Forest Service reopens Blankenship to camping
The Flathead River at the Blankenship Bridge. (JP Edge)
Hungry Horse News
The Flathead National Forest has reopened the Blankenship gravel bar for overnight camping. The area was closed to camping the past few weeks due to high water levels.
The Forest Service is asking folks to camp responsibly and adhere to the regulations posted at the gravel bar.
“The gravel bar downstream from Blankenship Bridge is a unique and beautiful site that provides riverside camping and access to the Wild and Scenic Flathead River. Please use the provided portable toilet facilities, never leave campfires unattended, follow food storage order, pack out all garbage and respect the three-day stay limit” said Hungry Horse-Glacier View District Ranger Rob Davies. “Please recreate responsibly so future generations can enjoy this site”.
A group of concerned residents calling itself Friends of the Flathead River filed suit against the Forest Service May 16 claiming the agency is violating the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, The Forest Service Organic Act and the Administrative Procedures Act for allowing people to camp there.
They claim there is a lack of oversight, garbage and human waste issues at the primitive camp.
A federal judge recently heard arguments in the case. The lawsuit is asking the court to shut the camp down while the case is heard.
The court has yet to rule on the matter.
In the interim, the Forest Service is asking folks to:
• Respect wildlife - Educate yourself on recreating safely in bear county. Proper bear food storage is required.
• Dispose of waste properly - if you do not have a self-contained camping unit then please use the portable toilets provided. There is no garbage service at Blankenship so plan to pack out trash.
• Minimize campfire effects - Campfires are allowed and the Forest encourages campers to use firepans or fire blankets. Please remember to make sure that all campfires are dead out when not attended.
• Be considerate of others - Please be kind to others and help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all users.