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  • Forest order limiting occupancy and use remains in effect

    Forest order STF-16-2026-09, limits occupancy and use in developed and undeveloped locations from July 31, 2026, through July 30, 2029. This order supersedes Forest Order STF-16-2022-06 executed July 28, 2022, for the same purpose. 

Alert Start Date: July 31, 2026

Alert End Date: July 30, 2029

Order Number: STF-16-2026-09

Contact Information

Contact Name: Benjamin Cossel

Contact Number: 209-732-8189

Contact Email: benjamin.cossel@usda.gov

Forest Order

Occupancy and Use Camping Limits

Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), and to provide for public safety and protect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited within the Stanislaus National Forest. This Order is effective from July 31st, 2026, through July 30th, 2029.  Camping, as described below:

a.    In any developed recreation site location within one Ranger District for longer than 14 consecutive days within any 30-day period. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(a). b. In any undeveloped location within one Ranger District for longer than 21 total days during a calendar year. 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(a).

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.

These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions contained 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.

Executed in Sonora, California, this 30th day of July 2026

Jason Kuiken 
Forest Supervisor
Stanislaus National Forest

Last updated August 20, 2026