Campfires still allowed in designated campgrounds and certain Wilderness areas

information released; USFS file photo

As summer temperatures continue to rise and vegetation gets drier, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest will go into effect on Friday June 19, 2026.

“Protecting our forests and communities is a shared responsibility. As things continue to heat up across Central Washington, fire restrictions are an important step in reducing the risk of human‑caused wildfires. We’re asking everyone to do their part by staying vigilant, respecting the restrictions, and helping keep our public lands safe for all,” said David Farmer, Acting Forest Supervisor.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions prohibit open fires, including wood stoves and charcoal briquette fires, outside of designated campgrounds or special areas with established fire rings or grills or certain designated Wilderness areas.

Additionally, under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, designated campground, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material. Traveling off developed roads and trails also is not allowed, except minimum travel over bare mineral soil, to access dispersed camping.

Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest System lands.

The following activities and uses are ALLOWED on the Forest during Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:

  • Campfires contained inside established fire rings or grills at designated recreation sites or special areas.
  • Campfires in designated Wilderness areas, except locations where they are never allowed.
  • Pressurized or bottled liquid fuel stoves, lanterns, or heating devices when used in areas that are clear of all overhead and surrounding flammable material within 3 feet of the device. Device must have a functioning on-off switch or valve that can extinguish the fire immediately.  This includes propane fire alternatives that meet the stated requirements.
  • Recreational shooting, except where otherwise prohibited.

For complete details on what is and is not allowed, including a list of designated recreation sites and exemptions visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts/stage-1-fire-restrictions 

Firewood permit holders are reminded to check and comply with Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPL). As IFPL increase, prohibitions on chainsaw use may limit opportunities to gather firewood. Permit holders are encouraged to get their firewood as soon as possible. Firewood permits are available online at https://epermits.fs2c.usda.gov/forest/0617. 

Para obtener información en español visite: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/newsroom/releases/stage-1-fire-restrictions-go-effect-june-19