Camping occupancy and use limits remain in effect across the Stanislaus National Forest

SONORA, California, (July 31, 2026) – The Stanislaus National Forest issued forest order STF-16-2026-09, limiting occupancy and use in developed and undeveloped locations from July 31, 2026, through July 30, 2029. This order is to provide for public health and safety and for the protection of natural resources and this order supersedes Forest Order STF-16-2022-06 executed July 28, 2022, for the same purpose. Previous orders for the same purpose have been in place for over 35 years.  

The Stanislaus welcomes over a million visitors to the Forest on an annual basis to engage in a variety of recreation opportunities. However, the number of people engaging in long-term forest stays has continued to increase substantially year after year, and long-term visitation often results in degraded resources, human waste disposal issues, trash accumulation, and increases the potential for conflicts with other campers and recreators.

With the Forest Order, the following activities are prohibited (see our website for full forest order).

 Camping, as described below: 

1. 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). 
2. 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). 

Any questions or concerns should be directed to Forest Public Affairs Officer, Benjamin Cossel: benjamin.cossel@usda.gov or 209.288.6261.