The Whiskeytown Nugget the Official Newspaper of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Summer 2010

National Park Service Park News U.S. Department of the Interior

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area The Whiskeytown Nugget The Official Newspaper of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Summer 2010

In This Issue

The FenCE post...... 2 What ArE qUAGGA & zebra musselS? ...... 2 Smoke Free beaches At Whiskeytown...... 3 Brandy Creek Forest Restoration...... 5 what you need to know...... 6 Ranger Guided Activities...... 6 Visit Us On The Web! www.nps.gov/whis What On Earth Are We Leaving For Our Children? By Jeremiah Hockett and Jim Milestone this coming year. Take a glance at the t-shirt of Superintendent’s Corner th enerations of Northern California’s 5 any WES naturalist and you will read the words Jim Milestone and 6th -grade students share fond memo- “What on Earth are we leaving for our children?” G elcome to Whiskey- ries of a five-day adventure of learning, discovery, In response to this thought-provoking Wtown National Recre- and connecting with the wildness and beauty of question and call to action, the National Park ation Area, everyone! Over nature at Whiskeytown Environmental School Service and SCOE are searching for ways to the past ten years I have had (WES). For many, their time spent in the woods save this valuable program for future generations. the honor to serve as Super- with a naturalist was a defining moment in their Administrators and park managers are consider- intendent of Whiskeytown. lives: the moment they developed a sense of place ing different options and developing strategies During that time, the volun- in nature, and realized that by taking action, each that range from seeking additional private foun- teers, National Park Service staff and our concessionaire, of us can care for the natural world. dation grants, to shifting more of the funding Forever Resorts, have worked source to the National Park Service. In addition, hard to create for you a premier park experi- leaders are exploring the feasibility of shifting ence. We want you to have a happy and memo- management from the county to a for-profit en- rable time on the lake and in the forest with your vironmental education business. Park Superin- friends and family. tendent Jim Milestone and SCOE Superintendent With this winter’s heavy snowfall, the 6,200- Tom Armelino are seeking solutions so the doors foot Shasta Bally Mountain is still wearing a lovely snowcap into the month of June. Our spring rains of Whiskeytown Environmental School can and snowmelt are producing thunderous runoff at remain open for generations to come. the park’s three large waterfalls. Our hiking trails It seems that we are at a crossroads right now; have been expanded, taking visitors deep into the either we will hear the laughter of happy chil- old growth forest where the black bear, moun- dren echoing through the little white cabins of tain lion, and deer roam freely. Salmon from the the school as it continues to thrive and grow, or Golden Gate are swimming in lower Clear Creek canyon and their young fingerlings are growing allow the laughter to fade into the wind and the in the cool, shaded waters of Orofino and Paige darkness of an empty mind as the doors are Boulder Creeks, preparing for their return to the closed. Pacific Ocean. Some of my memorable moments in the years A student discovers an aquatic insect in Clear Creek past have been swimming after work with my wife When you meet one of the naturalists at WES, and children in the cool waters of Whiskeytown you might be struck by their free-spiritedness, Lake. My 9-year old son and I have hiked to Whis- keytown Falls 42 times to “inspect the trail” and spontaneity, eagerness to learn and discover, change the register box papers at the base of the and their love of all things wild…especially the falls. Last summer the young men and women of students! These fun-loving environmental the Student Conservation Association, in conjunc- educators have served nearly 90,000 students tion with local foundations and the non-profit over the last four decades by providing both Friends of Whiskeytown, built the new Shasta resident and day-camp environmental educa- Trinity Trail through Papoose Pass: allowing visi- tion opportunities for students. Learning isn’t tors to hike over the shoulder of Shasta Bally from Brandy Creek’s Sheep Camp to Boulder Creek Falls limited to the middle-school students; an trail. This new 5-mile trail takes visitors through additional 15,000 college and high school the ancient forest of the park and completes a students, parents, grandparents, and other family Students enjoying one of the many trails at WES missing link in the trail system—it allows people members have received valuable leadership train- to hike all the way from Redding’s Sundial Bridge ing through service as cabin counselors. “What on Earth are we leaving for our to the Trinity Alps Wilderness Area! The school that has served as the cornerstone children?” What we hope to leave for future In early June, our Resources Management staff of environmental education for north state stu- generations of north state children is a school in will be overseeing a forest thinning project in Brandy Creek watershed to increase the forest dents is in jeopardy. California’s massive budget which they can discover their place within natural health, especially for the park’s old-growth Black shortfall has reduced the flow of funds to the communities. A sense of place is the seed from Oaks that date back over 200 years. The Obama state’s counties to a mere trickle, and Shasta which a sense of stewardship emerges, rooted in Administration’s Economic Stimulus Program and County Office of Education’s (SCOE) funding an ecological conscience, and ultimately branch- (CONTINUED on page two) support for the school may dry up completely ing out to the preservation of a healthy planet. Superintendent’s Corner The Fence Post (CONTINUED from page one) By Rich Hayes, Park Volunteer and former Park Ranger Congress’s American Reinvestment and Recovery Act are paying for a n 1973, Whiskeytown Nation- dropping up there. I finally decided, Having figured out what was go- portion of Whiskeytown’s historic Ial Recreation Area was a bit and convinced my skeptical friends, ing on, we prepared to leave, but mine shafts to be sealed. Also, the different from the park visitors that the reason was to broadcast its along with being a snoop, I’m also large tailing pile on Crystal Creek experience today. Back then, park scent. curious. As we left, I took a small Road from the 1963 Trinity River Di- version Tunnel Project will finally be rangers routinely patrolled the back- Knowing that one reason pred- stick and brushed the droppings contoured and landscaped to restore country trails of Whiskeytown on ators (and other animals) deposit from the top of the post. Several the site to a more natural state. horseback, and visitors days later, when I hap- Finally, we are proud to provide would be able to see two pened to be in the area, I for you the first “smoke-free” beach- of the Park Service’s fa- checked the post and sure es in the National Park Service. This mous Point Reyes Morgan enough, there on top was a new regulation will prevent harmful horses nibbling tender fresh, shiny dropping. Just chemicals of secondhand cigarette smoke from entering your body and grasses in a fenced pasture to be sure, I again used a reduce the litter from cigarette butts. between the Tenant Farm stick and brushed it off. Of all the diverse opportunities House barn and Clear I believe Gray Foxes available, whichever recreational Creek. can live up to fifteen or activity you choose, exercise, health I forget exactly what I so years. However long and nature are waiting for you here and two of my colleagues they live, I know that from at Whiskeytown. As you relax on the beach or hike over the Papoose were doing out at the pas- that first time in 1973 when Pass, take the time to enjoy the ture that day. Being snoopy we discovered the drop- views of the park’s high peaks and as by nature, I was the one pings on the post, until kayakers and swimmers glide past who first spotted the near I left Whiskeytown for you, watch the surreal calm of the perfectly-formed Gray Fox Donn Walgamuth Saguaro National Park in lake in the late afternoon. Listen dropping perched on top Arizona in 1982, every time to the birdcalls coming from the of the fence post, at least five feet off their droppings and urinate at cer- I was out at the Camden House area, forests that surround you. Enjoy the park, be safe and have fun with the ground. Gray Foxes (Urocyon tain locations is to let others of their I would stop and check the fence your family and friends while cinereoargenteus) are the only mem- kind know that this certain territory post. creating those happy memories at ber of the dog family who common- belongs to this particular animal, it Every time there was a fresh drop- Whiskeytown! ly climbs trees, so it wasn’t odd to made sense to me that this fox was ping on it. So, of course I would find that one had gone up the fence simply putting its scent at a higher brush it off again. I wonder…if post. What was odd, and what had level so that it would be broadcast- there were a fence post out there Jim F. Milestone my companions and I scratching our ed a farther distance. I have since today…would fox droppings be on Superintendent heads, was why it had deposited its learned this is in fact true. top of it? What’s so Special About the Special Access Kayak Program? By Nancy Quirus, Park Ranger irst of all, there’s our special increasing accessibility for visitors Fneeds visitors themselves— with special needs and underserved they come with amazing capabilities members of our community. If you, and individual adaptations that have a family member, or a friend have encouraged our rangers to see po- ever considered kayaking on beauti- tential and possibilities rather than ful Whiskeytown Lake, but hesitated perceived limitations or barriers to because of limited mobility, advanced participation in the kayak program. age, disability, developmental issues, The program is supported by or illness, the Special Access Kayak an entire crew of dedicated volun- Tours may be perfect for you! teer “kayak buddies” who partner “Our group found the experience up with our special needs guests. to be interesting, informative, stimu- In addition, the outstanding volun- lating and most of all, fun,” stated a teers of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, program participant and member of Flotilla 39 of Redding, provide their a local active-aging exercise group. invaluable assistance and expertise Whiskeytown is truly a special place for each Special Access kayak tour to for everyone, and we are proud to ensure that everyone is having a safe offer this unique program! For more and enjoyable paddling experience. information on this wonderful pro- The National Park Service at gram, please call Park Ranger Nancy Improving accessibility and creating smiles are what the Special Whiskeytown NRA is dedicated to Quirus at (530) 242-3454. Access Kayak Program is all about. What Are Quagga & Zebra Mussels? THE M D ES uagga and Zebra mussels are two very closely re- What can you do to help? A S lated exotic species of bivalve that have caused E A Q When removing any water- G ecological and economic havoc in many areas of North R craft from the water:

P E America. The goal of the Quagga and Zebra Mussel

S • Drain all water and dry all areas.

Prevention Program is to stop these nuisance species

• Drain and dry the lower outboard

from becoming established in new areas. Quagga and

unit. N zebra mussels can be inadvertently spread by boaters as S • Clean and dry all live-wells. O L they move their boats from one water body to another. T E • Inspect all exposed surfaces - small T SS quagga/Zebra mussels feel like sandpaper to the HE MU Mussels could: touch. • Disrupt the food chain and • Wash the hull of each watercraft Whiskeytown National fishing thoroughly. • Foul facilities like docks • Remove all plant and animal Recreation Area 2010 and ramps material. http://www.dfg.ca.gov/invasives/quaggamussel/ • Encrust boats and clog • Empty and dry any buckets. engines • Dispose of all bait in the trash. Help save whiskeytown lake, get • Litter beaches with sharp • Wait 5 days and keep watercraft the annual boat sticker/inspection smelly shells dry between launches into differ- from a ranger before you launch! ent fresh waters.

The Whiskeytown Nugget 2 Smoke-Free Beaches at Whiskeytown: A Premier Park Experience By Jim Milestone, Superintendent ave you ever gone to the swimming beaches. Smoking at Hbeach, found your favor- these beaches is only allowed in the ite spot, laid out your beach towel parking lots. Collectively, the four and swimming gear, and just when beaches make up little more than a you’ve settled into the summer’s half mile of shoreline; there are 37 spell of a great day at the beach, miles of shoreline with many little you detect wafts of tobacco smoke private pocket coves and beaches from a fellow beach visitor? Three that visitors use for recreation and options typically come to mind: fishing around Whiskeytown Lake. a. Stay and endure the secondhand Smoke-free beaches represent a smoke; b. Relocate to another spot; new experience for beachgoers, or c. Hope the breeze shifts or the free of secondhand smoke and cig- smoker has had enough sun and arette litter. These new safeguards leaves! are an undeniable success for the Just how many visitors smoke protection of public health and the at Whiskeytown compared to how natural environment. many people want to breathe just Since the banning of smoking on the fresh air of the surrounding for- airplanes and in bars, rates of can- Visitors enjoy the sunshine and cool waters of Brandy Creek Beach on July 4, 2009 est? It turns out that over 76% of cer have declined significantly for the folks using the beaches of Whis- waiters and flight attendants work- Southern California implemented Whiskeytown. The meeting was keytown do not smoke cigarettes ing in those environments. Visitors smoking bans to reduce second- followed by a 30-day public com- and 66% wish no one smoked on can go to Whiskeytown this sum- hand smoke exposure and to re- ment period. Over 65 letters and the beach at all! mer and enjoy smoke-free beaches duce the litter of tossed cigarette emails were sent to the National In the spring of 2009, Shasta while breathing the clean air of the butts. Park Service regarding the pend- County Tobacco Education Co- park’s forest pouring from the cool Park managers allowed Shasta ing smoke-free beach policy. Over- alition and Shasta County Public drainages of Shasta Bally Mountain. County Tobacco Education Co- whelming public response called Health approached Whiskey- alition and Shasta County Public for implementing the smoke-free town National Recreation Area’s Health to conduct a visitor survey to policy, with only about five letters management and asked if the see how people felt about cigarette opposing it. Many people who National Park Service would take smoke on Whiskeytown’s beaches. wrote letters told personal stories of steps to make the beaches smoke- Over 400 people were interviewed having to move away from smokers free. This request raised many over the month of June and several on the beach to avoid the second- important questions regarding the interesting statistics came to light. hand smoke, while others wrote of trend to make areas of our society The majority of people who use the their distaste for the hundreds of free of cigarette smoke. Recent beaches are women with children. cigarette butts they encounter in laws passed in California are aimed Throughout California, about 13% the sand. Finally, a person wrote to protect people from the carci- of the population smokes cigarettes; of once stepping on a burning ciga- nogenic poisons of cigarette smoke in Shasta County, about 21% of the rette left carelessly in the sand. inside businesses, restaurants, bars, community smokes cigarettes. On May 1, 2010, Whiskeytown airplanes and public gathering During the winter, a public National Recreation Area became places like libraries, hotel rooms meeting was held to discuss imple- the first national park site in the Thank you for observing and some city parks. Recently, menting a smoking ban on the four nation to implement a smoke-free our smoke-free policy! many county beaches throughout designated swimming beaches at beach policy on its four designated

You Can Make a Difference! A Corner of Heaven

ou can learn new skills, teach others about Whiskey- I became a volunteer at Whiskeytown National Ytown and the surrounding area, stay active and in- Recreation Area to recharge my soul after volved, and meet new friends. Volunteer opportunities at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area are as diverse as a serious illness the natural and cultural resources of the park. Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, artists, teachers, stu- I thought long and hard about my decision dents, gardeners, and many more special people have Where would I find the time? found a wonderful place to share their skills and knowl- edge. Volunteers of all ages donate their time and expertise As I stood looking out over the lake, to help achieve the mission of the National Park Service. I knew I would make the time Volunteer work at Whiskeytown can be a meaningful and rewarding experience. Through their tremendous contri- Life is short butions, our volunteers demonstrate how much they care about this beautiful park, and we are grateful to have them We are blessed to live in this beautiful place helping us care for it. The next time you visit Whiskeytown, There is a very good reason that the selfless people of the take a moment to enjoy the view National Park Service’s Volunteers-In-Parks program are referred to as VIP’s – they are Very Important People! Look closely at the colors “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, commit- Listen to the sounds ted citizens can change the world; indeed it’s the only thing Find peace in the stillness that ever has.” - Margaret Mead, Anthropologist

If you would like more information about how you can make America’s Whiskeytown is a corner of heaven Best Idea even better by volunteering in the park, call the Volunteer Manager at (530) 242-3421, or check out park’s website at www.nps.gov/whis By Sheila Heuer Applications may be obtained at the Visitor Center or by writing: Volunteer Manager, Whiskeytown NRA, P.O. Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095.

The Whiskeytown Nugget 3 Heed the Call of the Falls! By Robert Gutierrez, Park Ranger he 3,200 sur- tem. A visit to any of the park’s four waterfalls Tface acres of with family and friends is sure to be an inspiring cool, sapphire-blue experience; one that will create happy memories waters of Whiskey- for a lifetime. town Lake are one of Our mission statement is a promise to the the most prominent American people; a promise that employees, features of Whiskey- concessionaire staff, and volunteers of the town National Rec- National Park Service strive to honor each day. reation Area; how- The National Park Service is dedicated to ever, an additional “….preserving unimpaired the natural and 39,000 acres of back- cultural resources and values of the national country await your park system for the enjoyment, education, and exploration. We en- inspiration of this and future generations.” Sunset over Shasta Bally and the Trinity Alps, Marissa Carlisle courage you to hike, Please enjoy your park. Carry on the proud “Thousands of nerve-shaken, over civilized people are mountain bike, or take an equestrian adventure tradition of stewardship that will allow present beginning to find out that going to the mountains is on one of the park’s many trails. Discover the and future generations to enjoy Whiskeytown’s going home; that wilderness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only natural and cultural wonders that make Whiskey- scenic beauty. Take photographs and happy as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as town unique and worthy of inclusion as one of memories home with you, and leave only fountains of life.” -John Muir, 1898 America’s treasures in the National Park Sys- footprints! Happy Trails!

Whiskeytown Falls Brandy Creek Falls Crystal Creek Falls Boulder Creek Falls

James K. Carr Trail to Crystal Creek Falls turnout Brandy Creek Trail Trailhead Boulder Creek Trail Whiskeytown Falls Name from Crystal Creek Road Whiskeytown Falls is the tall- Consisting of an upper An easily accessible won- The three cascades of Boulder est waterfall in the park and and lower falls, it offers Waterfall der of Whiskeytown, Creek reach 138 feet in height, consists of three spectacu- several breathtaking sur- Description this is the ideal adventure and are tucked into a dark, lar cascades of whitewater prises as visitors wind for visitors who desire an shaded box canyon filled with rumbling from a height of their way along the creek easy walk to a beautiful moss and ferns. There are three 220 feet and through the trees waterfall creek crossing from S. Shore Dr Difficulty Easy from Mill Creek Road Moderate to Strenuous Moderate Easy Rating Strenuous from South Shore Dr Distance 3.4 miles 3 miles 1/2 mile 2 mi. from Mill Creek Road Roundtrip 5.5 mi. from South Shore Dr Hiking time 2 1/2 - 3 hours 2 - 2 1/2 hours 30 - 45 minutes 2 hours from Mill Creek Road Roundtrip 4 - 5 hrs from South Shore Dr 520 feet 500 feet Elevation Level Terrain 80 feet starting at 2,170 Starting at 2,280 feet Starting at 2,100 feet Gain 1,750 feet 900 feet starting at 1,300

