Campfires, charcoal prohibited in eastern Washington state parks

OLYMPIA – June 25, 2021 – Washington State Parks is prohibiting wood campfires and charcoal use in state parks east of the Cascades beginning today, June 25. Western Washington state parks may have local restrictions.

With extreme hot and dry conditions affecting the entire state, the campfire ban is necessary to help prevent accidental wildfires. 

Eastern Washington state parks are under a level 3 campfire ban or higher. A level 3 ban prohibits wood and charcoal fires but allows for gas and propane camp stoves and firepits.. 

For areas in western Washington where campfires are allowed, campers should make sure the fires are completely doused and cool to the touch before leaving. 

Plan ahead

Campers and visitors to state parks should always check ahead before heading out to learn what — if any — restrictions might be in place, so they can plan accordingly. And campers should be prepared for the possibility of sudden changes to any campfire restrictions due to emerging conditions when they arrive at a state park.

For more information about State Parks’ campfire ban levels and to find out what campfire restrictions are in place at a specific state park, people should check the agency’s burn ban web page. Or, they can check a specific park’s web page. 

Riverside State

Park ORV area closed

The main off-road vehicle (ORV) and beginner riding areas will be closed temporarily starting Saturday, June 26, due to extreme weather conditions and high fire danger. The closure will be in place until further notice.

For more information about the Riverside State Park ORV restriction, contact Lara Gricar, (509) 465-5066.