand Fork 4X4 roads are all closed. Worm Fence ATV trail area also closed. All higher elevation roads are still closed due to snow, wet, and muddy conditions. Please contact the Logan Ranger District office for the most current information pertaining to what roads and trails are open.

Salt Lake Ranger District (801) 466-6411Jordan Pines, Spruces and Tanners Flat campgrounds are open with water and fees. Silver Lake Visitor Center is open and only half of the boardwalk is accessible. Little Cottonwood Creek Trail is closed. Redman and Albion Basin campgrounds are closed due to snow. All picnic areas are open with fees. Intake, Cottonwood and Boy Scout campgrounds in South Willow Canyon are open with fees, but no water. Medina Flat picnic area is also open. South Willow Canyon is still closed just above the Boy Scout campground. Lower and Upper Narrow and Loop campgrounds are closed. Ward Canyon Road is open to the intersection with Skyline Drive and Sessions roads. Skyline and Sessions roads will remain closed until conditions support opening them. Farmington Canyon road remains closed due to a major rock slide and may not be accessible until mid to late July. Hikers need to be extra cautious while hiking on higher elevations trails in Mill Creek, and Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, due to wet and muddy conditions.

Remember Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are Salt Lake City Municipal Watersheds and dogs are not allowed in these canyons.

Construction begins at Starvation State Park

Duchesne – The Beach Campground and day-use area at Starvation State Park will close for renovation for the season beginning July 26. The boat ramp remains open, and access to camping and day-use is available at Mountain View Campground, Knight Hollow, Juniper Point, Indian Bay and Rabbit Gulch.

When the park reopens next season, it will offer campsites with water and power hookups, new restrooms, a new pavilion, and improved day-use area. This renovation project is a joint effort between the USDI Bureau of Reclamation and Utah State Parks and Recreation.

For more information, please call (435) 738-2326.

July 4th Campground Update

SALT LAKE CITY, June 25, 2010 – Campgrounds on the five Utah national forests are expected to be busy over the 4th of July. You can make reservations for a USDA Forest Service campground by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777. Most campgrounds have first-come-first serve area available, but they fill up quickly on holidays

Recreation users who plan to take their All Terrain-Vehicles (ATV’s) should contact local Ranger District offices for current information on open roads and trails. Riders should be properly trained and remember to protect the fragile surroundings. Always keep your ATV on designated roads and trails.

If you are planning to use livestock (horses, mules etc.) on National Forest System lands, remember that you are permitted to use only certified weed free straw, hay or pellets. Each bale and container must be tagged or marked as Weed Free, or the individual must have original and current evidence of Weed Free certification present. In addition, all markings must meet State and/or County standards for certification as Weed Free.

Higher elevation trails and roads are still wet, muddy and snow covered above 9,500 feet. For current road, trail and campground conditions please call the USDA Forest Service Office that manages the area you are planning to visit.

Please keep campfires in the designated fire pits and make sure they are out cold before leaving them unattended.

ABSOLUTELY NO FIREWORKS ON PUBLIC LANDS.

When hiking, always carry extra water, food; take along a coat and matches in case the weather turns bad.

Always let someone know where you are hiking and approximately when you will return and never hike alone.

Have a great holiday on your National Forest and please be safe. The following is a listing of USDA Forest

Service campgrounds that will be open for the Fourth of July holiday:


ASHLEY NATIONAL FOREST (435) 789-1181 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/ashley
Duchesne Ranger District (435) 738-2482: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Flaming Gorge Ranger District (435) 784-3445: All campgrounds are open with water and fees. If staying in a developed campground in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, you are not required to pay the use fee. Day passes are $5.00, 7 day passes are $15.00 and annual passes are $35.00. Passes are available in Manila Utah and in Evanston, Rock Springs and Green River Wyoming and local businesses in and around the Flaming Gorge area.

Roosevelt Ranger District (435) 722-5018: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Vernal Ranger District (435) 789-1181: All campgrounds are open with water and fees. Lodgepole Campground will be open with fees, but with no water or electricity, self contained recreational outfits only.


DIXIE NATIONAL FOREST (435) 865-3700 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/dixie
Cedar City Ranger District (435) 865-3200: All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Yankee

Meadows campground which is open with fees, but no water. Cascade Falls is closed due to construction, but may be open by the end of July.

