Cleveland National Forest Reopens to the Public, Fire Restrictions Increase Across the Forest
Forest-wide emergency closure order expired at midnight Wednesday, September 22, 2021. As we welcome visitors back to the Forest, we ask that you remain vigilant as critical fire-weather conditions persist and are predicted to continue throughout the season. New Fire Restrictions are in effect from September 23, 2021, through January 1, 2022. The use of fires, smoking, welding, and recreational target shooting are restricted. These restrictions will provide for emergency resource protection and public safety during hazardous fire conditions. These adverse conditions have left the Forest extremely vulnerable. These conditions mean that fires are more likely to ignite. Once fires become established, they will have a high resistance to control, strong potential for extreme fire behavior, and rapid rates of spread even with minimal wind. Campfires, charcoal fires, discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun prohibited. Small portable stoves with shut-off valves are allowed. Persons hunting during the open hunting season as specified by the laws of the State of California, and possessing a valid California hunting license, are exempt within the terms of their hunting license.
USDA Forest Service Invests in Infrastructure Improvements on National Forests
The USDA Forest Service announced the investment of $285 million to fund Great American Outdoors Act projects across the nation that will help address critical deferred maintenance and improve transportation and recreation infrastructure on national forests. Read the entire News Release. Projects in the Pacific Southwest Region
Ortega Highway Cal Trans Closures affect access to Trabuco Ranger District trails and recreation sites
Nightly closures and full weekend Highway 74 closures will limit access to many Trabuco Ranger District trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. For more information, please click the Cal Trans link below.
Outdoor recreation can be beneficial for your health but must be practiced safely. We recommend exercising close to your home and complying with local and state guidance for not traveling for your recreation needs. If an area is crowded, please search for a less occupied location. Stay safe. For more on avoiding COVID-19, visit www.coronavirus.gov.
Please avoid visiting national forests if you are sick and/or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Follow CDC guidance on personal hygiene and social distancing before and during your visit to the forest.
If an area is crowded, move to a less occupied location. Also consider avoiding the forest during high-use periods.
Holy Fire Burn Area Closure
An extended closure has been implemented for the Holy Fire burned area and will be in effect until October 2021.
The Valley Fire started on September 5, 2020, burning areas of the Descanso Ranger District. The Valley Fire closure area has been reduced in size and select roads and trails will reopen on December 15th. Corral Canyon OHV Area is also now open to the public. To see the the Valley Burn Area, please refer to the area closure order and map.
Digital Passes For Adventure Pass Fee Sites Now Available
The Cleveland National Forest is now offering digital passes for recreation fee sites! Purchase a day use digital pass prior to your visit at https://www.recreation.gov/ or onsite at one of our fee locations (cell coverage dependent).
Virtual Services
You can access our forest maps at https://www.fs.fed.us/ivm/. If you need immediate assistance or have any questions, please call 858-673-6180.
Versión en Español
Ud. puede accedar los mapas de nuestros bosques en https://www.fs.fed.us/ivm. Si necesita atención inmediata o tiene alguna pregunta, por favor llame al 858-673-6180.
