Shoshone National Forest officials will begin opening developed recreation sites ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, as 16 campgrounds will open on Friday.

For a complete list of campground opening dates and up-to-date information, visit the forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/shoshone/recreation.

“We ask that you continue to follow local, state, and federal guidelines on staying safe when you visit the Shoshone National Forest,” said Shoshone Forest Supervisor Lisa Timchak. “There is still work to be done prior to opening these developed recreation sites. Our employees need to ensure the cleanliness of facilities, conduct proper maintenance, and assess recreation areas for health and safety.”

“We cannot thank our local communities enough for their continued understanding throughout this trying time for us all,” Timchak added.

The Forest Service is asking visitors to recreate responsibly — including by following the latest health guidance, staying at least 6 feet away from others, and avoiding gatherings of large groups. “This will help expand access to facilities and services,” forest officials said.

Visitors are asked to plan accordingly as certain services, such as bathrooms at some trailheads, may still be unavailable.

Fire restrictions will remain in place on the Shoshone National Forest until Wednesday, under a regional fire restriction order signed by Acting Regional Forester Jennifer Eberlien. Eberlien had also closed recreation sites through Wednesday under the order, which had gone into place on April 7.

For updates, visit www.facebook.com/ShoshoneNF or www.twitter.com/ShoshoneNF or contact a local forest office for site-specific information. The Clarks Fork, Greybull, Wapiti District Office in Cody can be reached at 307-527-6921, while the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Cody can be contacted at 307-527-6241.

Meanwhile, Bighorn National Forest officials will open developed recreation sites as weather conditions allow. Some recreation sites remain closed and inaccessible due to snow and mud. Recreation site status information is available at www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/bighorn/alerts-notices.