Escalante Ranger District (435) 826-5400: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Pine Valley Ranger District (435) 652-3100: All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Oak Grove campground which will be open with fees but no water all season. PLEASE MAKE SURE ALL CAMPFIRES ARE OUT AND COLD TO THE TOUCH. ABSOLUTELY NO FIREWORKS ON PUBLIC LANDS.

Powell Ranger District (435) 676-9300: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

FISHLAKE NATIONAL FOREST (435) 896-9233 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/fishlake
Beaver Ranger District (435) 438-2436: All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except, LeBaron Lake which is open, but does not have water. Big John Flat will not be open.

Fillmore Ranger District (435) 743-4113: All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except Oak Creek which will be open with fees and no water.

Fremont Ranger District (435) 836-2811: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Richfield Ranger District (435) 896-9233: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

MANTI-LASAL NATIONAL FOREST (435) 637-2817 or www.fs.fed.us/4/mantilasal
Ferron/Price Ranger District (435) 637-2817 or (435) 384-2372: All campgrounds are open with water and fees except Flat Canyon campground, which is open but with no water. Trough Spring area will not be open for the weekend. Reeder Canyon Trail is closed. Residual smoke from the West Schofield Prescribed Fire is still visible.

Moab Ranger District (435) 259-7155: All campgrounds are open with water and fees

Monticello Ranger District (435) 587-2041: All campgrounds are open with water and fees. REMEMBER NO FIREWORKS ON PUBLIC LANDS.

SanPete Ranger District (435) 283-4151: All campgrounds are open with water and fees, except 12 Mile and Manti Community which will be open with no water but fees will be charged. Maple Canyon campground will be open with fees and does not have a water system. South Skyline Drive is still closed due to snow and 12 Mile Canyon Road is closed due to slide activity and slumping at the switchbacks.

UINTA-WASATCH-CACHE NATIONAL FOREST (801) 236-3400 OR (801) 342-5100
http://fs.usda.gov/uwcnf
Heber-Kamas Ranger District (435) 654-0470 or (435) 783-4338: All campgrounds located on the Mirror Lake Highway will be open with water and fees, except Trial Lake, Lily Lake, Lost Lake, Mirror Lake, Moosehorn, and Butterfly Lake campgrounds, which are closed due to snow and Lower Provo and Taylors Fork which will remain closed due to flooding. The lower loop in Mill Hollow campground is open with water and fees, Wolf Creek campground located along Wolf Creek Pass may not be open in time for the 4th of July weekend. Smith and Morehouse campground is open with water and fees, Ledgefork campground will be closed due to flood damage and may not be open for the 4th of July weekend.

Evanston/Mt. View Ranger District (307) 789-3194 or (307) 782-6555: All campgrounds are open with water and fees. The Lilly Lake Dump Station will be CLOSED for the July 4th weekend. Whitney Reservoir is accessible, but the public needs to use caution, roads and trails are still wet and muddy. The Bear River Ranger Station located on the Mirror Lake Highway is open 7 days a week, Sunday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Hours on Friday and Saturdays are from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (435) 642-6662.

Visitors parked or camping along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway must display a fee pass. 3 Day passes are $6.00, 7-day passes are $12.00 and annual passes are $45.00. Passes can be purchased at USDA Forest Service

Offices in Kamas Utah, Evanston Wyoming and local business in Kamas and Evanston. These passes are also valid in the American Fork Canyon area.

Pleasant Grove Ranger District (801) 785-3563: All campgrounds are open with water and fees. The Silver Lake Flat Road is closed at the Silver Lake trailhead due to flood damage. A recreation pass is required for the American Fork Canyon-Alpine Scenic Loop area and is available at local Forest Service offices or at the entrance stations to the Scenic Loop. The special use fee is $6.00 for a three-day pass per vehicle, $12.00 for a 7 day pass and $45.00 for the annual pass. These passes are also valid in the Mirror Lake Area.

Spanish Fork Ranger District (801) 798-3571: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Ogden Ranger District (801) 625-5306: All campgrounds are open with water and fees.

Logan Ranger District (435) 755-3620: All campgrounds are open with fees and some with water. Tony Grove campground is now open with fees, but no water and some units still have snow.

