Klamath River Area Closure and Use Restriction

Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Happy Camp Ranger District of the Klamath National Forest. This Order is effective from August 7, 2026, through August 16, 2026.

1. Going into or being upon the following areas along the Klamath River, as shown on Exhibits A and B. 36 C.F.R. § 261.53(g).
a. Ferry Point River Access Area
b. Independence River Access Area
c. Independence Picnic Shelter
d. Independence Creek Area, beginning at the mouth of Independence Creek at its intersection with the Klamath River and then continuing south for 0.1 mile and including a 0.1-mile buffer to the east and west from the banks of Independence Creek.

2. Launching watercraft at Wingate Bar River Access Area along the Klamath River, as shown on Exhibit A. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(r). 

Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:
1. Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order.
2. Any Federal, State or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Members of the Karuk Tribe and persons invited by members of the Karuk Tribe to participate in ceremonial activities.

These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions in 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart A.

A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an
individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or
both. 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 18 U.S.C. §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581.