Umpqua National Forest Begins Re-opening of Recreation Areas

ROSEBURG, Ore. (May 6, 2020) The Umpqua National Forest is announcing the first phase of re-opening the forest to recreational users. Beginning Saturday, May 9, some boat ramps and most trail heads on the forest will be re-opened to the general public for use. The boat ramps that are remaining closed have not been cleared from winter debris or are located within areas designated as closed under the current Regional Closure Order. The trailhead to the Umpqua Hot Springs will remain closed. For a complete list of boat ramps, both open and closed, please check the Umpqua National Forest’s website at: https://bit.ly/3chpx1H . Reservations for campsites, fire lookouts, cabins, and picnic site will remain unavailable through Recreation.gov. Existing reservation holders will be notified if there are any changes affecting their reservation. Refunds will be issued for all cancelled reservations. To align with Governor Brown’s executive order directing people to stay home to save lives, the Umpqua National Forest will continue the closure of all other developed recreation sites, to include campgrounds, cabins and fire lookouts. This closure order is still in effect through September 30, 2020 unless rescinded earlier. The remaining recreation closures are necessary to address social distancing guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control, align with Oregon State Governor Kate Brown’s Executive Order and to help reduce pressure on emergency services in already stressed local communities. To this end, we strongly encourage the public to be cautious while recreating outdoors and not take any undue risks. As always, tell someone of your plan; where you intend to go, what time you plan to be back and any specialized information in the event emergency crews may need it. "While we are happy to begin the process to re-open previously closed areas of the forest, the health and safety of the public and employees remains our number one concern,” said Alice Carlton, Umpqua National Forest Supervisor. “This is foremost in our mind as we continue our coordination with our local Counties and State leadership through this crisis.” Some facilities, such as vault bathrooms, will remain open for public use but will not be maintained as we do not have the proper personal protective equipment necessary to ensure the safety of our employees. Members of the public wishing to utilize these facilities are doing so at their own discretion and must take all necessary precautions to ensure for their own personal health and safety. We cannot guarantee a COVID free facility. It is suggested that as you plan to recreate you make preparations to provide your own sanitation and be as self-contained as possible on your outing. Please remember to review current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and focus on protecting yourself, your family, and your community. Via Umpqua National Forest Release