Salt Lake Ranger District (801) 466-6411: All campgrounds and picnic areas located in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are open with fees and most with water, except Albion Basin campground and the road leading into Albion Basin, will remain closed during the 4th of July weekend due to snow. Remember Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are Salt Lake City Municipal Watersheds and dogs are not allowed in these canyons.

Sunset and Bountiful Peak campgrounds are now open with water and fees. The Skyline Drive in Davis County between Ward Canyon and Farmington Canyon still has snow drifts, which continues to restrict travel. The South Willow Canyon Road located on the Stansbury Mountain Range in Tooele County will remain closed just above the Boy Scout campground due to flood damage until possibly mid to late July. Lower Narrows, Upper Narrows and Loop campgrounds will also remain closed until South Willow Canyon Road has been repaired. Cottonwood, Intake and Boy Scout campgrounds located along the lower portion of the South Willow Canyon Road are open with fees and no water.

Update on High Waters in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forests

SALT LAKE CITY, June 11, 2010 – Areas on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest still affected by high water include Little Cottonwood Canyon, American Fork Canyon, North Slope of the High Uintas, Mirror Lake Highway, Stansbury Mountain Range and the Weber River area near Kamas.

Forest visitors need adhere to road closure signage or blockades. Travelers should not attempt to cross roads where water is flowing across. Visitors should use extreme caution when recreating around fast moving streams or rivers. Also, parents should keep children and pets close-by and insure they understand the dangers of fast moving water.

There are a limited number of campgrounds, picnic areas trails and roads that are under emergency closures to protect public health and safety due to the high water and run-off.

These are:

Salt Lake Ranger District:
 Little Cottonwood Creek Trail – Closed
 Upper Narrows and Lower Narrows Loop Campgrounds, South Willow Canyon, Stansbury Mountains – Closed
 South Willow Canyon Road from Boy Scout Campground to Loop Campground - Closed

Pleasant Grove Ranger District:
 Sawmill Picnic Area, American Fork Canyon – Closed
 Mineral Basin Road closed just above Baker Fork in American Fork Canyon – Closed
 Portions of the trail around Tibble Fork Reservoir are still impassable due to water.

Heber-Kamas Ranger District:
 Ledgefork Campground, Weber River Area near Kamas – Closed
 Lower Provo River Campground, Mirror Lake Highway – Closed
 Soapstone Campground, Mirror Lake Highway – the lower loop is Closed

Evanston/Mt. View Ranger District:
 Bear River Campground, North Slope of Uintas – Closed
 West Fork of the Bear, North Slope of the Uintas -Closed
 East Fork of the Blacks Fork going to Hewinta - Closed
 East Fork of the Blacks Fork, south of Uinta Junction, North Slope of the Uintas – Closed to Sedans
 Bridger Lake Campground, North Slope of Uintas – Closed
 West Marsh Lake Campground, North Slope of Uintas - Closed
 Hoop Lake Campground, North Slope of Uintas - Closed
 Access road to Hoop Lake Campground, North Slope of the Uintas - Closed
 The Middle Beaver Creek Road to West Beaver Creek on the North Slope of the Uintas - Closed

Information on emergency closures will be updated as information becomes available. Forinformation on the North Slope road closures, contact the Evanston-Mt. View Ranger District at307-789-3194 or 307-782-6555.

Please note: The US Forest Service is responsible for managing National Forest System (NFS) roads. Closures on state or county roads crossing NFS lands are managed by their respective jurisdictions.

For information on specific campground closures, contact campground concessionaire American Land & Leisure at (801) 226-3564.

High Water Impacts Forest Roads and Facilities-- Officials Urge Caution

SALT LAKE CITY, June 7, 2010 – Triggered by rapid snowmelt, swift and high water in streams and rivers are impacting localized roads and recreational areas on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Areas and roads inundated by water have been temporarily closed off to the public. In camping facilities with flooding, campers have been relocated to higher ground. Forest crews are working to manage water flows and mitigate impacts.

Areas affected by swift, high water include Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons, American Fork Canyon, North Slope of the High Uintas, Mirror Lake Highway, Stansbury Mountains, and Weber River area near Kamas.

A Forestwide assessment of the impacts is underway. More information will be provided as it becomes available. In the interim, Forest officials emphasize for their own safety that visitors adhere to road closure signage or blockades. Travelers should not attempt to cross roads where water is flowing across. Visitors should use extreme caution when recreating around fast moving streams or rivers. Also, parents should keep children close-by and insure they understand the dangers of fast moving water.

