Vancouver, Wash., — Due to increased risk of wildfires, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest fire managers have issued restrictions on campfires, smoking, and other activities within the forest. These restrictions will begin July 1, 2026.
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 three 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 (MVUM).
Nearly nine out of ten wildfires nationwide are human caused and can be prevented. Everyone can do their part to help prevent wildfires. The focus of preventing unwanted human-caused ignitions is more relevant today than ever before as we enter a drier and warmer summer than in past years.
Neighboring national forests are also beginning to enact public use restrictions for the wildfire season. Find more about restrictions and fire safety on adjacent lands:
