KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 13, 2015 – In response to the current conditions on the Rough Fire in Sierra National Forest and Sequoia National Forest, the National Park Service is issuing a travel advisory for visitors traveling to Grant Grove, Cedar Grove, and along the California Highway180 corridor between them. Visitors should be aware of fire trucks and other emergency vehicles traveling throughout the park.
AT THIS TIME There are no closures for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and all areas remain open.
This advisory is to make the public aware that California Highway 180 could possibly close with or without warning due to fire conditions. Every attempt to notify visitors in advance will be made but fire behavior can be unpredictable so please plan ahead. If the road closes, visitors in Cedar Grove will have to stay in the area until it is safe to leave.
Additionally we will try to accommodate existing campground reservations in affected areas by moving them into other campgrounds. However, we want to remind visitors that camping environments and facilities may differ from their original campground assignment as each area is slightly different.
Smoke management and visitor education is of paramount importance to area parks and forests. However, weather changes throughout the day can force smoke into or out of various canyons and valleys. If you have health conditions that may worsen by smoke in the air talk with a ranger for alternate locations to visit.
We want to remind visitors to be aware of how much gas is in the car or plan for an extra day of food and adequate water when camping as weather or emergencies can impact even the best made plans. Always notify loved ones of camping plans and check in with them when you return.
For more information on the Rough Fire, please refer to http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4456/, visiting the Sierra National Forest's website http://www.fs.usda.gov/sierra/