In the affected areas, a limited number of campgrounds, picnic areas and trailheads are under emergency closures to protect public health and safety due to the high water and run-off. Currently, these are:

Ledgemere Picnic area, Big Cottonwood Canyon – Closed

Temple Quarry Trailhead, Little Cottonwood Canyon – Closed

Upper Narrows, Lower Narrows and Loop Campgrounds, South Willow Canyon, Stansbury Mountains – Closed

Little Mill Picnic Area and Campground, American Fork Canyon – Partially Closed

Mile Rock Picnic Area, American Fork – Closed

Ledgefork Campground, Weber River Area near Kamas – partially closed

Lower Provo River Campground, Mirror Lake Highway – Closed

For information on specific campground closures, contact campground concessionaire American Land & Leisure at (801) 226-3564.

Forest roads under emergency closure include:

East Fork of the Black Fork, south of Uinta Junction, North Slope of the Uintas

Access road to Hoop Lake Campground, North Slope of the Uintas

North Slope Road at West Beaver cross, North Slope of the Uintas

Information on emergency closures will be updated as information becomes available. For information on the North Slope road closures, contact the Evanston-Mt. View Ranger District at 307-789-3194 or 307-782-6555. Please note: The US Forest Service is responsible for managing National Forest System (NFS) roads. Closures on state or county roads crossing NFS lands are managed by their respective jurisdictions.

Spring brings hazardous Conditions to Forest

SALT LAKE CITY, May 25, 2010 – Spring is a great time to visit Utah’s backcountry and wilderness areas. Residents and visitors can take advantage of the recreation opportunities available on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, which is within a short drive of urban population centers. Forest officials are advising visitors to use extra caution for the next several weeks while recreating on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This year’s wet spring has resulted in numerous hazards across the Forest. Important visitor safety guidelines are listed below:

Parents: watch your children and pets – swift water is a natural but potentially deadly magnet for curious youngsters and pets

Don't wade across cold, swift water – fast-moving water can be deceivingly dangerous especially anglers

Stay off unstable stream banks – added weight can unexpectedly cause them to collapse

Avoid walking on iced-over lakes and streams – rapidly thinning ice may be hidden by a layer of snow

Be aware of wet soils on steep slopes – may produce falling rocks that are dangerous for both hikers and vehicles

Watch out for weakening snow bridges – especially a concern for snowmobilers at stream crossings

Stay out of avalanche-prone areas – avalanche hazards remain considerable in many areas

In addition to hazards to humans, the wet weather has created potentially damaging conditions for forest resources. Trails and roads are particularly vulnerable. To protect at-risk roads and trails from unnecessary rutting and erosion, wheeled-vehicles and horses are prohibited on many Forest roads. Please call your local Ranger District for details.

As the ground begins to thaw and rain and melting snow saturate the ground hiking trails become especially muddy. Keep these considerations in mind:

Trailheads maybe dry, but you may run in to increasing mud and snow the higher you climb.

Never hike alone, if you have a cell phone take it with you.

Always let someone know where you are going and when you will return

Wear the Proper Clothing

Always Pack Food and water

Always Carry a First Aid Kit

With spring in Utah outdoor enthusiasts, traveling in the canyons this time of year could result in an unpleasant encounter with these hungry hitchhikers. Moisture from spring rains and snowmelt creates perfect living conditions for ticks.

Avoid areas where ticks and their food sources are abundant, i.e., grassy and bushy areas along the edges of woodlands and fields, from March to mid-July.

Use tick repellant on clothing to provide for protection for the amount of time you are outdoors.

Keep ticks off your skin. Wear long pants and tuck your pants into your socks to keep ticks off your skin. Light colored clothing will help you spot ticks more easily.

Check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks daily.

Forest Service Campground Status and Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend

Salt Lake City, May 25, 2010 - This Memorial Day weekend promises to be the first of many busy weekends on the national forests of Utah.

Most, lower elevation campgrounds are open throughout the state. Higher elevation campgrounds, roads and trails may still be snow covered or muddy, so to protect natural resources, please be careful and only drive or camp on dry, solid surfaces. Most backcountry hiking and camping is very limited.

