Fire restrictions take effect on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Due to increased risk of wildfires, Gifford Pinchot National Forest fire managers have issued restrictions on campfires, smoking and other activities within the forest. The restrictions were implemented effective July 1.

Prohibitions include:

-Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire, including a charcoal fire and pellet fire on all National Forest System lands. Portable cooking stoves, lanterns and heating devices using liquefied or bottled fuel, such as propane, are allowed as they can be switched off instantly.

-Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a designated campground, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

-Possessing, discharging or using any kind of firework or other explosive device is prohibited year-round on national forest lands.

-Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order and within a 10-foot diameter cleared of all flammable material.

-Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame.

-Use of vehicles off designated National Forest System roads and trails as shown on the Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map, available at https://tinyurl.com/yc5yrd39.

Nearly nine out of 10 wildfires nationwide are human caused and can be prevented, according to a news release from the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Residents can check the local and regional fire outlook at https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/predict/outlook.aspx.

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This story was originally published July 2, 2026 at 11:28 AM.