Sonora, CA…September 14, 2021— The USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region will lift the regional closure order affecting National Forests in California at 11:59 pm on Wednesday, Sept. 15. A key factor in the decision was an anticipated increase in available firefighting resources to California due to fire danger lessening in other areas of the country.

With the Stanislaus National Forest reopening on Thursday, Sept. 16, enhanced fire restrictions will remain in place to reduce the risk of new wildland fires.
 Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited anywhere on the forest including campgrounds, developed areas, and wilderness areas.
 A portable stove or lantern using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel with a shut-off valve, is permissible only with a free California Campfire Permit, available online or in any Forest Service office.
 Lawful hunting is permitted; however, no target shooting is allowed on the forest.
We encourage visitors to follow safety guidelines when visiting the Stanislaus National Forest.
 Plan and prepare — know your route and tell a responsible adult where you are going and when you plan to return.
 Practice Leave No Trace principles — pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your camping area.
 Beware of sudden changes in the weather or changing weather conditions. If you see a thunderstorm approaching, consider leaving the area. Fires started by lightning strikes are common.
 Be careful of parking or driving your car or ATV in tall, dry, vegetation, such as grass. The hot underside of the vehicle can start a fire.
 Check frequently for dragging chains when towing trailers to avoid creating sparks that can cause a fire start.
Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor Jason Kuiken said, “As we reopen the Stanislaus National Forest to visitors,

I want to remind the public that enhanced fire restrictions on the forest are for public and firefighter safety. Thank you for your patience as it will take time to get campgrounds and developed areas open for public enjoyment.”

Other National Forests in California may remain closed or have different fire restrictions. Check the Pacific Southwest Region website for more information on closures, fire restrictions, and for a copy of the Termination of Regional Order No. 21-07.

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is largely in California but is in the Intermountain Region (R4) and is not impacted by the previous closure order.
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