Boise, Idaho -- A number of campgrounds, snowmobile parking lots and areas where visitors gather are being closed immediately for the health and safety of visitors and staff.
Forest officials are cautioning recreation use of these areas as an important step in reducing impacts to local communities who may be at risk from the virus.
As we work through an unpredictable and rapidly changing situation, health and safety is the forest’s No. 1 priority. It is committed to continuing support of our communities and fulfilling its mission as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19.
“In the midst of spring break, we have visitors that want to enjoy the forest but many areas, including hot springs, are drawing more people than social distancing guidelines recommend,” said Tawnya Brummett, Boise National Forest Supervisor. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and re-evaluate as new information becomes available.”
These actions have been taken based on the best available medical advice for cleaning per CDC guidelines and to promote social distancing.
Visitors to National Forests are urged to take the precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) including social distancing. For tips from the CDC on preventing illnesses like the coronavirus, go to: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html.
Important: Most Boise National Forest Campgrounds are closed for the winter but restrooms are left unlocked for visitor use. These restrooms are not serviced so they are not cleaned or stocked.