New Hours for Little Walnut Day Use Site

SILVER CITY, N.M. – Cherry Creek and McMillian Campgrounds located on the Gila National Forest Silver City Ranger District will reopen Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014.

The campgrounds were temporarily closed in July due to flooding at Cherry Creek during the monsoon season. Water is still present at Cherry Creek around the campground entrances and high clearance vehicles are recommended due to rocks and soft soil present at the creek crossings.

According to Recreation Staff Officer Christa Osborn, "We want to caution visitors that there may be the potential for flooding in the Signal Peak area and to pay attention to weather conditions and be alert."

Cherry Creek and McMillan Campgrounds are both located off NM State Hwy 15.

Little Walnut day use site will have new closing hours starting Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. The new hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., unless there are reservations for the group sites. This new closing time will be in effect until Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2014. Hours remain the same Friday through Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

With the weather being extremely dry, we urge visitors to please practice the following campfire tips:

· Clear all flammable material away from campfires, a minimum of five feet in all directions;

· Only make a campfire if you have a shovel and sufficient water to put it out;

· Never leave your campfire unattended;

· Avoid making a campfire during the windy part of the day;

· To ensure your campfire is out, drown with water and stir with dirt, making sure all burned materials are extinguished. Feel the area with your hand to make sure it's out cold;

· Every campfire must be put DEAD OUT before leaving it.

For additional information regarding campgrounds or other recreational opportunities on the Gila National Forest, contact the respective district ranger office or go online to http://fs.usda.gov/gila.