USFS closes 120 developed sites in Panhandle forest
Developed campgrounds operated by the USFS across the Idaho Panhandle — such as this one at Heller Creek — were closed indefinately Monday via an order from the forest supervisor’s office. The order extends through June 30.
USFS photo
The Idaho Panhandle National Forest is threatening to fine people for defying its closed campground orders.
The Forest Service has closed campgrounds, fishing sites, trailheads and lookouts throughout the Panhandle until June 30 and in a recent press release threatens to fine people up to $5,000 for defying the orders.
More than 30 sites in the Priest Lake area including Luby Bay, Reeder Bay and the Kalispell Bay boat launch are closed. Closures in the Bonners Ferry area include Roman Nose trailhead Robinson, Smith, Sinclair and Solomon lakes fishing sites and day use areas. The Sam Owen day use and campground including the boat dock, and the Maiden Rock and Whiskey Rock sites are among 16 areas closed in the Sandpoint district. Big Hank, Devil’s Elbow. Beauty Creek, Kit Price, Bumblebee and Honeysuckle are among 18 sites closed in the Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District. The St. Maries, Avery district will close 39 sites including all the campgrounds along the St. Joe River including Packsaddle, Turner Flat, Tin Can Flat, Shadowy St. Joe and Gold Flat as well as Snow OPeak, Trail 50, the Marble Creek Interpretive Center and the Emerald Creek garnet area.
The order is limited to developed recreation sites and developed campgrounds.
“Any violation of this prohibition is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment for not more than six months, or both,” according to the Forest Service.
Panhandle Forest Supervisor on March 30 signed the order, which reflects federal and state guidelines to limit the chance of spreading COVID-19.