Adventuring out to a National Forest to cut a Christmas tree for the holidays has been a treasured tradition for many generations. Selecting your tree from the many varieties of trees available in the northwest’s forests, as well as how you collect your Christmas Tree, can be half the fun.
There are some Guidelines and Restrictions for collecting your Christmas Trees.
There are two ways to purchase a permit to cut your own tree, online at https://www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/ which allows people the convenience of purchasing and printing permits from their homes, and at listed local vendor locations.
One permit is required for each Christmas tree, with Permits being $5.00 each in Oregon, and $10.00 each in California.
As part of the ‘Every Kid in a Park initiative’, ALL 4th graders are entitled to one FREE Christmas tree permit with a valid Every Kid in a Park pass.
To get the park pass, visit https://everykidoutdoors.gov and follow the instructions to get a paper voucher. You then can exchange that for a card at a Forest Service office.
Christmas tree permits must be validated and attached to your tree during transit.
In southwest Oregon and Northwest California, be sure to get one of the basic maps that are provided at the time you purchase your permit. Other Forest and District maps are available for sale.
Below are some of the types trees that you may see during your trip into our local National Forests and how you can identify them.
SHASTA FIR
Mature needles are dark blue-green. Newer growth is a silvery color.
Has stiff strong branches, great for heavier ornaments.
Holds needles and maintains color well.
DOUGLAS-FIR
Needles hold a blue to dark green color.
Needles radiate in all directions on the twig and are generally soft to the touch. The shape and positioning of needles on the twig make it resemble a pipe cleaner or bottle brush.
Can turn brown faster than other Firs even if put immediately into water after harvesting.
PACIFIC SILVER FIR
Needles are dark green on top with white lines underneath.
Needles point forward and upward rather than lying flat.
Stays green and holds needles well.
Before traveling to these local vendors to purchase a permit, it is advised that you call the vendor to be sure they still have permits to purchase.
In Brookings permits can be obtained at:
16220 Hoffeldt Lane, Brookings, OR
(541) 469-9151
In Gold Beach permits can be obtained at:
Rogue River-Siskiyou NF,
Gold Beach Ranger District,
Gold Beach Ranger Station, 29279 Ellensburg Avenue
Gold Beach, OR, (541) 247-3600
and…
29865 Ellensburg Ave., Gold Beach, OR
(541) 247-7142
In Crescent City, permits to cut your own tree in the Six Rivers National Forest are now available for $10.00 each and can be purchased at:
Chamber Visitor Ctr.
1001 Front Street,
Crescent City, CA
(707) 464-3174
Smith River NRA/Gasquet Ranger Dist.
10600 Highway 199,
Gasquet, CA
(707) 457-3131
To ensure your visit to the forest is an enjoyable and safe experience, please be sure to consider these important tips:
Let someone know where you’re going and your estimated return time.
Bring cold-weather clothing, even if the day is nice when you start out.
Bring emergency food and water, first-aid kit, tire chains, and shovel.
Have a full tank of gas in your vehicle and don’t forget to bring a map.
Don’t forget to bring your tag–you’ll need to attach it to your tree! For all outdoor activities this time of year, be prepared for winter weather. Check weather and road conditions prior to departure and always travel with a full tank of gas. Travel with adequate supplies such as warm clothing, blankets/sleeping bags, high energy food, water, warm beverages, first aid kit, flashlight, whistle, mirror, shovel, chains, and maps. You should always let someone know where you plan to harvest your tree and your expected return time. All offices will be closed Thursday, November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving.
