Some Rim Fire Areas Open

Sonora, CA — Stanislaus National Forest Officials announced today that more Rim Fire closed areas opened along with some seasonal roads. The areas include campgrounds, day use areas, sections of the Tuolumne River and trails. Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski issued a new Rim Fire Closure Order today reflecting the changes.

Forest Officials say since day three of the Rim Fire, hazard tree assessment and removal work has been taking place at recreation sites. “We heard from the public and we knew what sites were most wanted by the summer. Here we are, it’s spring, and we’ve got them open,” says Rebecca Garcia Forest Spokesperson.  Although some campgrounds are open, you will not be able to actually camp until April 25, which is the start of Fishing Season.

Forest officials caution that there are still many areas that are not open and visitors need to pay close attention to posted signs in the Rim Fire areas. “Stay within the designated areas is absolutely the key message that needs to go out because the hazards area real,” says Garcia.

Here is the forest’s list of open areas:

•  Carlon Day Use Area (Upper, Lower, and Carlon Falls Trailhead)
• Dimond O Campground
• Lost Claim Campground
• Lumsden Campground
• Lumsden Bridge Campground
• Merals Pool Boat Launch
• Middle Fork Day Use Area
• Rainbow Pool Day Use Area
• Rim of the World Vista
• Sweetwater Campground

Forest Officials report you can now access the Tuolumne River at the Cherry Creek Boat Launch near Andresen Trailhead.  The Cherry Creek Launch at Holm Powerhouse and Andresen Mine Trailhead remains only accessible by shuttle service.

Some roads on the Summit Ranger District are still closed due to snow and muddy conditions.  You can contact your local ranger district to find out current road conditions in the forest.

The new Rim Fire Closure Order is in effect through November 18 or until further notice as conditions allow.