Safety is always a concern. Rivers, streams and creeks are running very high and fast and are extremely dangerous, so please be very careful and keep a watchful eye on children while recreating in these areas.

As ice and snow melt off the mountain sides, please be aware of rocks that are dislodged and roll onto roadways. Off-Highway vehicle users are reminded to ride only where permitted. Remember to always be a responsible rider.

A closure is in effect prohibiting the use, possessing or storage of any firewood containing nails, screws, or other metal hardware, including but not limited to wood pallets and/or construction debris. As always please be careful with fire and always make sure campfires are dead out before leaving the campsite. Most importantly, enjoy your national forests!

Below is a list of Forest Service campground that may be open for the Memorial Day weekend.

Ashley National Forest (435) 789-1181 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/ashley
Vernal Ranger District (435) 789-1181:
Please call the Vernal Ranger District for information pertaining to the status of campgrounds, roads and trails.

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area (435) 784-3445:
 All campgrounds are open with fees except Lodgepole and Spirit Lake campgrounds. If you are planning to visit high altitude campgrounds please call for up to date information as late season snow storms are common. Visitors using the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area will have to pay a use fee. Day passes are $5.00, 7 day passes are $15.00 and annual passes are $35.00. Passes are available in Manila Utah, Rock Springs and Green River Wyoming and local businesses in and around the Flaming Gorge area. If you are staying in a developed campground in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area you are not required to pay the use fee.

Duchesne/Roosevelt Ranger Districts (435) 738-2482: 
All campgrounds are expected to be open with fees by Memorial Day, with the exceptions of Pole Creek (10,300 feet) and Avintaquin (9,200 feet). The very top of Blind Stream Pass (10,500 feet between Hanna and Rock Creek on the Rock Creek side) is usually the last snow to melt in the area. The Hells Canyon Road is snow covered until you come to Mill and Center Parks where there will be wet and muddy conditions. Reservation Ridge will be very slippery if it either rains or snows. Please call for detailed information about a specific campground.


Dixie National Forest (435) 865-3700 or www.fs.fed.us/r4/dixie
Pine Valley Ranger District (435) 688-3246:
All campgrounds will be open with fees. For the most current information about these campgrounds call the St. George Interagency Office at: (435) 688-324. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Cedar City Ranger District (435) 865-3200/3700:
All campgrounds and picnic areas will be open with fees for Memorial Day weekend, except the campgrounds in the Navajo Lake Basin that includes the Spruces, Navaho Lake and TE-AH. Cedar Canyon campground may be open depending on snow melt. Please call the Cedar City Ranger District for the most recent information
Powell Ranger District (435) 676-9300:
Red Canyon campground will be open with all available amenities. King Creek campground is open year round for dry camping and is typically open with all available amenities around mid May, but can be affected by weather conditions especially the cold. Please call the District office for current information.

Escalante Ranger District (435)-826-5400:
All campgrounds will be open with fees and water. Please call the Escalante Ranger District or the Visitors Center for the most recent information. The Visitors Center is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (435)-826-5499


Fishlake National Forest (435) 896-9233 www.fs.fed.us/r4/fishlake
Beaver Ranger District (435) 438-2436:
Little Cottonwood, Mahogany Cove, Little Reservoir campgrounds, and Ponderosa picnic area will be open with water and fees. Kent’s

Lake, Anderson Meadow and LeBaron campgrounds will not be accessible due to above average snowpack and cooler than normal spring conditions. City Creek campground will be open with water and no fees. All roads and trail access above 8,500 feet will be minimal. Forest Road 113 and Forest Road 137 are gated and closed to minimize damage until surfaces are dry. For current conditions contact the Beaver Ranger District.

Fillmore Ranger District (435) 743-5721:
Maple Grove, Oak Creek and Adelaide campgrounds will be open with water and fees. Maple Hollow campground will be open with no water and no fee. Roads and trails at higher elevations are closed due to snow and wet muddy conditions. Please contact the Fillmore Ranger District office for updates on road conditions.

Fremont River Ranger District (435) 836-2800:
Bowery Creek, Doctor Creek, Mackinaw, Sunglow, Pleasant Creek, Singletree, Oak Creek and Lower Bowns campgrounds will be open with water and fees. Twin Creeks picnic area will also be open with water and fees. Please call the Fremont River Ranger District Office for the most current and up to date information.

