QUINCY, Calif. August 11, 2016 – The Frenchman boat dock at Frenchman Lake will be pulled shortly and will not be available for the rest of the summer due to low water conditions. Frenchman Lake is located near Portola, CA within the Plumas National Forest. The dock was pulled in late June last year due to low water.
The concrete boat ramp at the Frenchman boat launching facility will soon be above the water, but the shoreline directly below the ramp will be available to launch small craft such as canoes, kayaks and other types of small boats as long as the motorized vehicle and trailer stay on the concrete ramp surface. “If you do not require a handling dock or a concrete ramp to launch your craft then you can still use this facility to get out on the water,” said Matt Jedra, acting Beckwourth District Ranger. He recommends small craft owners use caution when launching any type of watercraft due to the low water levels.
For visitors who require a handling dock to assist in launching their watercraft, the handling dock at the Honker launching facility at the Lake Davis launch facility are available for use. Jet & water skiers may consider Lake Almanor or Antelope.
Unfortunately, low water levels may tempt people to drive vehicles along the shoreline. “Driving on the shoreline is not allowed,” said Jedra, noting all vehicles must stay on gravel or paved road surfaces. Operating or parking a motor vehicle outside of a designated area is a violation under 36 CFR 261.16(m). A violation of this regulation is subject to a penalty of not more than $5,000 or 6 months imprisonment, or both.
Camping is still available at all campgrounds in the Frenchman Lake area and other areas on the Ranger District. Please call the Beckwourth Ranger District at 530-836-2575 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas for more information.