SEDONA, AZ (CBS5) -
The Fossil Creek area of the Coconino National Forest is not closed and will be open over the Memorial Day weekend, according to a forest spokesman.
Brady Smith said a news release announcing that Fossil Creek would be closed as a precaution against wildfires was inadvertently sent to the media on Thursday, and that it was only a draft that was to be sent in the event the area was closed.
Smith said conditions remain dry and campfire restrictions will be enforced across the Coconino National Forest.
He said capacity will determine whether any recreationists are turned away.
Remaining open will be the entire Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs, Hackberry Mountain and Childs areas. Forest Road 708 at the State Route 260 junction and Forest Road 502 to Childs and the Verde River will also be open to public access.
The area contains unique native fish, geologic, scenic and recreation opportunities and water resources that will be protected as long as there's a risk of wildfire.
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