© CBS 5PAYSON, AZ (CBS5) -
Tonto National Forest officials are modifying a closure order enacted last month in the wake of bear attacks in the Payson Ranger District.
"With the increased live fuel moistures, we should have improved vegetation production for the bears," said District Recreation Specialist Rachel Hohl.
The area closure went into effect June 24. The modified closure order goes into effect immediately.
These are the campground requirements addressed by the current order:
Sharp Creek will reopen.
Christopher Creek will reopen. Only hard-sided campers are authorized. The Christopher Creek day-use area will have garbage removed every evening by the host and will receive a bear-proof trash can.
Upper Tonto will reopen. Only hard-sided campers are authorized.
Tonto Walk-In (Lower Tonto) remains closed to overnight usage (a tent camping campground only). Open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Houston Mesa/Horse Camp is currently open.
Dispersed camping areas:
405/405A Dispersed Loop (including Bear Flats and Lower Tonto Creek): Open for day-use only (no camping): 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Upper Tonto Creek Dispersed Area and Horton Trail Area (Hwy 260 to Hatchery): Open for day-use only (no camping): 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ponderosa Campground remains closed for the season.
Christopher Creek campground is 19 miles northeast of Payson on State Highway 260. There are 43 camp units available with tables, grills, trash service and campfire rings provided.
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