Males - 7,100 (30” stride) Males - 6,300 (30” stride) Pedometer Males - 1,050 (30” stride) Males - 11,600 / 4,200 (30” stride) Females - 9,000 (24” stride) Females - 7,900 (24” stride) Reading Females - 1,320 (24” stride) Females - 14,500 / 5,300 (24” stride) Trailhead 3.75 miles up Shasta Bally Road / Mill Creek Road or Location Crystal Creek Road Crystal Creek Road Brandy Creek Road South Shore Dr (see park map)

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: An Artist’s Park By Sheila Edridge, Western National Parks Association t is not unusual to see artists at work during have submitted and participated, including Iyour visit at Whiskeytown National Recre- painters, sculptors, photographers, writers, and ation Area. Artists are often inspired by the park’s musicians. Selected artists stay in our Artist’s waterfalls, spectacular vistas, majestic trees, and Cabin at Whiskeytown Lake for up to three the crystal-clear blue water of Whiskeytown Lake. weeks and have the opportunity to explore and Painters, photographers, and sculptors will spend interpret the park’s landscape. In addition, hours, days, and even weeks drawing inspiration regional artists are invited to submit residency from the park, whether as a park guest for the day, proposals and artists of distinction have been or being part of one of Whiskeytown’s official art invited to stay with us. programs. Whiskeytown’s art programs are made possible Within the national park system of nearly 400 through the sponsorship of the Western National individual units, Whiskeytown National Recre- Parks Association, The Friends of Whiskeytown, ation Area has the distinction of being one of and our partnerships with The Shasta County Arts fewer than thirty units with an ongoing National Council and Turtle Bay Exploration Park, with Parks Artist-in-Residence Program. Each year additional support from Redding’s Hawkman Stu- Whiskeytown advertises for professional art- dios, and Cornucopia Enterprises. For more in- ists to submit an application to become part of formation on Whiskeytown National Recreation our Artist-in-Residence Program. Established Area’s artist opportunities, please email inquiries Dawn At The Top professional artists from across the United States to [email protected] Chuck Prudhomme, oil on canvas

