Dinner Station Campground to Close Temporarily
Release Date: Apr 23, 2010
Contact(s): Leona Rodreick
The Dillon Ranger District of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest will be closing Dinner Station campground in the Birch Creek area beginning Thursday, April 22, 2010. Fire crews will be cleaning up, cutting damaged trees and burning debris in the campground that has been left from firewood cutters who have been illegally cutting trees and wood in the campground. Crews will also be repairing fences, signs and any other damaged facilities within the campground. Officials anticipate reopening the campground in mid May.
“I’m glad that our crews will be able to clean up the campground, however, for people who have camped at Dinner Station for many years, it means that the campground will not look the same.” Said District Ranger Tom Osen. “It's unfortunate that a few people have damaged an area that is so popular to a lot of visitors and their families.”
Forest officials are reminding people that cutting firewood in any National Forest campground is not allowed. Additionally, people gathering firewood outside of campgrounds, need to ensure slash left over from the trees they have been cutting is gathered and in piles. Roadways need to be clear of debris as well.
For more information about firewood permits, where to go to gather wood and what is required, contact your local Forest Service office.