Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
Winter Weather Advisory issued October 29 at 11:13AM PDT until November 1 at 7:00AM PST by NWS Sacramento CA
* WHAT...Snow expected for elevations above 7000 feet. Total snow accumulations up to 8 inches, with up to 12 inches at the highest peaks. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches possible down to 6000 feet. * WHERE...Northern Sierra above 7000 feet, including Highway 50 and Interstate 80. * WHEN...From 8 AM PDT Saturday to 7 AM PST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels initially 7000 to 8000 feet Saturday, lowering to 6000 to 7000 feet Saturday night into Sunday. Heaviest snowfall expected Saturday evening into Sunday.
Winter Weather Advisory issued October 29 at 10:39AM PDT until November 1 at 7:00AM PST by NWS Reno NV
* WHAT...Snow above 7000 ft. Snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches with up to 9 inches along the highest peaks. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...Greater Lake Tahoe Area. * WHEN...From 8 AM PDT Saturday to 7 AM PST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Heaviest snowfall expected late Saturday night. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Heaviest snowfall expected late Saturday night.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Daily Burn Status
Fire Information Line: 530-543-2816 (24-hour recorded message)Daily Burn Status for woodcutting and contractors includes the Burning Index, Project Activity Levels, Fire Danger Adjective Rating, Energy Release Component, Ignition Component, and Burn Day Status. This page is updated daily by…
Desolation Wilderness Food and Refuse Storage (Bear Canister) Restriction
Possessing or storing any food in Desolation Wilderness unless it is in a bear proof container.
Meyers Landfill Area Closure
For public safety, Meyers Landfill and the surrounding area are closed to the public.
Help Halt Golden Mussel Invasion
In October 2024, the California Department of Water Resources discovered non-native, highly-invasive golden mussels in the Bay-Delta near Stockton, California. Once established, golden mussels can spread rapidly, significantly damaging natural ecosystems, water infrastructure, agriculture, and…
Camping/Overnight Stay Restriction
On National Forest lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin, camping is only allowed in areas listed in Exhibit A of the Forest Order. Most National Forest campgrounds have a 14-day limit per calendar year and a limit of six people, per campsite. For more information about camping, visit Campgrounds in the…
Campfire Restrictions
Fire Information Line: 530-543-2816 (24-hour recorded message)National Forest lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin are under year-round campfire restrictions. Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are only permitted within permanently installed iron rings in campgrounds listed in Exhibit A…
Desolation Wilderness Restricted Use Area
Desolation Wilderness is a Congressionally designated wilderness area managed and protected under The Wilderness Act and is included in the National Wilderness Preservation System. This unique area now totals 63,960 acres of wilderness land which is yours to enjoy, protect, and care for. Be sure to…
Food and Refuse Storage
The Food and Refuse Storage Order requires the proper storage of food and refuse (garbage) on all National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin. The Forest Order requires all food and garbage that is not personally attended to be stored in a container designed to prevent access by bears and…
Winter Over-Snow Vehicle Restrictions
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a) and (b), and to protect natural resources and provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU). This Order is effective from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2025.
Bear Canisters
Hard-sided bear canisters are required for overnight visits to Desolation Wilderness and bear-resistant containers are required in all other areas.
Harmful Algal Blooms
Harmful Algae Blooms may be present in lakes, streams and rivers in the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. For resources, safety tips, frequently asked questions, local bloom reports and to report possible blooms, visit the State of California Harmful Algal Blooms Portal.
Bubonic Plague
Bubonic Plague is naturally occurring in the Sierra Nevada. Visitors should always take precautions when visiting areas where active plague has been found. For general precautions, symptoms and helpful links, visit our Bubonic Plague at Lake Tahoe webpage.
From Recreation.gov
**Please Note**: One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee.** Extra vehicles will be charged a per night fee that is collected at the campground.**
Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.
Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…
Explosives and Exploding Target Order 04-2021-02
This order prohibits the use of explosives and exploding targets on National Forest System lands within the Intermountain Region.
Floriston Fire Closure
Floriston Fire Closure (Carson Ranger District)
Angel Lake Campground and Day Use Area closing for season
Angel Lake Campground and Day Use Area will close for the season Tuesday, Sept. 8. The closure will allow crews to begin construction on the long-awaited new Angel Lake Dam.
Hawk Fire Closure (Carson Ranger District)
Area closure for the Hawk Fire, Carson Ranger District. This is to protect public health and safety.
Emergency Recreation Shooting Order (Carson Ranger District)
Restrictions on using firearms during high fire danger. This is to provide for the public’s health and safety and to protect National Forest System Lands, resources, and facilities during the current period of highfire danger.
Road Closure for Construction Work (Mountain City-Ruby Mountains-Jarbidge Ranger Districts)
This road closure includes the shoulder and adjacent lands extending 300 feet perpendicular from each side of Forest Service Road 57390 to protect public health and safety during project work.
