Large portions of the Prescott National Forest along Highway 260 will be closed to campers for the next two years. The restricted areas are within the Verde Ranger District, along Highway 260. 

"Over the past few years, dispersed camping in these areas and high use has caused significant resource damage to soil and water quality; as well as abandoned property, trash, and sanitation issues creating an unsafe environment for other forest users and continued resource degradation," the U.S. Forest Service said in a press release.

The restrictions go into effect Thursday and are set to last through January 2023 or until the order is rescinded. 

Those violating the order may face thousands in fines and a misdemeanor charge. Law enforcement, rescue and fire officials, or people with written Forest Service authorization are exempt from the order.