Vallejo, CA…This Monday, Memorial Day, as we honor all the heroes who gave their lives in military service to this nation, the USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region would also like to remind all visitors to plan ahead before visiting one of our 18 National Forests in California. Please recreate responsibly, including packing out your trash, use good social distancing when in crowded areas, and only park in designated areas.

As the unofficial start to summer, Americans everywhere are eager to get outside onto their public lands this Memorial Day weekend. We anticipate that this summer will be very busy and we would like all visitors to be prepared before you leave home. Check in in advance with your local National Forest, by visiting the forest’s website, social media accounts, or by calling their local offices.

Additionally, a web map was developed to help visitors find out which recreation areas are open on nearby forests, including campgrounds, day use sites, and trails on National Forests in California. View the GIS map at https://go.usa.gov/xwurX.

Please follow posted campfire, parking, and camping restrictions. Be prepared to find alternative areas if your trail or campground is full. Additionally, please note that fireworks are NOT permitted on any National Forest.

We continue to recommend that you not travel long distances to recreate and, again, check with your local National Forest before visiting. If you or anyone in your household is feeling sick, please remain at home and plan your trip for another time. All visitors should practice self-sufficiency during your visits to National Forests. Recreating responsibly will help ensure that expanded access to recreational facilities, services, and opportunities continues. Responsible recreation practices should be maintained at all times, including:

· Maintaining at least six feet distancing from others

· Do not gather in groups and please follow the latest guidance from officials

· Communicate with others as you pass. Alert trail users of your presence and step aside to let others pass

· Pack out your trash and leave with everything you bring in and use.

· If you have not yet been vaccinated, please wear a mask and maintain physical distancing while inside Forest Service buildings and facilities.

· All services may not be available, so please plan accordingly.

Additionally, excellent tools and resources are available on the Recreate Responsibly website, which can be found at https://www.recreateresponsibly.org.

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our National Forests safe and healthy for everyone’s use.