LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Celebrating Independence Day outdoors is a national tradition, and the USDA Forest Service happily welcomes visitors this Thursday, July 4.

But remember, fireworks and pyrotechnics are prohibited on public lands — every forest, every campsite, every day.

More than 90% of all fires are human caused. Together, Californians can help prevent wildfires with just a bit of planning.

“July 4 celebrations bring a record number of people to California’s 18 national forests. But remember, leave the fireworks displays to your city and local groups,” said Jim Bacon, director of Public Services for the Pacific Southwest Region. “And be sure to pay attention to your surroundings and leave the area better than you found it. Plan ahead, so everyone can enjoy a safe, holiday weekend.”

To ensure a fun Independence Day:

• Consult our Interactive Visitor Map or visit each national forest website for alerts on sites and trails. Have backup destinations in mind, in case an area is closed or overcrowded.
• Trails, trail bridges, and roads may still be blocked due to lingering snowpack, flooding or road damage.
• Stay water smart. Lots of people on boats, enjoying waterways this holiday. But still seeing continued run-off from the snow in the high country. Do not enter cold, rapid water and never enter the water to rescue a victim. Throw something that floats and call 9-1-1.
• Recreate Responsibly – Note any fire restrictions in place before starting a campfire, carry tools to extinguish a flame, and report a fire by calling 911.
• Use the Know Before You Go site for more answers to all your big questions.

For regional happenings, follow Pacific Southwest Region on Facebook, X and Instagram. Or search for individual national forests on X.