Panther Flat campground water shortage
Release Date: Aug 15, 2014
Eureka, California, August 15, 2014 – Panther Flat Campground on the Gasquet Ranger District/Smith River National Recreation Area of the Six Rivers National Forest had to shut down water systems yesterday due to extraordinarily low water levels in the well that supplies the facility.
While one faucet has remained on temporarily in the hopes of being able to provide some access to drinking water, monitoring has revealed that water flows continue to decrease. It is possible that all water to the campground will be shut off in the near future. The flush toilets and showers are closed. Portable toilets and hand washing stations are being provided. Campers are advised to bring their own drinking and camp water. Water containers may also be filled at the Gasquet Ranger Station, located two miles west of Panther Flat on Highway 199. While the Ranger Station is closed on weekends, the water faucet is near the front door and available for use.
Panther Flat Campground is normally open all year round, though reservations are only accepted through Labor Day. Reservations may be made through Recreation.gov, or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Individuals who have made reservations already and wish to cancel their reservations before arrival due to the change in the water situation at the campground should do so by calling the same number.
Currently, Patrick Creek Campground, located approximately 8 miles east of Panther Flat along Highway 199, is still able to offer drinking water and flush toilets. The water situation at Patrick Creek is monitored daily. Patrick Creek Campground also stops taking reservations immediately after Labor Day, and closes for the season on September 10. Grassy Flat Campground, which did not have water available at all this year, will close on September 9. Big Flat Campground, located up the South Fork of the Smith River, will close on October 15.
For further Information, contact Carrie Carter-Griffin at 707-457-3975.