All Developed Recreation Site on Forest Temporarily Closed

Release Date: Mar 26, 2020

Release date: 3/26/2020

To support state and local measures directing people to stay home to save lives, all campgrounds, day-use sites, trailheads, Sno-Parks, fire lookouts, OHV areas, and other developed recreation sites on the Mt. Hood National Forest are temporarily closed.  These closures have been deemed necessary to address social distancing guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control, align with Oregon State Governor Kate Brown’s Executive Order to avoid unnecessary travel, and reduce pressure on emergency services in local communities. 

Campsites, fire lookouts, cabins, and picnic sites reservations will also be unavailable through Recreation.gov.  Existing reservation holders will be notified via email and/or cell phone text messages if there are any changes affecting their reservation.  Refunds will be issued for cancelled reservations.  

As we work through an unpredictable and rapidly changing situation, health and safety is our number one priority.  We are committed to continuing to support our communities, local emergency services, and fulfill our mission as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19.   

Forest offices are currently conducting public business by phone, email, or web-based transactions.  Latest updates and information can be found online: www.fs.usda.gov/mthood

The Mt. Hood National Forest continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation and evaluate potential impacts to the forest.  To align with Oregon state public land agencies, the Mt. Hood National Forest recreation site closures will probably extend through May, with frequent re-evaluation of the situation.  Please remember to review current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and focus on protecting yourself, your family, and your community. 

The Gifford Pinchot National Forest and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area also have closures currently in effect.  For more information visit: www.fs.usda.gov/giffordpinchot and www.fs.usda.gov/crgnsa.

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