Forest Svc Recreation Update

[admin]

U.S. Forest Service
Sequoia National Forest
105 Whitney Rd.

Kernville, CA 93238
Voice: 760-376-3781
Twitter: @sequoiaforest
Web: www.fs.usda.gov/sequoia


News Release

2015 recreation update for the Kern River Ranger District

Kernville, Calif., March 9, 2015—The Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest took steps in 2014 to promote a healthy ecosystem along the Wild and Scenic Upper Kern River. Camping is now permitted only in developed (fee) campgrounds and designated dispersed (free) camping areas along the Upper Kern River. Day-use activities such as fishing and picnicking are still allowed within the entire corridor. Halfway and Thunderbird were converted into group campgrounds in 2014, and can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Boundary markers have also been installed along the perimeters of the designated dispersed areas. These changes have already significantly reduced the negative impacts caused by previous overcrowding (such as extreme littering, improper disposal of human waste, and damage to vegetation). Volunteer groups such as the Keepers of the Kern and Kern River Conservancy have also been invaluable in keeping the river clean—contact your local Forest Service office if you are interested in volunteering.

District Ranger Al Watson will again temporarily waive day-use and overnight camping fees at Auxiliary Dam, Old Isabella, and South Fork Recreation from July 1 to October 1. Even at low lake levels, Lake Isabella continues to be a fantastic place to boat, fish, and recreate.

In response to continued drought conditions, all coin-operated showers on the Kern River Ranger District will be inoperable for the summer to conserve water for drinking and flush toilets. Although there are no fire restrictions currently in place, this could change at any time. Please contact the Forest Service prior to your trip for updates.

Seasonal campgrounds will begin opening March 28. Call an office or visit Recreation.gov to find out when a specific campground is opening. French Gulch Group Campground and Pioneer Point Campground (along Highway 155) and Headquarters Campground (four miles north of Kernville) will all remain open year-round. Live Oak North, Live Oak South, and Live Oak Group Campgrounds will remain closed for the duration of 2015 due to extremely dry conditions (unless needed for overflow camping).

Summer is approaching fast—the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce’s 26th Annual Isabella Lake Fishing Derby, permitted through the Sequoia National Forest, will start in just a few weeks (March 28). Plan your trip to the Forest now; and if you have any questions or want more information, contact the Kernville Office at (760) 376-3781 or the Lake Isabella Office at (760) 379-5646.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Cody Norris
Public Affairs Officer
Forest Service
Sequoia National Forest, Kern River Ranger District