The Whiskeytown Nugget 4 Brandy Creek’s Forests go Back to Their Roots By Jennifer Gibson & Jeremiah Hockett hiskeytown’s visitors have long been in A recent study by Humboldt State the National Park Service will ensure that fu- Wawe of the beauty and diversity of the University has determined that the lack of fire ture generations can enjoy and learn from the park’s forests. A leisurely hike up the Brandy in much of the park’s high elevation forests has old-growth trees of Whiskeytown. Centuries Creek Falls or the Papoose Pass Trail will take created dense forest conditions in the park, and from now, these same trees will once again guide you to a picturesque place on the flanks of Shasta in some areas, an overall shift in forest species. those who venture into the forest, illuminating Bally where the call of birds and rushing white- These conditions threaten Whiskeytown’s old- the truths of nature and of a time forgotten. The water of Brandy Creek fill the air with nature’s growth forests by increasing the chance of cata- park’s forests will once more be a place where music. As beautiful the landscape appears, this strophic wildfire. Without frequent low-inten- words are unnecessary, and where beauty cannot forest has changed radically over the past 150 sity fires to burn out the understory, vegetation be explained, only felt. years. beneath the trees is now densely packed, creating Imagine yourself walking through an open fuel ladders that will carry flames upward into forest of old growth ponderosa pine and oak the lofty crowns. Overcrowded conditions also woodlands on a beautiful spring day. Patches of stress old-growth trees as the understory trees sunlight reach the forest floor through the open rob water, nutrients and sunlight away from their canopy of trees. Native grasses and wildflowers larger neighbors, which essentially need more emerge from the ashes, the result of a low inten- nutrients to support their large size. sity fire set intentionally by Native Americans In support of the local community, park to enhance forest resources for their livelihood. managers will collaborate with local contrac- The wisdom and strength of these magnificent tors and the Western Shasta Resource Conserva- trees, passed on through centuries, ignites curi- tion District to restore the forests around Sheep osity and beckons one to venture further into the Camp to their earlier health and vitality. The forest. overall goal is to retain and promote the develop- This ancient forest, once enjoyed by the Wintu ment of old-growth oaks and the large, vigorous people, is a stark contrast to the dense and mature conifers such as ponderosa pine, incense dark Douglas fir forest that currently dominates cedar, and sugar pine. Mechanical equipment the landscape in Whiskeytown. Although small will be used to remove or thin the understory stands of old-growth forests can still be found, and the ladder fuels that currently dominate this they are becoming rare in the park and through- landscape. Once competition is removed, the out the Pacific Northwest. These unique forests vigor and survivorship of overstory trees will be now serve as critical reservoirs of information, encouraged. In addition, adverse impacts associ- providing resource managers with reference con- ated with future fire events will be reduced, and ditions for ecological restoration as well as pro- the facilitation of future prescribed fire opera- viding valuable habitat for the park’s federally tions will be enhanced. A research assistant measures the diameter of an old- threatened Northern spotted owls. Through this extensive restoration project, growth Canyon Live Oak WHISKEYTOWN’S TOP 30 By Jim Richardson, Chief Ranger 1. Non-display of permit (Day use fee) Join the Friends of Whiskeytown! 2. Parking violations o help 3. Moving violations (Failure to stop at The Friends of Whiskeytown is a non- Tyou learn stop signs is the most common) profit organization dedicated to helping the some of the laws 4. Pets in closed areas 5. Pets off leash National Park Service restore and protect applicable within the magnificent resources and recreational 6. Alcohol on beaches Whiskeytown, we 7. Giving false information to officers opportunities at Whiskeytown. Your contri- compiled the top 30 8. Improper food storage bution of $25.00 or more will help the park 9. Camping without permit complete projects that would be otherwise law violations that 10. Camping in undesignated areas unfunded. visitors were con- 11. Present in a closed area tacted for last year. 12. Underage possession of alcohol For further information, call 530-242-3460 13. Bridge jumping or visit www.friendsofwhiskeytown.org Laws and regula- 14. Possession of controlled substances tions at Whiskey- (drugs) town are designed to protect the unique 15. Illegal off-road travel resources of the park, as well as the visitors 16. Obstructing traffic 17. Fishing without license and workers. 18. Illegal campfires Park regulations can be found at the 19. Unattended campfires Visitor Center, on road signs, park bulletin 20. Quiet hours violation 21. Disorderly conduct (usually alcohol boards, brochures, the Traveler Informa- related) tion System radio broadcast on 1440 AM, 22. Expired vehicle registration 23. Speeding The production of this park newspaper is made the park website, or in-person information 24. Feeding wildlife possible from the generous contributions of regarding specific activities. Park Rangers 25. Disturbing plants and wildlife the Western National Parks Association, whose are looking for compliance with the law in 26. Driving without license (or on mission is to “Promote preservation of the suspended license) national park system and its resources by order to provide visitors with opportunities for a safe and enjoyable park experience. 27. Hitchhiking creating greater public appreciation through 28. Theft education, interpretation, and research.” Please follow park regulations and ask for 29. Fishing out of season clarification if needed. 30. Drivers license not in possession Leave No Trace The National Park Service promotes responsible outdoor recreation. Please take a per- Be On The Lookout ! sonal role in preserving the outdoor experience for yourself and future generations while We all know to be alert for wildlife and dangerous trail conditions enjoying your visit at Whiskeytown. when we’re out in the park, but you should also be on the lookout for suspicious and illegal activities. Please follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace: There is a strong presence of marijuana cultivation in Whiskeytown. 1. Plan ahead and prepare Our ranger staff are seeking out and eradicating these illegal 2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces marijuana cultivation sites. If you see anything that you feel is 3. Dispose of waste properly unusual, care for your own safety first, and if you can, get a good 4. Leave what you find description of individuals, vehicles, and license plates and report it 5. Build fires in established fire grates only immediately to Whiskeytown dispatch at (530) 242-3431 or by calling 6. Respect wildlife 911 in an emergency. 7. Be considerate of other visitors Your safety increases when you stay on maintained, official trails For more information, visit the Leave No Trace program web site – www.LNT.org and hike or ride with others. Thank you!

