Matsutake mushroom season opens September 16 on the Mount Shasta and McCloud Ranger Districts of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Anyone harvesting Matsutake mushrooms on National Forest System lands during the fall season must purchase a valid commercial harvest permit. Harvesting without a permit may result in a citation.

Permit options:
$20 minimum for four consecutive days / up to 20 pounds
$100 for 30 consecutive days / up to 100 pounds
$200 season permit / up to 200 pounds

Permit holders must keep a harvest log showing picking dates and pounds harvested.

Where to purchase permits:

McCloud Ranger Station
2019 Forest Road, McCloud
Tuesday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Closed 12–12:30 p.m. for lunch
Saturday, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday
Phone: (530) 964-2184

Mount Shasta Ranger Station
204 W. Alma St., Mount Shasta
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Phone: (530) 926-4511

Cash, check and credit card payments are accepted.

Dates: September 16–November 30, 2026
Location: Mount Shasta and McCloud Ranger Districts, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Permit Required: Yes — commercial harvest permit required
Age Requirement: Harvesters must be 18 or older with valid ID

Harvesters should avoid raking or disturbing ground cover and must pack out all trash. Special camping regulations are in effect during mushroom season, and current fire restrictions prohibit campfires and briquette-style barbecues outside designated fire-safe areas or paid campsites.

For current harvesting, camping and fire-restriction information, contact the Mount Shasta or McCloud ranger station.