You are here

Home » Fire Ban Comes To Zion National Park

Fire Ban Comes To Zion National Park

Share

Published Date

August 2, 2023

A ban on wood and charcoal fires in Zion National Park took effect Wednesday/NPS

A fire ban took effect Wednesday at Zion National Park in Utah, where officials said only stoves and grills fueled by propane, butane, or white gas were allowed to be used in the Watchman and South campgrounds.

The ban on wood and charcoal fires and the use of cigarettes and cigars in the open followed in the wake of a campground fire (top photo) last Saturday. Quick response limited the fire to about a quarter-acre, according to park staff.

“National Park Service and interagency partners’ wildland firefighters suppressed a fire that burned part of Watchman Campground on Saturday, July 29,” said Lyndsay Fonger, the park's fire management officer. “It’s important that you not smoke near dry plants or build campfires in Zion Canyon to protect people, property, and the park itself.”

Fire Restrictions

  • Setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a campfire (including charcoal) in South and Watchman campgrounds, at picnic areas, or permanently improved places of habitation is prohibited.
    • Stoves and grills fueled by petroleum fuels such as Liquid Propane Gas (LPG), butane, or white gas are allowed.
  • Smoking in vegetated areas is not allowed. 
    • No smoking except in an enclosed vehicle, or a developed recreation site clear of vegetation, or other areas devoid of vegetation with a minimum of three (3) feet in diameter of clear soil.
Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.

Conditions At Zion

Wet winter and spring weather contributed to the growth of many grasses and other plants throughout Zion National Park. Now that plants are drying out, an accidental fire start makes it more likely that these plants could burn quickly, a park release said. Grasses and other dry fuels present a significant fire danger to park visitors and facilities, especially at the campgrounds in Zion Canyon. 

Use Fire Sense

No matter when you visit Zion, and especially in hot, dry summer months, remember:

  • Your car engine may be hot, especially after long drives. Park away from dry plants.
  • Check chains on trailers to make sure they don't drag under your car.
  • Using fireworks is prohibited all the time on public lands.

Related Stories:

Wyoming Seeking Federal Land Grab, Utah Wants To Co-Manage National Parks

Stories about:

Story Categories:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.