Annual campfire restrictions will go into effect May 13 on certain BLM land in Central Oregon. Campfires will be prohibited along portions of the Crooked, Deschutes, John Day and White Rivers, as well as on BLM-administered lands along Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus.
“Protecting the safety of the public and employees is always our top priority. Central Oregon is a popular place for outdoor recreation, especially around rivers and waterways in the summer. Campfire restrictions are being implemented earlier than in previous years in response to current seasonal conditions,” said Kyle Hensley, acting district manager for the Prineville District.
The river fire closures prohibit campfires, charcoal fires, or any other type of open flame. This includes a ban on the use of portable propane campfires and wood pellet burning devices. Commercially manufactured lanterns and metal camp stoves used for cooking are allowed, when fueled with bottled propane or liquid fuel and operated in a responsible manner. Under the restrictions, smoking is not allowed except inside vehicles or on the water.
Restrictions will remain in effect until October 15, 2026. A violation of this closure is punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both.
For details on campfire closures and specific locations on BLM lands, please refer to the river closure order. You can also call the Prineville BLM District Office at (541) 416-6700 or visit Fire Restrictions – Oregon-Washington Bureau of Land Management for more information about these closures and other fire restrictions in Central Oregon.
Additional information about public use restrictions on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the BLM Prineville District fire activity in Central Oregon is available online at: https://centraloregonfire.org/