The Whiskeytown Nugget 5 GENERAL INFORMATION & SERVICES RANGER GUIDED PROGRAMS

Visitor Center: Phones: Whiskeytown offers a variety of family friendly ranger-guided activities for everyone Located on Highway 299 and Kennedy Memorial A pay phone is located at the Visitor Center. from mid-June through the Labor Day weekend. These free activities are subject to Drive, the Visitor Center is open daily during the change as the park introduces new programs this summer. Visitors must display a summer from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. All permits and pass- Post Offices: valid day use pass or other park pass on all vehicles in the park. Please call the Visitor es are available here. A large selection of books French Gulch is open 8:00 am - 4:00 p.m. Mon- and postcards is also available. (530) 246-1225 day through Friday; Saturday 8:30 am - 10:30 am. Center at (530) 246-1225, visit our website at www.nps.gov/whis or call Clinton Kane at (530) 242-3451 for the latest information. Park Headquarters: Shasta is open 8:30 am - 5:00 p.m. (closed Open Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. noon - 1:00 p.m.); Saturdays 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Kayak Tours (2 ½ hours) Junior Firefighter Special Use Permits are available here. Hop on a kayak built for two and explore (530) 242-3400 Nearby Services & Attractions: Saturday 11 a.m. (1 hour) the quiet coves around Whiskeytown Lake See how firefighters manage fire to promote Radio: Shasta: Post Office, J’s Market, Mill House Deli. while you learn more about the natural and forest health and protect lives and property. Tune to 1440 on your AM radio for information Visit Shasta State Historic Park. Call (530) 243- cultural values of the park. All participants Learn about the important role that wild- about Whiskeytown. 8194 for current hours or for more information. must know how to swim and children must fire plays in our National Parks during this Launch Ramps and Fishing Piers: French Gulch: Post Office, French Gulch Hotel be at least six years old. Daily tours are hands-on activity. Meet at the Oak Bottom There are three boat ramps on the lake located at and Restaurant, E. Franck Bar. available and times vary from morning to Amphitheater. evening tours. For reservations up to two Whiskey Creek, Oak Bottom, and Brandy Creek Toddler Ranger Marina. There are ADA accessible fishing piers at Redding is 8 miles east and has all major ser- weeks in advance, call 530-242-3462. Ask Sunday 11 a.m. (1/2 hour) Whiskey Creek and Oak Bottom. vices. Visit Turtle Bay Exploration Park, 800 about arranging for a group tour (minimum Auditorium Drive. Call (530) 243-8850 for current of 12 people) for your friends and family, Kids 3 to 6 years of age can learn more about Marinas and Store: nature and the park during this special hours or for more information. business, or community group. Oak Bottom Marina operated by Forever Resorts program with a ranger. Meet at the Oak Hospitals & Clinics: provides gas, boat rentals, fishing supplies, souve- Moonlight Kayak Tours (2 ½ hours) Bottom Amphitheater. nirs and other items for sale. Experience dramatic changes in the Redding: Walk In Time (Includes gold panning!) Accessibility: Sunset Urgent Care - (530) 247-4211 landscape as you explore the lake under the light of the moon. Moonlight tours are Saturday and Sunday 3 p.m. (2 hours) There are ADA accessible picnic tables and swim Hilltop Medical Clinic West - (530) 246-4629 Discover how pioneer/prospectors Charles beach access platforms at Brandy Creek and Oak Shasta Regional Medical Center - (530) 244-5400 offered each month during the summer. For Camden and Levi Tower re-shaped the Bottom. Mercy Medical Center - (530) 225-6000 reservations up to two weeks in advance, call 530-242-3462. Space is limited to four landscape to create a home for their family reservations per phone call. and an “oasis” for the many travelers dur- TO REPORT AN EMERGENCY CALL 911 ing and after the California Gold Rush. Af- Special Access Kayak Program (2 hours) ter a tour of the 1852 home built by Charles Camping at Whiskeytown If you or someone you know is hesitant to Camden, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the join us on a kayaking adventure on Whis- apple orchard then try your hand at find- Oak Bottom Campground offers $18 per night lakeside tent sites, $16 per night tent sites, keytown Lake because of limited mobility, ing gold the old-fashioned way. Meet at the and $14 per night RV sites. Winter rates are $10 per site from Oct 15 through April 15. advanced age, disability, developmental Tower House Historic District parking lot. issues, or illness, the Special Access Kayak Specific sites may be reserved by calling the campground store at (530) 359-2269. There is Evening Programs an extra $2 daily fee per pet. Program may be perfect for you! Join one of our volunteer “kayak buddies” for a relaxing Friday and Saturday 9 p.m. (8:30 p.m. th Primitive Tent Campsites are available only on a first-come-first-served basis. Permits are evening paddle on the lake. Please call 530 beginning August 6 ) available at the Visitor Center. Rates are $10 per night. 242-3454 for more information or if you wish Spend the evening with a ranger and learn more about wonders of Whiskeytown Brandy Creek RV Campground offers sites on a first-come-first-served basis. Summer to volunteer for this very special program. through talks, slide shows, or other activi- rate is $14 per night and winter rate is $7 per night. It’s All About Nature! ties during this one-hour program. Topics Dry Creek Group Tent Campground offers two campsites (tents only) at $75 per site per Friday 3 p.m. (1 hour) include history, wildlife, and current issues night. Each site holds a minimum of 20 and a maximum of 50 people. The campground Join one of our local talents and learn about related to protecting the park’s natural and is open from April 1 to October 31. You may make reservations up to one year in advance the natural world of Whiskeytown through cultural resources. Meet at the Oak Bottom the art of storytelling followed by a hands- Amphitheater. by calling 1-877-444-6777 or by using the website www.recreation.gov. on activity with a ranger. The program is Water Safety Demonstration Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area offers three group day-use picnic areas that accomo- aimed primarily for preschool-age children. Saturday & Sunday date 40 - 50 people each at a rate of $40 or $50 per site depending on which site is reserved. Meet at the Visitor Center near the south Variable as staffing allows The picnic area is open from April 1 to October 31. You may make reservations up to one side of the parking lot. Saving someone from drowning while year in advance by calling 1-877-444-6777 or by using the website Junior Ranger keeping yourself at a safe distance depends www.recreation.gov. Campsites cloesd from November 1 through March 31. Saturday 10 a.m. (1 hour) on quick thinking, common sense, and the Kids 7 to 12 years of age can make new friends Note: Campers must purchase either a $5 daily, $10 weekly, or $25 annual pass for each ve- ability to use nearby objects. Join a Nation- during a special one-hour activity that al Park Service ranger and lifeguards for this hicle in addition to their campsite fee. explores the marvels of Whiskeytown. Meet enlightening water-safety demonstration at Please Help Keep Our Wildlife Wild - Do not feed bears or other park animals! at the Oak Bottom Amphitheater. Brandy Creek Beach.

