Campfires temporarily banned at majority of Oregon parks due to dry conditions, wildfires

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A temporary ban on campfires and open flames is now in effect at most Oregon state parks due to dry conditions and nearby wildfires.

According to Oregon Parks and Recreation, the ban is designed to avoid putting a strain on firefighting resources already stretched thin by preventing any new fires from popping up.

All parks east of the Cascades and many others across the state, including some restrictions at certain coastal parks, will have the ban in place until conditions improve, officials said.

“We understand that campfires are an important part of the experience at Oregon State Parks. We don’t make the decision lightly to restrict the use of fire, but unfortunately conditions require that response. The decision is made in consultation with our local fire agencies. Thank you for helping us do our part to reduce the risk of any new wildfires,” said JR Collier, OPRD’s deputy of statewide operations.

Though the ban on campfires and open flames will be in effect for most parks, there may be exceptions for propane cooking since the flame is contained, officials said. However, it's necessary to check Oregon Parks' website to see the specific restrictions that apply to individual parks. Some parks have also been closed due to wildfires.

Some roads and highways have also closed due to wildfires, which can be seen on TripCheck. Nearby wildfires could impact air quality at Oregon Parks, which can be looked up on the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality's website.

The Oregon Department of Forestry's website also has information about current wildfires. For more about wildfire prevention, visit the Oregon State Fire Marshal's website.