Sierra National Forest Reopened Three Campgrounds
The U.S. Forest Service has officially reopened Fish Creek, Soda Springs, and Little Jackass to the public.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Camping
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Sierra National Forest has reopened three campgrounds following the completion of extensive rehabilitation projects. The sites were removed from a previous closure order under a new directive.
Why it matters
The reopening marks the successful conclusion of restoration efforts designed to mitigate safety hazards caused by past fires and tree mortality. These upgrades ensure the sites are once again suitable for recreational use by visitors to California.
The U.S. Forest Service invested $2.17 million in contract work to restore the three sites. This project specifically targeted damage resulting from previous fires and tree mortality.
The players
Sierra National Forest
This is a federally protected area in California managed by the U.S. Forest Service that spans over 1.3 million acres of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
U.S. Forest Service
This federal agency manages national forests and grasslands to provide sustainable land use and protect natural resources for the American public.
The details
Crews completed necessary repairs to restore accessibility and safety at Fish Creek, Soda Springs, and Little Jackass. These locations were previously restricted under a formal closure order that has since been updated to allow for public access.
Timeline
Forest Order 05 15 00 26 11 went into effect on October 9, 2026.
The active closure order expires on December 31, 2026.
Roadmap
This reopening aligns with the broader institutional strategy of Forest Order 05 15 00 26 11 to manage and restore public lands impacted by forest fires. It reflects a shift toward prioritizing infrastructure repair in high-mortality zones to expand capacity for outdoor recreation.
Residents and visitors can now access these three specific sites, though they should continue to monitor updates regarding additional amenities. The availability of these campgrounds marks a return to standard recreation options for those planning trips to the Sierra National Forest.
The takeaway
Visitors are encouraged to check official forest updates before traveling, as restoration work remains an ongoing effort across the region. Planning ahead helps ensure campers can navigate current access restrictions and temporary closures effectively.
Further reading
Find more tips and information on our Camping section.
More information
View the full forest order and map for further details.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Gold Rush Cam.
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