The Lassen National Forest will open select campgrounds near prime fishing waters this month for the 2013 fishing season. Forest officials project plenty of camp sites will be available to meet anticipated demand for the April 27th opening day of trout season.Â
Almanor Ranger DistrictÂ
Alder, Elam, and Potato Patch campgrounds, in the Almanor Ranger District, are set to open on April 26th, weather permitting. Visitors planning to camp at these locations should be prepared for low nighttime temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s.
All other Almanor Ranger District campgrounds, including Gurnsey Creek and Almanor, are scheduled for opening the weekend of May 17th, as conditions allow, in time for Memorial Day weekend. Updates will be posted on the Forest web site.
Hat Creek Ranger District
All Forest campgrounds along Hat Creek are scheduled to open April 26th, with the exception of Big Pine Campground.
The Old Station Visitor Center opens April 27th. It is located at the junction of highways 44 and 89, across the highway from Hat Creek. The center will be staffed for weekend visitors Saturday – Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The center will begin a summer schedule in mid-June, open five days a week: Friday – Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Monday – Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visitor Center staff can provide helpful sightseeing, fishing, and camping information.
Eagle Lake Ranger District
Concessionaire campgrounds on the Eagle Lake Ranger District are set to open May 15th. The marina store will be open with limited hours and supplies as of May 18th, with full operation and supplies by Memorial Day.
An outdoor stand at the marina will offer hot food, such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches. Information on concessionaire facilities and services is available by calling 530-257-3067 until May 1st; afterward, call 530-825-3454.
Other Eagle Lake Ranger District campgrounds and day use areas open May 15.
General Information
Dispersed camping is allowed in many places on the Forest. However, visitors are reminded to keep their vehicles on existing roadways, as cross-country travel is prohibited. This policy protects sensitive areas and resources, and prevents damage to vehicles.
Visitors are also reminded that, for campfires away from developed campgrounds, a California Campfire Permit is required. These permits may be obtained free of charge at any Cal Fire, Bureau of Land Management, or Forest Service office.