Richfield Ranger District (435) 896-9233:
Gooseberry campground and Monrovian picnic area will be open for the holiday weekend. The Sevenmile-Gooseberry road #640 will be under construction from Cold Springs to the Gates Lake Road all summer, expect delays.

All higher elevation campgrounds, roads and trails on the Fishlake National Forest are closed due to wet/muddy conditions. REMINDER – Trails above 8500 feet will likely be wet and muddy, especially on north facing sides.

Manti-LaSal National Forest (435) 637-2817 www.fs.fed.us/4/mantilasal
Price (435) 637-2817 and Ferron Ranger District (435) 384-2372:
All campsites throughout Huntington Canyon will be open. Those traditionally with water will have water available.

Joes Valley Complex will be open with water. This includes the campground, group pavilion, boat ramps and marina. Stuart Visitor Center will be open. Fish Creek Campground and trailhead will be open with no water. Indian Creek campground will be open with no water.

Higher elevations roads and trails are closed due to wet/muddy conditions and snow.

Sanpete Ranger District (435) 283-4151:
Lake Hill and Manti Community campgrounds are open with water and fees. Maple Canyon, Twin Reservoir and Chicken Creek campgrounds, and Spring City picnic area are open with fees and no water. 12 Mile campground is closed due to snow. All higher elevations roads and trails are not yet accessible, due to snow.

Moab Ranger District (435) 259-7155:
Warner Lake and Oowah Lake campgrounds maybe open for the weekend, but please call the Moab Ranger District office for the current status of these two campgrounds. Buckeye Reservoir campground will be closed for the 2010 season due to construction.

Monticello Ranger District (435) 587-2041:
All campgrounds are open with water and fees. Higher elevations roads and trails are closed due to wet/muddy conditions and snow.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest (801) 236-3400 or (801) 342-5100 www.fs.fed.us/r4/uwc
Pleasant Grove Ranger District (801) 785-3563:
Granite Flat, Hope and Little Mill campgrounds are open with fees, but no water. Rock Canyon campground will be closed due to construction on the road leading into the campground. Timpooneke, Altamont, Mt. Timpanogos and Theater-in-Pine campgrounds are closed due to snow. The Alpine Scenic Loop (USR 92) will not be open for the weekend. Tibble Fork road is open to Tibble Fork Reservoir. Silver Lake Flat road is closed. The North Fork road is closed at the bridge ½ mile up from Tibble Fork. NO TRAILERS will be allowed as there limited turn around space. The Squaw Creek road is open to Hope campground and is closed beyond that. Trails in American Fork Canyon are closed to bicycles, motorized vehicles and livestock until they are dry enough to prevent resource damage. A recreation pass is required for the American Fork Canyon-Alpine Scenic Loop area and is available at Forest Service offices or at the entrance stations to the Scenic Loop. The special use fee is $6.00 for a one three-day pass per vehicle, $12.00 for a 7 day pass and $45.00 for the annual pass.

Spanish Fork Ranger District (801) 798-3571:
Balsam, Cherry, Diamond, Whiting, Maple Lake and Maple Bench campgrounds are open with water and fees. Payson Lakes and Blackhawk campgrounds will be open with fees, but no water. The south side of the Nebo Loop will be open for the Memorial Day weekend to allow access into Bear Canyon and Cottonwood (no water or fees) and Ponderosa (with fees and water) campgrounds. Tinney Flat campground will be closed due to an avalanche blocking access in Santaquin Canyon. The Monks Hollow ATV Trail system is open. Higher elevation roads and trails are currently closed and will be open as snow and trail conditions permit.

Logan Ranger District (435) 755-3620:
All campgrounds and picnic areas will be open with fees, except Tony Grove, Red Banks and Sunrise, which may remain closed due to snow. Most forest roads and trails are snow covered and muddy and are not accessible. Franklin Basin, Millville, Sinks and Temple Fork roads are closed until further notice due to construction, and to prevent resource damage. For current information please call the Logan District office.

Ogden Ranger District (801) 625-5306:
All campgrounds are open with fees and water, except Monte Cristo, which will be closed due to snow. For information pertaining to Utah Highway SR 39 over Monte Cristo, please call Utah Department of Transportation at 511. Roads and trails are muddy and at higher elevations snow packed. Please TREAD LIGHTLY and avoid traveling on roads when muddy.