Ward Fire Closure (Ely Ranger District)
Area closure for the Ward Fire burning near Ward Mountain, Ely Ranger District. This is to protect public health and safety during active wildfire operations and to prevent other ignitions.
Elephant Fire Closure
The Elephant Fire Closure Area includes portions of the Tahoe National Forest and the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.
Butterfly Collection Closure Area (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
Prohibits possessing, storing or transporting butterflies. The purpose of this order is to protect sensitive butterfly species within the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area.
Restricted Use Mokelumne Wilderness Area (Carson Ranger District)
Recreation rules for the Mokelumne Wilderness Area, the Carson Pass Management Area, the Round Top Special Interest Area, and the Salt Springs Reservoir Area, to provide for public safety and protect natural resources.
Power line construction along SR 88, Alpine County, California (Carson Ranger District)
Construction is underway on a Liberty Utilities project to replace power lines in Alpine County, California. Work along SR 88 from Crystal Springs Campground to Sorenson's Resort will be ongoing through the end of the year.Temporary lane closures and traffic detours may occur on SR 88, Crystal…
Bob Scott Campground Closure Extended
Bob Scott Campground is closed during construction.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, Santa Rosa Ranger District
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for the Santa Rosa Ranger District from July 1, 2026 to October 31, 2026.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, Carson Ranger District
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for the Carson Ranger District from June 29, 2026 to October 31, 2026
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, Bridgeport Ranger District
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for the Bridgeport Ranger District from June 29, 2026 to October 31, 2026
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area from May 29, 2026 to September 30, 2026
Dog Leash Requirements During Livestock Grazing (Carson Ranger District)
Leash restrictions in the Thomas Creek and Whites Creek area of south Reno during livestock grazing there. This is to protect public health and safety of ongoing livestock operations.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions (Carson Ranger District)
Day use, camping and fire restrictions for certain areas of the Carson Ranger District. This is for public health and safety and the protection of natural resources.
Camping Closure, Twin Lakes (Bridgeport Ranger District)
Camping is prohibited on the on all NFS lands within 0.5 mile on either side of the segment of Twin Lakes Road and the portion of the Twin Lakes Recreation Area depicted in the attached maps. This is to protect natural resources.
Pine Grove Historic Site Restrictions (Bridgeport Ranger District)
All NFS lands within Pine Grove Historic Site will be closed from sundown to sunrise; going into any historical structures is prohibited. This order aims to protect this area of cultural significance.
Over-Snow Vehicle Closure (Carson Ranger District)
Prohibits possessing or using over-snow vehicles on roads and trails identified in the attached map, in the interest of public safety.
Area, Road, and Trail Closures (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
Closure of lands, roads and trails in storm-damaged areas to protect public safety during repair work.
Under 21 Consumption (Forest Wide)
Prohibits individuals under 21 years old from possessing alcoholic beverages on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest as defined by state law.
Areas, Roads, and Trails Restrictions (Forest Wide)
A list of prohibited acts and activities on National Forest System lands, areas, roads, and trails within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources, property, and ensure the safety of all forest users.
Camping Occupancy and Use Restrictions (Forest Wide)
Camping for more than fourteen (14) days within any thirty (30) day period is prohibited. This regulation is in place to protect natural resources and property, as well as to enhance recreational opportunities for all users of National Forest System lands.
Year-Round Fire Restrictions (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
No campfires are allowed within one mile of homes in Kyle Canyon, Lee Canyons, Cold Creek, Mountain Springs, Trout Canyon, Lovell Canyon, and Coal Springs. The purpose of this order is to protect public safety and reduce damage caused by wildfire.
Hoover Wilderness and Red, Blue, & Big Virginia Lakes Prohibited Acts (Bridgeport Ranger District)
Camping, campfire and transportation restrictions in the Hoover Wilderness and in the Red, Blue, and Big Virginia Lakes area. This is to protect public safety, natural resources, and wilderness characteristics.
Hoover Wilderness Food Storage Requirements (Bridgeport Ranger District)
Food storage requirements for the Hoover Wilderness. This is to protect public safety and wildlife by minimizing the potential for human-bear interactions.
Vehicle Snow Chain Requirements during Inclement Weather (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
Snow chain and four-wheel drive requirements for roads and trails with ice and snow. This is to ensure vehicles have the necessary winterized equipment to recreate safely in adverse road conditions.
Prohibition on Entering or Using a Developed Recreation Site During a Posted Closure (SMNRA)
Prohibits site use during posted closures to promote public health and safety in areas that require extensive personnel to be available for successful management.
Rainbow Canyon Flood Diversion Structure Closure (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
Closure of the Rainbow Canyon Flood Diversion Structure area, as identified on the attached map. This is to protect public health and safety.
