Welcome To The Southern Yosemite Region
Tourist and visitor information for the Southern Yosemite region, Sierra National Forest, Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake, Oakhurst and Madera County
Featuring Eastern Madera County, Yosemite National Park and the Sierra National Forest, Bass Lake and Greater Oakhurst

Sierra National Forest Information

The Sierra National Forest, located on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. The Sierra National Forest encompasses more than 1.3 million acres between 900 and 13,986 feet in elevation. The terrain includes rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra. Abundant fish and wildlife, varied mountain flora and fauna and numerous recreational opportunities make the Sierra National Forest an outdoor lover's paradise.

Placed under Federal protection and management in 1893, when the area was designated the Sierra Forest Reserve, these lands have met public needs for wood, water and outdoor recreation for more than a century. Today, the Forest's many rugged wilderness areas makes it one of the most popular National Forests in the United States.

Tourist and visitor information for the Southern Yosemite region, Sierra National Forest, Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake, Oakhurst and Madera County

FORESTS WITH A FUTURE

California's national forests face a serious forest health threat. Eight million acres of national forest land in the Sierra Nevada are unnaturally dense and choked with thick stands of trees and other vegetation. The overcrowded conditions have left the forests highly susceptible to drought, disease and insect infestations - primed for intense and damaging wildfires.

The US Forest Service initiated the Forests with a Future campaign in California and parts of Nevada to protect Sierra Nevada old-growth forests, wildlife and communities against catastrophic wildfires. This campaign is a proactive approach aimed at restoring natural conditions to our forests and building public understanding of the need for action while encouraging people to help.

CAMPGROUND RESERVATIONS

Reservations are advised for all selected National Forest campgrounds during "peak" seasons. The peak season for most campgrounds is Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Reservations are not needed after September 15, and most campgrounds close for the season at the end of September. Reservations may be made through the National Reservation System at 1-877-444-6777; TDD 1-877-833-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov

WILDERNESS PERMIT RESERVATIONS

A Visitor Permit is required for all overnight stays in Wilderness areas. A quota system is in effect from May 1st through November 1st for trails in the Ansel Adams, Dinkey Lakes, John Muir, and Kaiser Wilderness areas. There is a $5.00 non-refundable reservation fee for each person for all trails. Reservations can be made up to a year in advance. There is a $10.00 charge for any changes to a confirmed reservation. First come, first serve permits may be obtained up to 24 hours prior to the day of your trip.

WOODCUTTING PERMITS

Woodcutting season is open April 1st through November 30th. To cut firewood in the National Forest you will need to obtain a permit.

FISHING AND HUNTING REGULATIONS

California Department of Fish and Game manages California's diverse fish and wildlife populations. Hunting and fishing are permitted within National Forests during seasons regulated by the California Department of Fish and Game. State hunting or fishing licenses are required.

More Info - http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sierra

Sierra National Forest
1600 Tollhouse Road
Clovis, CA 93611-0532
559.297.0706