Salt Lake Ranger District (801) 466-6411:
Tanners Flat campground in Little Cottonwood Canyon will be open with fees. Spruces campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon will be open with water and fees. The group sites in Spruces and Jordan Pine will be closed due to snow. Moss Ledge, Storm Mountain, Ledgemere, Birches and Dogwood picnic areas in Big Cottonwood Canyon will be open with fees and no water. In Millcreek Canyon, Box Elder, Churchfork, Terraces and Maple Grove picnic area will be open. Albion Basin in Little Cottonwood Canyon and Redman campgrounds in Big Cottonwood Canyon will be closed due to snow. Remember Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are Salt Lake City Municipal Watersheds and dogs are not allowed in these canyons. Any picnic area or campground that is gated or posted closed is not legal to use.

Mueller Park picnic area in Davis County will be open with water and fees. Fernwood picnic area in Layton will be open with water and no fee.

Cottonwood, Intake, Boy Scout, Upper and Lower Narrow campgrounds in South Willow Canyon (Stansbury Mountains, west of Tooele and Grantsville) are open with fees. Loop campground and the trail leading into the Deseret Peak Wilderness will be closed due to snow.

Heber-Kamas Ranger District (435) 654-0470 or (435) 783-4338:
Aspen Grove, Currant Creek, Lodgepole, Renegade, Soldier Creek and Strawberry campgrounds will all be open with water and fees. The Strawberry Visitor Center is open 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The boat docks will all be in at the boat ramps by Memorial Day Weekend. Boaters are urged to use caution and be aware of floating debris and submerged land structures in all lakes and reservoirs. Mill Hollow and Wolf Creek campgrounds are closed due to snow. Wolf Creek Pass (Utah SR 35) is not open at this time, please contact Utah Department of

Transportation at 511. The Mirror Lake Highway (Utah SR 150) is open to mile marker 14 (turn off to Soapstone Basin). You may call Utah Department of Transportation at 511 for current conditions on the Mirror Lake Highway. Ponderosa and Pine Valley group sites (reservation only) campgrounds are open with water and fees Lower Provo, Shady Dell and Soapstone will be open with water and fees, Yellow Pine campground will be open with no water but a fee will be charged. Smith-Morehouse campground located in Weber River Canyon drainage will be open with water and fees. Cedar Hollow, Upper Setting and Norway Flat roads have limited accessibility. All roads and trails above 8,000 feet are muddy and or snow packed. Plants and vegetation can be damaged permanently in the spring by pulling trailers and trucks into wet and muddy areas to camp. Please TREAD LIGHTLY and avoid muddy roads to keep them from becoming permanently damaged and rutted. Visitors parked or camping along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway must display a fee pass. Three day passes are $6.00, seven day passes are $12.00, and annual passes are $45.00. Passes can be purchased at the Kamas Work Center, Evanston Ranger District, and local businesses in Kamas, Utah and Evanston, Wyoming.

Evanston/Mountain View Ranger Districts (307) 789-3194 or (307) 782-6555:
The Bear River Ranger Station will be open starting, Friday, May 28, 2010. The ranger station will be open Thursdays through Mondays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the first few weeks of the season. The Mirror Lake Highway, (Utah State Road 150) is open to the Stillwater campground. Stillwater, East Fork, and Bear River campgrounds will be open with fees, but no water. Whitney Reservoir is closed. The North Slope road is open to Deadman Creek only. Bridger Lake, Marsh Lake, Stateline and Hoop Lake campgrounds are wet and muddy, but accessible. They are open with no water, but fees will be charged. Higher elevation campgrounds, roads, and trails are closed due to snow. Visitors parked or camping along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway must display a fee pass. 1-3 Day passes are $6.00, 7-day passes are $12.00 and annual passes are $45.00. Passes can be purchased at Forest Service Offices in Kamas, Utah; Evanston, Wyoming; local business in Kamas, and the Bear River Lodge.

As more people recreate in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, keeping a clean campsite is becoming more important for outdoor visitors to ensure the health and safety of both visitors and wildlife. Following these tips will help visitors enjoy a rewarding recreation experience.