Prohibition on Feeding Wild Horses and Burros (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
Prohibits feeding wild horses and burros. The purpose of this order is to ensure public safety, provide protection of wild horses and burros, and protect natural resources and public properties on National Forest System land.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions in Lee Canyon Meadows (Spring Mountains National Recreation Area)
Use restrictions for Lee Canyon Meadows, to conserve the health, diversity, integrity and beauty of the ecosystem and protect public health and safety.
Powell Canyon Road Closure (Bridgeport Ranger District)
Road closure on a section of Forest Service Road 42026, also known as Powell Canyon Road, described in the attached map. This is for public health and safety.
Cultural Area Closure (Bridgeport Ranger District)
Closure area, outlined in attached map, to protect the privacy of tribal activities for traditional and cultural purposes.
Dog Leash Requirement on the Carson Ranger District
Dog leash requirements for specific areas of the Carson Ranger District. These are needed to help alleviate tension between user groups on the most heavily used sections of the trails and will help to reduce impacts to wildlife.
U.S. Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Intensive Use Area Closure (Bridgeport RD)
Closure area, as identified on the attached map, for the U.S. Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Intensive Use Area. This is to allow the permittee to provide security and to facilitate public safety.
Pacific Crest Trail Restrictions (Carson and Bridgeport Ranger Districts)
Restricts cycling on sections of the Pacific Crest Trail in the Bridgeport and Carson Ranger Districts. This is to comply with the National Trails System Act and subsequent regulations designed to protect the experience of the trail's primary users.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions in the Whites, Thomas, Jones, and Galena Creek Areas (Carson RD)
Occupancy and fire restrictions for the Whites, Thomas, Jones and Galena Creek areas. This is to protect public health, safety, and area resources.
Food and Refuse Storage Restrictions (Bridgeport Ranger District)
Food and refuse storage requirements at specific campgrounds on the Bridgeport Ranger District. The purpose of this order is for public health and safety, the protection of wildlife, and to reduce the numbers of bear incidents in the area.
Possession of Cannabis Prohibited (Forest Wide)
Possessing, storing, or transporting cannabis plants or any substance derived from the manufacture of a cannabis plant is prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. This is to protect public health, well being and safety.
From Recreation.gov
**Please Note**: One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee.** Extra vehicles will be charged a per night fee that is collected at the campground.**
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Fire Restrictions are in Effect Forest Wide
Fire Restrictions are in effect forest wide. No campfires except in existing stoves, charcoal grills, or fire rings provided in the Recreation Sites listed in Exhibit A in the Forest Order and actively serviced by a camp host.No charcoal firesCamp stoves, lanterns and propane fire rings are…
Barrett Lake 4x4 Trail is Open
Using any motor vehicle on the trail during this time period.
Horse Canyon Trail (17E21) Closure
This order prohibits use of a motorcycle or motor-driven bicycle on this trail.
Mormon Emigrant Trail Winter Vehicle Use Road Closure
Winter snow closure to passenger vehicles in effect per Mormon Emigrant Trail Winter Vehicle Use Forest Order 03-26-01.
Help Halt Golden Mussel Invasion
The non-native, highly invasive golden mussel was discovered in Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta in October 2024. Once established, they can affect flood control by reducing water flow and contribute to harmful algal blooms. Please contact the waterbody you plan to visit for latest information about…
Daily Burn Status
Burn Day Status: El Dorado County: (530) 621-5897Burn Day Status: Amador County: (209) 223-6246Fires do not stop at agency boundaries, nor do the agencies fighting them. The forest cooperates with other federal, state, and local partners in fire management activities. These relationships foster a…
Camping Occupancy Restrictions
Camping and Occupancy Restrictions for Desolation Wilderness, Mokelumne Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail that runs through the Eldorado National Forest boundary.
Desolation Wilderness Food and Refuse Storage Restriction
Possessing or storing any food in Desolation Wilderness unless it is in a bear proof container.
Silver Bear Wheeled Vehicle Closure
Using a motorized wheeled vehicle on roads and trails in Silver Bear Snowmobile Trail System
Deer Valley Trail (19E01) & Meadow Lake Road (09N01)
Motor vehicle use restricted in these areas during snowmelt. See Forest Order Exhibit A for area map.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions - Desolation Wilderness Area
To help protect the natural resources and ensure public safety, the following is prohibited within Desolation Wilderness.Entering or being in without a valid permit.Entering or being in as part of a group that includes more than…
Mokelumne Wilderness Restricted Use
Prohibited acts within the Mokelumne Wilderness.
