Good news! Beginning Friday, May 29th, Lassen Volcanic National Park will increase access with the opening of the 30-mile park highway, Butte Lake road, Warner Valley road, and all hiking trails (except Bumpass Hell). NOTE: When recreating, the public should follow California State guidance, practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding, and avoid high-risk outdoor activities. We advise bringing a face covering on the odd chance you may find yourself in an area where social distancing is not possible. Learn more about how you can recreate responsibly at Lassen Volcanic at go.nps.gov/lavo/RR.

We have enjoyed the birding and camping at the Lost Creek Group Campground for several years, so we are scheduling this event again this year in conjunction with Altacal Audubon. Group Camp sites #5 and #6 have been reserved for the nights of Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27. We are inviting the Redwood Region, Peregrine, Mendocino, Plumas and Redbud Chapters to join us.

Species expected include Osprey, Pileated Woodpecker, White-headed Woodpecker, Black-backed Woodpecker, Williamson’s Sapsucker, Vaux’s Swift, Common Nighthawk, Bufflehead, Gray Jay, Brown Creeper, American Dipper, Mountain Bluebird, Yellow Warbler, Western Tanager and Cassin’s Finch.
We will bird Manzanita Lake and vicinity on Saturday morning. The rest of the itinerary is open and will depend on the interests of the participants. Folks can either camp at Lost Creek or drive up for either or both Saturday and Sunday. Campers can arrive at the campsite at a time of their choosing on Friday after 1pm. Saturday day trippers should meet at the Loomis Museum parking lot at Manzanita Lake at 8:00 am. Day trippers for Sunday, June 27th, will meet at the campsite at 8:30 am.

Lost Creek has primitive facilities; pit toilets and no electricity. Potable water is available. During this time of Covid-19 it is important to follow all CDC guidance, including social distancing. This would include no carpooling other than with those in your own household.

Note: Lassen Park Entrance Fees

If a park, beach, or recreational facility is open for public use, visiting is okay as long as you practice social distancing and everyday steps such as washing hands often and covering coughs and sneezes. Follow these actions when visiting a park, beach, or recreational facility:

• Stay at least six feet from others at all times. This might make some open areas, trails, and paths better to use. Do not go into a crowded area.
• Avoid gathering with others outside of your household.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Bring hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to use if soap and water are not available.

Contact Larry Jordan, 949-5266 or email Webmaster@WintuAudubon.org for other particulars.

Here is a map to the Lost Creek Group Campground: https://bit.ly/2XDom6t

Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on their website at nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/conditions.htm