A picnic area at Hobo Camp, a popular public land site along the Bizz Johnson Trail, will be named in honor of Susanville residents George and Diana Farris in a ceremony Friday, Oct. 31, at 1 p.m. The public is invited.

Stan Bales, an outdoor recreation planner with the U. S. Bureau of Land Management, said the picnic area, in a pine grove along the Susan River, will be named “Farris Grove at Hobo Camp.” A plaque will commemorate the new picnic site name. 

“George and Diana showed incredible community spirit in keeping the area open for public recreation and access to the Susan River Canyon,” Bales said. “Long before the area became public land, George and Diana recognized its importance in the quality of life for our community. This dedication is a small token of gratitude.”

The BLM bought the property for public ownership in 1981 and established it as a trailhead for the Bizz Johnson Trail. Over the years, the BLM installed picnic tables and barbecues, built restrooms, improved parking, and completed a trail linking the site to the Bizz Johnson Trail.

To reach Hobo Camp, take Richmond Road to South Street. Turn west and follow South Street to the gravel access road which is marked with signs. Walkers and bicyclists can reach the area by following the Bizz Johnson Trail from the Susanville Railroad Depot, South Lassen Street or Miller Road trailheads. The site is about a quarter mile from town.