With an even drier spring and looser COVID restrictions, more campgrounds in the Tahoe National Forest are already open, compared to a year ago. Public Affairs Officer Joe Flannery says that also includes group camping. He says last year was their busiest season ever, with the pandemic allowing fewer entertainment and recreation options. But he says reservations are expected to be just as tight this summer…

click to listen to Joe Flannery

Among the Tahoe National Forest campgrounds closer to Grass Valley and Nevada City, Flannery says they’re already open in the North Yuba River basin, along Highway 49, in the Downieville area. And the White Cloud campground off Highway 20 is scheduled to open on Saturday. It’s also important to note that they’re staffed for a more traditional season…

click to listen to Joe Flannery

But the surge in visitors also meant a doubling of escaped campfires, as well as trash. Forest officials urge people to always recreate responsibly.