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior PARK PASSES

Whiskeytown National Passes may be purchased at the Whiskeytown Visitor Center or at pay-by-envelope stations Recreation Area located throughout the park. Place your pass on the driver’s-side dashboard when you are in the park. By purchasing a pass, you are directly contributing to improvements at Whiskeytown. Whiskeytown Dam was dedicated in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy. Whiskey- town Lake was created as part of the Central Daily - $5 America the Beautiful - $80 Valley Project for the purposes of flood control, Valid at Whiskeytown on date of purchase only. Covers all National Park units and other federal irrigation, and power generation. With 42,000 recreation areas with entrance fees. Valid for acres in a beautiful mountain lake setting, Whis- Weekly- $10 one year from month of purchase. keytown is home to a variety of plants & wildlife. Operated by Forever Resorts Valid at Whiskeytown for seven days from date Superintendent of purchase. Jim F. Milestone For more information: Annual - $25 Chief of Administration Oak Bottom Marina Valid for one year from month of purchase. Colleen Bloxham Also honored at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Chief Ranger Reservations: (530) 359-2671 Jim Richardson 12485 State Highway 299, Facility Manager Dave Larabee Whiskeytown, CA 96095 Access Pass - Free Lifetime pass for U.S. citizens and permanent Chief of Fire Management www.whiskeytownmarinas.com residents who are permanently disabled. George Chapman

Chief of Resources & Interpretation Sean Denniston For Your Water-based Fun! Other passes accepted at Whiskeytown: Mailing Address P.O. Box 188 Golden Age, Access, and the Lassen Volcanic Whiskeytown, CA 96095 • Rent a ski boat, fishing boat, National Park Annual Pass. Website deck cruiser, canoe, or kayak www.nps.gov/whis • Launch ramp & slip rentals Senior Pass - $10 Fax Number Lifetime pass for U.S. citizens and permanent (530) 246-5154 • Convenience store residents who are 62 years or older. Park Headquarters • Snack bar (530) 242-3400 Publication of this paper was made possible by • RV Park & campground a donation from Western National Parks Asso- ciation, a non-profit organization dedicated to • Fuel dock & swim beach supporting interpretive efforts of the National • Overnight moorage Park Service. Editor: Jeremiah Hockett • Slip rentals Layout and graphics: Robert Gutierrez

The Whiskeytown Nugget 6