High Sierra Topix

FYI: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/inyo/conditions/

I assume they are basically saying no campfires in the forest! Can anyone clarify this? I will call the ranger station in the next day or two anyway.

I'm glad my kids had their first backpacking trip two weeks ago, and that it included campfires.

Personally though I think campfires are a bother when backpacking so it's fine if future trips are fire-free.

Usually means campfires are only allowed in developed campgrounds, like where you would car camp and pay to stay, no campfires allowed while out bping or camping out in the boonies.

That order appears rather restrictive. It includes stove fires, without specifically naming or exempting propane or liquid fuel stoves like many forest orders do. It appears if your backcountry campsite is not specifically mentioned on the Exhibit A list and you are below 9,000 feet, then no fire of any kind. Better get used to cold meals.

Above 9,000 you can have as big a bonfire as you want, (unless you are in a no wood fire zone).

"... persons with a valid California Campfire Permit are allowed to use a portable stove or lantern using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel..."

Your wilderness permit also acts as a campfire permit. If you want to be doubly sure you can get a separate annual campfire permit when you pick up your wilderness permit.

jimqpublic wrote:"... persons with a valid California Campfire Permit are allowed to use a portable stove or lantern using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel..."

Your wilderness permit also acts as a campfire permit. If you want to be doubly sure you can get a separate annual campfire permit when you pick up your wilderness permit.

OOPS!!

Looks like I read the order too fast.

Since the campfire permits are available instantly on-line, there really is no excuse not to have one.

Here's a similar directive for SEKI:


Subject: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Effective July 11, 2008
From: Alex_Olow@nps.gov
Date: Wed, 9 Jul 2008 12:08:39 -0700

For your information please find attached, details regarding the "Stage 1 Fire Restrictions" being implemented in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Friday July 11, 2008.
Entrance stations, visitor centers, campgrounds, and concessionaire locations should print the attached pdf and distribute so that visitors and employees are informed of these restrictions. [Note: this .pdf document will be up on our website by July 10]

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Institute Fire Restrictions

Due to high fire danger, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are instituting fire restrictions inside the parks.
Beginning Friday, July 11, 2008:

• No wood or barbecue fires are permitted below 6,000 feet, except in designated campgrounds. This includes Ash Mountain Picnic Area, Hospital Rock Picnic Area and backcountry travel below 6,000 feet. Gas or propane stoves may be used at all elevations.

• No smoking below 6,000 feet is permitted, except within a developed area, a campground, an enclosed vehicle, or a building which allows smoking.

Fire restrictions reduce the possibility of an accidental human-caused fire that could threaten visitors and employees during times of high fire danger. If further restrictions are necessary in the future due to changing conditions, the parks will make another public announcement.

Alex Olow
Forestry Technician
Fire Education and Prevention
559-565-4287
Alex_Olow@nps.gov