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[BOISE]  Camping during the Memorial Day holiday may be challenging as many higher elevation campsites and campgrounds are still covered with snow or are too wet and muddy to use.  Consequently, more people may be vying for a limited number of lower elevation campsites. For the best chance of getting a great spot, head out to public lands early.  

BLM Idaho officials have the following suggestions for safe enjoyment of the outdoors over the Memorial Day weekend:

Camping:  Most BLM campgrounds in Idaho are open and ready for the weekend.  Please keep these tips in mind:

• BLM campsites in Idaho are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis; online reservations are not offered.
• Recreation use fees are in effect for many established BLM sites; 100% of your fee dollars go to supporting and maintaining our recreation sites.
• Remember to be considerate of other campers and respect established quiet hours at designated campsites.
• Use Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace principles: stay on existing roads and trails and pack out your trash.
• Reservoirs are full, which means that camping areas below the high-water lines simply can’t be used this spring.
• If you choose to camp at a dispersed site, please select a site that is already established and at least 100 feet away from water sources; dispose of human waste properly (away from water and in a 6-inch or deeper hole, or use a portable toilet).

Driving:  Be prepared for challenging driving conditions.

• Roads may be congested with other drivers.  Slow down around corners and expect other vehicles.
• Avoid muddy sections of roads.  Wet and muddy roads are easily damaged and will have to be closed later for repair—a time-consuming and costly process.
• Be careful when driving on over-saturated road shoulders.
• Watch for children and pets when driving near camping areas.

Water Safety:  Thanks to a wet winter and a moist spring, many of Idaho’s rivers are running full and fast.  On top of that, rivers and lakes are cold at this time of the year. 

• Don’t let children play in rivers and lakes without close adult supervision.
• Personal flotation devices save lives; wear one.  PFDs are required for children under 15 and in a boat 19 feet or less. 
• Don’t attempt to swim or boat in high, swift water by yourself.

Boat Ramp Etiquette:  Although you may find solitude along Idaho's rivers and lakes, you will not be alone, so please be courteous to others. Busy launch sites and congested water traffic can be avoided if everyone practices a few simple courtesies:

• If the boat ramp is busy, please wait your turn and use the ramp only for loading and unloading.
• Prepare your craft before approaching the boat ramp.
• Never block a ramp with an unattended watercraft or vehicle.
• After getting your craft into the water, move it away from the ramp so others can launch.
• Proceed with your trip as soon as possible to avoid congestion at the launch site and docks.

It’s Tick Season:  You aren’t the only one enjoying warmer weather.  Ticks are active in the late spring.  To help keep yourself safe from tick bites, follow these tips:

• Wear light-colored clothing, which makes it easier to spot ticks that grab onto your clothing.
• Apply tick repellent according to the product’s instructions.  Tick repellent works, but don’t overdo it.
• Stay out of brushy areas.  Ticks love brush, especially in the moist areas in valley bottoms and alongside creeks.
• Don’t let your dog bring ticks to you.  Get your dog a tick collar and check your pooch frequently to ensure she isn’t bringing ticks into your tent, trailer or house.

Hiking, Biking and OHVs:  More than 19,000 trails showcase the best Idaho has to offer. Whether you are interested in hiking, bicycling or traveling by off-highway vehicle, Idaho BLM public lands have something for you to explore. These tips will enhance your visit:

• Stay on roads and trails.
• Be courteous and do not disturb wildlife.
• Pack out what you pack in.
• Carry extra water, and always let someone else know where you will be going.

Public lands are often located in your backyard, so get out and explore the outdoors; it’s yours! 

For additional information, visit the Idaho BLM Recreation Website, where you will find a downloadable state recreation guide and map, things to do, places to see, how to plan your trip and more: https://www.blm.gov/idaho 

For information about BLM recreational opportunities in specific parts of Idaho, please call the following:

• Southwest Idaho:  Michael Williamson, Boise District PAO, 208-384-3393
• Southern Idaho:  Heather Tiel-Nelson, Twin Falls District PAO, 208-736-2352
• Eastern Idaho:  Gloria Jackovac, Idaho Falls District PAO 208-524-7526
• Northern Idaho:  Suzanne Endsley, Coeur d’Alene District PAO 208-769-5004