Single Publication

Fire restrictions are in effect for the Klamath National Forest today, July 4, 2024. These restrictions are designed to help minimize the chances of human-caused wildland fires. Human-caused fires, which range from escaped campfires, careless smokers, equipment use, vehicle exhaust, catalytic converters, parking on dry grass, or children playing with matches, are preventable. Due to recent exceptional heat and rapid drying of fuels, these restrictions also apply to wilderness areas.

Some of the fire restrictions in effect include:

• Campfires, stove fires, and barbecue grills using charcoal briquettes are only allowed in open developed recreation sites, such as campgrounds (no permit required).
• Smoking is limited to inside enclosed vehicles or buildings, within developed recreation sites, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
• Operating an internal combustion engine, except on National Forest System roads or trails, or within developed recreation sites is prohibited.
• Welding or operating an acetylene torch or other torch with an open flame is prohibited. 

Outside of developed recreation sites, Forest visitors with a valid California Campfire Permit will still be able to use pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills, or lanterns with shut-off valves, in an area that is cleared at least five feet of any flammable materials. Permits may be obtained at any forest office or online at https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/

For a complete list of fire restrictions and a list of developed recreation sites for the Klamath National Forest visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1187464.pdf.

If visitors choose to have a campfire within a listed developed recreation site, follow these safety tips to prevent starting a wildfire: 

• Clear all flammable materials from the ground for five feet in all directions from the edge of the fire and make sure it is located away from overhanging limbs. Only use developed fire rings.
• Have a shovel and water nearby.
• Keep your campfire small and only use dead and downed wood...don’t cut live trees for firewood.
• Make sure a responsible adult is always in attendance of your campfire. NEVER leave a campfire unattended!
• Always make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it! Drown it with plenty of water, stir well with a shovel, feel to see if it is hot, REPEAT. If it is too hot to touch, then it is too hot to leave.