Pinecrest Lake
Sierra Sun Times file photo

June 12, 2020 - SONORA, Calif., – The Stanislaus National Forest announced that many developed recreation sites will reopen for visitors June 12, 2020.

Forest order STF-16-2020-15 identifies 19 campgrounds that will reopen June 12, in addition to those day use sites that are already open. A copy of the forest order will be posted on the Stanislaus National Forest web page as soon as it is available.

The Forest Service is working with county and local partners to reopen developed recreation sites, but Forest Supervisor Jason Kuiken urged visitors to expect a different experience due social distancing and the CDC guidelines for health and safety. “Employee and public safety remains our number one priority, and we will closely monitor the situation and make changes accordingly. However, please be prepared to be self-reliant by bringing your own soap, hand sanitizer, toilet tissue and drinking water,” he said. “The list of excepted sites is only the first of many updates, as we continue preparing other sites for public use. We will keep the list updated on our web page for easy reference.”

Trash removal is very limited, so please pack out all trash and waste. Not every campground will open June 12, and visitors should be prepared for a different camping experience than in previous years. Some campsites may be closed and there may be other social distancing measures in place.

Many of the campgrounds that are opening June 12 are concessionaire operations, Kuiken said. “I’m glad our concessionaire partners are the first to reopen. All our neighboring communities have been impacted, and it’s good to see some small businesses able to reopen.”

Groveland Ranger District

Summit Ranger District

Calaveras Ranger District