Fourmile Campground closed for the 2021 Season
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Fourmile Campground will remain closed for the 2021 season because of falling tree hazards due to a pine beetle infestation. (submitted photo)
The following is a press release from the Fremont-Winema National Forest.
KLAMATH FALLS, OR — Fourmile Campground, located on the Klamath Ranger District of the Fremont-Winema National Forest, is closed through the 2021 season due to hazard trees in the area.
There is a large number of dead and dying lodgepole pine in the area due to a mountain pine beetle infestation. This is creating a danger to the public, especially in the Fourmile Campground area. Located near the base of Mt. McLoughlin, where high winds blow down or break apart dead trees. These trees can suddenly fall, blocking roads and endangering anyone camped or parked below the trees.
A contract has been awarded to remove the hazard trees in the area. Logging was scheduled to start today [7/16/21]. Following the hazard tree removal, Forest Service crews will continue to work in the area to help restore forest health.
Fourmile Campground will remain closed for the 2021 season because of falling tree hazards due to a pine beetle infestation. (submitted photo)
An area closure has been put in place, formally referenced as Closure Order 06-02-13-21-01. It is between the Sky Lakes Wilderness boundary east to the edge of the Rye Spur Trail, and from Fourmile Lake south to the northern edge of Forest Road 3661-360.
Violations of the closure order are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of not more than 6 months or both.
The Twin Ponds Trail is closed between the Sky Lakes Wilderness Boundary and Badger Lake Trail.
The surrounding recreation area, including Sky Lakes Wilderness, is accessible, using alternate routes. Access to Mt. McLoughlin Trailhead and Rye Spur Quarry will remain open. The Pacific Crest Trail is unaffected by this closure. Badger Lake and Twin Ponds trails are accessible through other trailheads. Please contact the Klamath Ranger District at 541-883-6714 for more information.
Fourmile Campground is operated by a concessionaire, Lake of the Woods Resort, under a permit to the U.S. Forest Service. Campers are advised to use other facilities in the area, including Aspen Point and Sunset Campgrounds at Lake of the Woods. Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding while we get this critical work done at Fourmile Campground,” said Klamath District Ranger Melanie Fullman. “Getting the work done this summer and fall means visitors can enjoy this scenic spot nestled against the wilderness next summer with less risk.”
