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Klamath National Forest

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Klamath National Forest
1312 Fairlane Road
Yreka, CA 96097-9549

(530) 842-6131

Salmon River Regulations & Ethics

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Numerous float trips on the river are day trips, a lack of campsites and technical whitewater force most people to camp in nearby campgrounds or campsites near the river. The following rules are designed to protect the fragile camping beaches from damage and abuse. Please adopt these ideas anytime you are camping in a river canyon.

FIREPANS

Firepans or fireblankets are required for floaters camping on all non-vehicle access beaches. This protects sandy beaches from unsightly fire rings, dirty remnants of charcoal and scorched spots. The use of firepans prevents people from abandoning campfires. Abandoned campfires are a serious problem and can escape to start Forest fires in in river canyons.

Forest users are requested not to build fire rings on any beaches.

Protect the Scenic Integrity of our Beaches:
USE A FIREPAN OR CAMPSTOVE.

PORTA POTTIES

Floaters are required to pack out human waste. Although commercial toilet systems are available, a five gallon bucket with a screw-on, leak proof lid will work as an inexpensive alternative. Human waste must be properly disposed of at the end of the trip.

There is now an operational SCAT Machine in Happy Camp. It is located behind the Klamath River Inn across from the Indian Creek River Access. The Scat Machine should accept 5 gallon buckets and river toilets for human waste disposal and cleaning. Contact the folks at Klamath River Inn for tokens to operate the Scat Machine - the charge is minimal.

"DILUTION IS THE SOLUTION!"--- Our summer desert-like climate produces conditions that will cause the beaches to smell like human urine if people urinate on shore. Urine deposited onto the beaches can create a strong odor and attract insects. The lack of consistent summer rainfall means the urine does not get quickly washed away. If in doubt on a highly-used river, urinate into the water. The dilution factor is so great that the impact on water quality is negligible.

Our Advice:
DON'T DRINK THE RIVER WATER!!

CAMPFIRE PERMITS

California state law requires a permit for all campfires and use of camping stoves on National Forest land. If you are floating and/or camping along the Salmon River, you will need a campfire permit.

During summer time fire restrictions, you may only be able to use a portable cooking stove outside of developed recreation sites. River rangers will identify camping locations that will allow cook stove use.

California Law defines a campfire as a fire which is used for cooking , personal warmth, lighting, ceremonial or esthetic purposes that is not within a building, mobile home or living accommodation mounted on a motor vehicle. Campfires include wood fires, charcoal fires, and portable gas stoves using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel.

LIABILITY

You are liable for the costs of extinguishing any wildfire that starts through your negligence.

GROUP SIZE

Group size is limited to 25 persons including guides for commercial rafting trips. Private parties are also limited to 25 persons maximum.

RIVER ETHICS

USE

If you pack it in, pack it out - carry out litter and human waste
Camp only in suitable areas
Keep a clean camp
Use biodegradable soap away from water
Use only dead and down wood
Make sure your fire is dead out
Use a firepan or campstove
Think safety, travel in pairs
Know your limitations, resources and equipment
Plan your trip - let someone know your schedule
Carry first aid kit and proper equipment
Always wear your life jacket on rivers

SHARE

Respect the rights of others
Be courteous and helpful - your attitude shows
Observe all laws - report violations
Care enough to do a little - make a difference!
Appreciate
Tread lightly - leave no trace
Enjoy It - Protect It - Conserve It
Be a part of the solution - not a part of the problem

We hope you enjoy your visit to the rivers and creeks of the Klamath National Forest.

RELATED LINKS

Campfire Permits

General Camping Information

Location of Campgrounds

Salmon River Photo Gallery

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USDA Forest Service - Klamath National Forest
Last Modified: Thursday, 08 May 2008 at 08:27:01 EDT