Travel Management Designation
Routes designated in Travel Management Subpart B are included as part of the current road system. Allows highway legal and non-highway legal motor vehicle use by the public on 1,002 miles of Maintenance Level 2 native surfaced roads. In addition, there are 635 miles of surfaced roads suitable…
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
PRESCRIBED FIRE NOTICE: Madrone Springs Underburn - 185 acres
Tahoe National Forest is planning to conduct a 185-acre prescribed fire off Madrone Springs Road near Nevada City, Calif. starting Oct. 28, 2026. Ignitions may continue for several days, conditions permitting. Smoke will be visible from Highway 20, Madrone Springs Rd., Washington Ridge and the…
Floriston Fire Closure
Tahoe National Forest and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest has issued a forest closure order for national forest lands impacted by the Floriston Fire.
Fall Prescribed Fire Projects
Tahoe National Forest plans to begin ignitions on prescribed fire projects as early as Oct. 1, 2026, as conditions allow. View more information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe/newsroom/releases/tahoe-national-forest-upcoming-fall-2026-prescribed-fire-projects
Elephant Fire Closure
Closure of identified forest roads and trails within the Sierraville Ranger District of the Tahoe National Forest and the Carson Ranger District on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.
Signal Peak Trail Closure
Closure of Signal Peak Trail to allow for high-voltage powerline repair.
Gauntlet Stewardship IRTC Closure
In response to unhealthy forest conditions, and the need to enhance wildland fire defense in the area, the Tahoe National Forest is treating approximately 1375 acres to the south of Highway 49 in the areas of Forest City, Pliocene Ridge, and Table Mountain. For public safety, the project area will…
Alpine Meadows Stewardship Agreement Closure
This order closes the Alpine Meadows Project area to allow forest restoration work to take place.
Woodchopper Timber Sale Closure
Closure of the Woodchopper project area to allow for timber removal and wildfire risk reduction work.
Boca Stewardship Agreement Closure
Closure of the Boca Stewardship Agreement project area to allow for wildfire risk reduction work.
Cabin Creek Closure
Closure for the Cabin Creek Project area to allow for wildfire risk reduction work.
Rattlesnake Road Closure
Closure of Rattlesnake Road to allow for PG&E to complete the Lake Fordyce Dam Seepage Mitigation Project.
Big Chief Sale Closure
This order closes forest system roads and trails within the Big Chief project area. This closure is to provide for public safety while 675 acres of forest are treated to enhance wildfire defense in the area.
Sugar Pine Roadside Fuel Break Project
Tahoe National Forest contractors are conducting fuels reduction work in the Sugar Pine Reservoir area. Contractors will be masticating ladder fuels to reduce wildfire risk adjacent to North Brimstone Rd (24) between Sugar Pine Rd and Big Reservoir Rd. There may be unexpected hazards such as flying…
Parking Restrictions
Parking or leaving a vehicle is prohibited on Tahoe National Forest where posted.
14-day Camping Occupancy Restrictions
Camping on the Tahoe National Forest is limited to 14 days in a calendar year.
Snow Grooming Updates
Grooming operations have ceased for the season. GROOMING PROGRAM: Snowmobile trail grooming is funded by the State of California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) division winter program.AVALANCHE ADVISORY: The Sierra Avalanche Center (SAC) issues a daily avalanche advisory that covers…
Sierraville Ranger District Trail Closure
Forest Trail 16E87 (Boca-Loyalton Trail) is closed for public health and safety.
Camping and Campfire Restrictions-Truckee and Sierraville Districts
To provide for public safety and to protect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited within the Truckee and Sierraville Ranger Districts of the Tahoe National Forest:1. Camping is prohibited in the Restricted Use Areas described in Appendix A and shown on the maps in Appendices B and C…
Highway 20 Area Camping Restrictions
To provide for public safety and to protect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited within the Tahoe National Forest.
Hoke Valley- Forest Road 860-07 (17E11 Trail) Closed
Forest Road 860 -01 (17E11 Trail) in the Hoke Valley area has been closed to allow for Hoke Valley Meadow restoration.
Overview
The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) encompasses over 156,000 acres of National Forest lands straddling California and Nevada around Lake Tahoe. Currently, winter seasonal closures are in effect for most forest roads, recreation facilities, campgrounds, beaches, picnic areas, and restrooms. The Forest Service's Christmas tree permit program remains temporarily paused. Prescribed fire operations continue through fall and winter as conditions allow to reduce overgrown vegetation and protect communities from wildfires. Winter recreation is open including skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sledding. Hard-sided bear canisters are required for overnight visits to Desolation Wilderness, and bear-resistant containers are required in all other backcountry areas. Campfire restrictions are currently in place. There are active harmful algal bloom advisories, and bubonic plague warnings are posted. The Kokanee salmon spawn is occurring, typically running late October through November and as late as February. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center and most developed facilities reopen Memorial Day weekend through mid-October annually.
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