Celebrating Independence Day in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest? Here is what to know before you go.

Release Date: 

Contact(s): Veronica Hinke


RHINELANDER, Wis., June 27, 2024 – Celebrating Independence Day is a time-honored tradition throughout the United States, and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is happy to welcome all visitors to the Forest.  

“This is one of the most wonderful times of the year here,” said Recreation Program Manager Karen Katz. “We hope that you will take time to hit the reset button by finding a new trail or exploring a favorite hobby in the great outdoors. Planning ahead will help ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.” 

From a stroll through towering pines to a motorboat excursion on one of the many magnificent lakes in the forest, there is something for everyone to take time to celebrate, honor, and enjoy here. Pitch a tent, relax in the sand, or just put one foot in front of the other.  

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest website offers some helpful resources for planning your trip. 

To ensure a safe and fun Independence Day in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, here are some things to know before you go:  

  • Road and bridge closure updates are posted in the upper right corner of the home page of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest website, www.fs.usda.gov/cnnf. Take time to ensure that the roads you plan to travel through are passable or if you will need to allow extra time to detour. If your route is affected by a closure, identify an alternate route. Bring maps with you, even if you have GPS in your vehicle or on your smartphone. Helpful information and forest maps can be found on our website.  
  • With the exception of the David R. Obey Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, USDA Forest Service offices will be closed on July 4, 2024. Plan ahead to obtain one-on-one information or to purchase passes in person. Day-use passes can be purchased with cash or check at trailheads using fee envelopes. Revenue from passes that are required at some USDA Forest Service sites helps to maintain recreation areas.  
  • Take time to review general fire safety reminders. Information about campfires and more is available online. 
  • Fireworks – including sparklers – are illegal on federal and state lands. Use of fireworks in national forests may result in penalties, including fines of up to $5,000 and/or up to six months in jail. (Code of Federal Regulations 261.52 (b and f)). “Fireworks are illegal on public lands. Please leave them at home and take precautions to help prevent wildfires this summer,” Katz said.  
  • A campfire isn’t out unless it’s cold. Never, ever leave a campfire site unattended until it is completely out, and cold. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave. Douse your fire with water and utilize a shovel to bury it in dirt.  
  • Don't forget Smokey Bear’s ever-important message that “Only YOU can prevent wildfires.” Visit www.SmokeyBear.com for additional fire prevention information.  

For more information about the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest please visit the website at www.fs.usda.gov/CNNF or follow updates on Facebook; and Twitter/X: @CNNF002.    

 

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