Campfire ban takes effect July 1 across Mt. Hood National Forest
Portable cooking stoves, lanterns and heating devices fueled by propane or other bottled fuels remain allowed because they can be turned off instantly.
From the Natonal Forest Service:
The Dalles, Ore., June 30, 2026 — Campfires and other open fires will be prohibited throughout the Mt. Hood National Forest beginning Wednesday, July 1, as federal officials respond to increasingly dry conditions and heightened wildfire danger.
The restrictions apply across the entire forest, including developed campgrounds. Campfires, charcoal and briquette fires, pellet fires and any other open fires are prohibited under the Forest Order.
Portable cooking stoves, lanterns and heating devices fueled by propane or other bottled fuels remain allowed because they can be turned off instantly.
Smoking is prohibited except inside an enclosed vehicle or building, within a designated campground, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that has been cleared of flammable material. Fireworks and other explosive devices remain prohibited on national forest lands year-round.
The U.S. Forest Service said the restrictions follow a dry spring and forecasts calling for continued warm, dry weather. Officials said public use fire restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect lives, homes, property and natural resources.
File photo - Eagle Creek Fire in 2017. Photo courtesy the U.S. Forest Service.
"This year has been dry and we're seeing conditions more typical of mid- to late-summer," said Dirk Shupe, Mt. Hood National Forest fire and aviation staff officer. "Forest visitors are a key part of preventing wildfires — following fire restrictions reduces wildfire risk and helps our firefighters to focus on naturally occurring wildfires, like those sparked by lightning."
The Forest Service notes that more than 80% of wildfires in Oregon are caused by people, making simple precautions such as following fire restrictions critical during the summer fire season.
Visitors planning trips to neighboring public lands, including the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, should check current fire restrictions before heading out. Information for the Gorge is available at:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/columbiarivergorge?utm_source=MarketingCloud&utm_medium=email
