Alerts
Safety First
- Please be aware of these alerts because many unexpected situations can present difficult challenges for forest visitors.
- Be well informed and prepared for your next visit to the forest.
- Before venturing out, contact the nearest Forest Service office for recent information on alerts, advisories, notices and closures.
- To report an emergency, please call 911.
Forest Alerts
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Enhanced Campfire Restrictions 19-25-07
In addition to year-round campfire restrictions, National Forest lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin are under enhanced campfire restrictions beginning August 26, 2025, through Nov. 30, or until rescinded.
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Desolation Wilderness Food and Refuse Storage (Bear Canister) Restriction 19-25-06
Possessing or storing any food in Desolation Wilderness unless it is in a bear proof container.
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Public Use Surveys Continue on Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Through Sep. 30
A USDA Forest Service National Visitor Use Monitoring survey is underway on the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and will continue through Sept. 30, 2025.
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Meyers Landfill Area Closure 19-25-01
For public safety, Meyers Landfill and the surrounding area are closed to the public.
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Camping/Overnight Stay Restriction 19-24-05
On National Forest lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin, camping is only allowed in areas listed in Exhibit A of the Forest Order. Most National Forest campgrounds have a 14-day limit per calendar year and a limit of six people, per campsite.
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Desolation Wilderness Restricted Use Area 19-24-02
Desolation Wilderness is a Congressionally designated wilderness area managed and protected under The Wilderness Act and is included in the National Wilderness Preservation System. This unique area now totals 63,960 acres of wilderness land which is yours to enjoy, protect, and care for. Be sure to Leave No Trace so that future generations may return to enjoy its permanent but changing beauty. -
Food and Refuse Storage 19-24-03
The Food and Refuse Storage Order requires the proper storage of food and refuse (garbage) on all National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin.
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Winter Over-Snow Vehicle Restrictions 19-24-01
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a) and (b), and to protect natural resources and provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU). This Order is effective from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2025.
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Harmful Algal Blooms
Harmful Algae Blooms may be present in lakes, streams and rivers in the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas.
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Bubonic Plague
Bubonic Plague is naturally occurring in the Sierra Nevada. Visitors should always take precautions when visiting areas where active plague has been found.