Never leave food out, including pet food. Keep food and coolers in your car and or Rv’s

Sweep your eating area clean of debris

Don’t put garbage and uneaten food in fire pits and dispose of your garbage daily

Pack out your garbage if there is not dumpster available

Always make sure your cooking utensils are clean and stored away

Never eat or store food in your tent. When you get ready to turn in for the night, make sure you don't forget any snacks you had out on the table or by the fire.

If you are planning to use livestock on National Forest lands, remember that you are permitted to use only certified weed free straw, hay or pellets.

When hiking, always carry extra water and food and take along a coat and something to make a fire with, just in case you get stuck on the mountain for the night and in case the weather turns bad. Always, let someone know where you are hiking and approximately what time you will return and don’t hike alone.

Before heading out for the holiday weekend please check with the local Ranger District offices for the most current and up-to-date information concerning the area you are planning to visit.

Big Rock and Rivers Edge Campgrounds open at East Canyon State Park

Morgan – The newly renovated Big Rock and Rivers Edge campgrounds at East Canyon State Park are now open.

Big Rock campground is located on the shore of East Canyon Reservoir. All sites can accommodate RVs and tents, however, no utility hookups are offered. The day-use area provides eight cabanas with picnic tables and fire pits. Camping fees are $12 per site, per night.

Rivers Edge is a large group area that can accommodate up to 100 people. This site includes a large pavilion with grills, picnic tables, and fire pit. No drinking water is available. The cost is $100 per day.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call 800-322-3770 or visit http://www.stateparks.utah.gov/

Water Available at Little Sahara Campgrounds

Fillmore, Utah— The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Little Sahara Recreation Area (LSRA) would like to inform the public that the water supply at the LSRA campgrounds will be turned on Friday, April 2, 2010, just in time for those who are planning on visiting LSRA during the Easter weekend.
The Little Sahara Recreation Area Visitor Center summer hours beginning on April 1 through October 17, 2010 are as follows:

Little Sahara Visitor Center Hours of Operation
Sunday: 8:00 a.m. thru 4:00 p.m.
Monday: 8:00 a.m. thru 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 8:00 a.m. thru 4:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. thru 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. thru 9:00 p.m.

Visitor Center and Pay Booth will be open for extended hours as needed throughout the season.
For more information about LSRA, call 435.433.5960 or 435.743.3100 or visit their web page at:
http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/fillmore/recreation/special_recreation/little_sahara_recreation.html

Changes set for Camping Reservations at Utah State Parks

Salt Lake City – New this spring, the Utah State Parks Reservation Office has two new major policies affecting customers planning to make reservations for camping, pavilions or boat slips.

First, only major credit cards are accepted for camping and other types of reservations. Cash and checks are no longer accepted.

Second, all reservation customers are asked to set up a Utah State Parks camper profile by visiting stateparks.utah.gov and clicking on Internet Reservations. Establishing a profile provides faster and better service for future reservations, as well as providing information for Utah State Parks in the event of an emergency. All campers, including those who are planning to camp on a first-come, first-served basis, must create a profile.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call (801) 322-3770 within the Salt Lake calling area, toll-free (800) 322-3770, or visit http://www.stateparks.utah.gov/ .

Utah State Parks sees Improvements to Online Reservation System

Salt Lake City -- Beginning January 2010, Utah State Parks offers a new online reservation system featuring updated site descriptions, campground maps, high quality park photos and the ability to transfer and cancel reservations.

“We are excited about the new system and upgraded features,” commented Utah State Parks Reservation Manager Emily Hearndon. “Using our customers’ suggestions, we made the online reservations site more informative and functional. The call center still offers the same great service, but now offers customers more options.”

In addition to the new system, the reservation cancellation policy has been improved. Customers may now cancel a reservation up to four days in advance, instead of seven days, giving customers more flexibility. Cancellations made four or more days in advance of the scheduled arrival date (14 days for group sites) will receive a refund less the non-refundable reservation fee and a $5 cancellation fee. Cancellations made less than four days in advance (14 days for group sites) will receive a refund less then non-refundable reservation fee, $5 cancellation fee and first night camping fee.

The reservation office will be closed January 1 to 19 to implement the new system. No new inventory will open during this time. Reservations for April 29 through May 26 can be made beginning January 28 at 7 a.m.

To make a reservation or for more information, please visit http://www.stateparks.utah.gov/  or call 800-322-3770.