IIndependence Day weekend is just days away, and the Sequoia National Forest is a great place to escape the noise of fireworks and enjoy the holiday. As we approach the holiday and the weekend, forest officials are reminding visitors that fireworks are prohibited on National Forest System lands. Fireworks pose a real threat to our forests, especially with the increasingly hot, dry weather.
Forest Service policy prohibits the possession, discharge, or use of any type of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices on public lands. The penalty for possession of fireworks can be up to $10,000, a jail sentence of up to six months, or both.
A few considerations will help ensure everyone’s safety and fun:
- Give a HOOT – Don’t pollute! Protecting the environment and regenerating responsibly will help ensure that access to recreational facilities, services and opportunities continues to expand. “We encourage people to visit, enjoy and connect with this spectacular country in the safest way possible,” said Forest Supervisor Anthony Edwards. “Waste collection is limited.” Pack it in – unpack it is the best approach for all your trash.”
- Campfire restrictions: No campfires of any kind Due to extreme wildfire conditions, campfires are permitted in the forest outside of developed campgrounds. For a list of site-specific locations where campfires are permitted, see the Forest Order at https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/notices/ForestOrders and select Schedules A, B, and C.
- Most campsites in the forest are open and ready for visitors. Campsites fill up quickly.
For a complete list of campgrounds and to see if you can reserve a site at your favorite campground, visit our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/sequoia/recreation and click on the “Cabins” and “Camping” sections. - Most hiking trails, trailheads and day trip destinations remain open. Hiking is a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of Sequoia National Forest. Visit your local county office and our All Maps page to get a trail map to help you plan your route based on your ability, available time, and interests. Learn more about how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly from our partner Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.
- Be aware of bears during your visit. Much of the forest is black bear habitat, and they are active this year. Bears are always looking for food and will visit your campsite if you do not store your food properly. The preferred method of storing food is bear boxes, which are provided at campgrounds and trailheads such as the Hume Lake Ranger District, and you should be careful not to leave food in your car. In addition to storing your food properly, always keep your camp clean by disposing of waste in bear-proof trash cans or other airtight containers. Please be cautious of the bears to ensure the safety of humans and the welfare of the bears. https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/bears
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including the possibility of thunderstorms and lightning in the afternoon.
- Heavier traffic than usual must be expected on forest roads and paths over the holidays. Drive carefully and notify us of fallen trees or road damage so repairs can be made. Some trails and roads may not be open due to forestry regulations. Please stay on the trails and roads and do not build new paths to avoid hazards.
- Be careful near flowing water. Rivers, streams and lakes have strong currents that can quickly knock you over. Treat all bodies of water with respect and use the buddy system.
For current conditions, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/sequoia/recreation, email (email protected), or call your county visitor information service at:
- Hume Lake Ranger District Visitor Center in Dunlap
Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., (559) 338-2251 - Western Divide Ranger District Visitor Center in Springville
Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., (559) 539-2607 - Kern River Ranger District Visitor Center in Kernville
Daily 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., (760) 376-3781 - Forest Headquarters Visitor Center in Porterville
Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., (559) 784-1500
The Forest Supervisor’s Office and Ranger District Stations will be closed
Thursday, July 4, on the occasion of Independence Day.
We thank you for your cooperation in keeping Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument safe and healthy for everyone. Stay informed by following our website at www.fs.usda.gov/sequoia, Facebook at #SequoiaNF, X (Twitter) at @sequoiaforestor by email (email protected)
