BLM implements temporary closure of popular recreation sites
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CHALLIS, ID – Due to recent high water and flooding conditions along the Salmon River, the BLM is implementing a temporary closure at the Challis Bridge Day Use Area and the Cottonwood Campground Recreation Site located in the BLM’s Challis Field Office and the Morgan Bar Campground located in the BLM’s Salmon Field Office.
Recent warm weather and spring runoff have resulted in high water levels carrying fast-moving large debris, flooding the recreation sites. The areas will remain closed until high water recedes and BLM employees have an opportunity to remove debris and ensure the areas are ready for public use. Both sites are popular areas and provide easy access to the Salmon River. Crossing flooded roadways in a vehicle and/or entering fast-moving waters is a safety hazard and may result in loss of property or life.
The closure includes the access roads, parking areas and boat ramps. The Challis Bridge Day Use Site is located at the junction of U.S. Highway 93 and State Highway 75. The Cottonwood Campground Recreation Site is approximately 15 miles north of Challis, and the Morgan Bar Campground is approximately six miles north of Salmon.
The areas will be closed until future notice. The BLM manages many recreation sites that include day-use areas and campgrounds on public lands. Please check with your local BLM office before visiting these sites this spring to ensure the area you want to visit is open. The BLM appreciates the public’s cooperation in these efforts and urges outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions and plan ahead when recreating on public lands. Severe resource damage often occurs when vehicles travel on dirt roads in wet conditions.
Idaho’s public lands are valuable resources and part of America’s unique Western heritage. Help us keep them clean from unwanted litter by picking up after yourself and reporting any illegal dumping on public lands. For more information on this closure or for general information, please contact the BLM in Challis at 208-879-6200.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.