News Release

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Remains Closed

NPS Photo

News Release Date: August 16, 2018

Contact: Matt Switzer, 530-242-3454

Whiskeytown, Calif. – Due to continued hazardous conditions associated with the aftermath of the Carr Fire within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area and the efforts of utility and highway workers to re-establish services, the lands and waters of the park remain closed indefinitely due to public safety. Although portions of Highway 299 are open, stopping along the highway is not allowed for your safety. 

The visitor center and adjacent parking lot and overlook are now open for information from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days-a-week (as staffing permits). Restrooms are available and merchandise is available for purchase. Passes are not required to stop at the visitor center and overlook.
 
As portions of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area are assessed for damages and hazards are mitigated, some areas may open earlier than others. Some areas of the park suffered damage to both the landscape and the facilities, and providing a safe environment, potable water, and working sewage systems for our staff and visitors is our highest priority. Although some areas may be open in the near future, there is the possibility that they may re-close if fall and winter rains create the possibility of flash flooding, landslides, and debris flows. 

On July 23, the Carr Fire started on Hwy 299 inside Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Suppression response was immediate, with unified joint command of the National Park Service and CalFire, with a robust, full-scale initial attack. The fire was fought aggressively utilizing hand and engine crews, bulldozers, and air attack. In spite of full suppression tactics, the fire quickly spread north out of the park, and over the next week burned in and around the park, eventually burning almost the entire park and forcing campground, inholding, local community, and National Park Service staff evacuations.