The summer season is fast approaching and many White River National Forest campgrounds are scheduled to open in mid-May. Lower-elevation campgrounds are expected to open at times indicated on the Forest Service’s campground list. High-elevation campgrounds may experience delays due to lingering snowpack and avalanche debris, however.

Prior to heading out on your trip, please check with the local ranger station on the status of campgrounds, roads and trails.

“Across the forest, we had an impressive spring as far as precipitation goes,” said Kate Jerman, public affairs officer. “The snow and rain over the past few months have created variable conditions on the ground. Unfortunately, some of our high-elevation recreation sites have been impacted by avalanche debris and debris movement. We urge everyone to exercise caution, ‘know before you go,’ and if you notice damage at a site, please report it to the local ranger station or campground host.”

The White River National Forest is located in bear country and has a mandatory food storage order to decrease the likelihood of bear-human conflicts. All food must be stored in a bear-resistant manner by using a food locker in campgrounds, an IGBC approved container or inside a vehicle in a sealed container. All food and attractants must be stored where bears can’t access them at night and during the daytime when unattended. If a bear becomes habituated to receiving food in a campground or recreation area and becomes a threat to humans, it may be euthanized.

For more information about camping and recreation in the White River National Forest, call the Glenwood Springs supervisor’s office at 970-945-2521 or contact your local Forest Service district office.