San Bernardino National Forest Anticipates Busy Fourth of July Holiday

US Forest Service
San Bernardino National Forest
602 S. Tippecanoe Ave San Bernardino, CA 92408
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., June 29, 2009— The San Bernardino National Forest is preparing for one of the biggest recreation weekends of the year, as forest visitors come to enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing and a variety of other recreational activities on the national forest in celebration of our country’s independence. Forest officials encourage visitors to be aware of their surroundings and responsibilities
when visiting the forest.

Forest visitors are reminded that possession and use of fireworks on the national forest is prohibited by law at all times and strictly enforced. Public Fireworks Displays will be held on Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake on Saturday July 4th.

Campfires are only permitted at developed sites in the designated fire rings in campgrounds, picnic grounds and sites marked with a yellow post (known as Yellow Post Sites). Outside of developed sites, only propane or gas cooking stoves are permitted.

“We want to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit while always remaining aware of the current situation outdoors and the potential for wildfire,” said Forest Supervisor Jeanne Wade Evans.

The Forest Adventure Pass must be displayed on a visitor’s parked vehicle when recreating in High Impact Recreation Areas and certain developed sites like campgrounds and picnic areas. A list of designated fee sites and areas is posted on the Fee Program website at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ap/ Daily passes at $5 per car or annual passes are available at many local retailers: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ap/vendors.php

All family and group campgrounds will be open for the holiday. Many campsites are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but to ensure a campsite this time of year, visitors are encouraged to make reservations. Reservations can be made online at Reserve USA at: http://www.recreation.gov or by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777.

Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) users can now download a riding area map, which are also available at the forest ranger stations. OHV visitors are urged to visit or call ahead to confirm their OHV plans. The San Bernardino National Forest OHV webpage address is: www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/recreation/ohv