High heat and dry conditions create increased potential for wildfire
information and graphics released
Campfire restrictions go into effect on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest on July 14, 2023. Starting today, campfires will be allowed only in designated developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness Areas (except in those wilderness areas where campfires are never allowed). In all other areas, including dispersed camping areas, campfires will be prohibited.
“Our Forest Fire Management personnel have been closely monitoring fuels conditions across the forest over the past month. Fuel moistures have dropped and fire danger has risen. We have had several small fires on the Forest and it is time for us to put in place campfire restrictions to reduce the chances of human-caused starts,” said Forest Supervisor Kristin Bail. “This first phase of restrictions means that campfires will only be allowed in certain designated campsites where the potential for escaped fires is reduced.
Forest visitors are reminded that fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices, including exploding targets, are illegal year-round in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. “Any spark, whether it be from a dragging tow chain, a cigarette, an exploding target, or a firework has the potential to cause a wildfire right now,” Bail said.
Some special sites, such as group camps and summer homes operated under permit, are exempt from this order. Please visit or call the appropriate ranger station to obtain information on specific campground restrictions.
Forest visitors may continue to use pressurized or bottled liquid fuel stoves, lanterns, or heating devices, provided such devices are used in areas that are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable material within 3 feet of the device and meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest fire managers remind hikers, campers, and recreationists to be extremely careful with any use of fire in the outdoors this summer. Escaped campfires are a leading cause of human-caused wildland fires on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Campfires typically become problems when campers fail to completely extinguish them before leaving campsites.
Information is also available on the forest website at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/okawen/campfires
