News Release

2021 Fire Restrictions Updated in Southeast Utah Group National Parks

Unwanted, human caused fires can have devastating effects. Photo of charred vegetation from a past fire at Upheaval Bottom in Canyonlands.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: August 3, 2021

Contact: Michelle Busbee, 435-719-2122

Due to recent precipitation but persistent very dry conditions and increased fire danger in Southeast Utah, Superintendent Patricia S. Trap has announced updated fire restrictions for Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments.

Beginning at 12:01 am on Friday, August 6, 2021, only charcoal fires will be permitted, and only in designated fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic areas, and along the river corridor. Open fires are prohibited in the backcountry at all times. Petroleum fueled stoves and grills will still be permitted in designated backcountry campsites and zones, as well as in developed campgrounds and picnic areas.

Smoking is prohibited, except within enclosed vehicles, parking lots or developed areas that are cleared of all flammable materials for at least three feet in diameter. Visitors are reminded to exercise caution and to properly extinguish all lighted smoking materials.

Open fires are prohibited along the river corridor and in backcountry campsites; petroleum fueled stoves are the recommended method for cooking. At this time, charcoal fires used only for cooking and inside of authorized metal fire pans (at least 12 inches in diameter and 2 1/2 inches deep) are still allowed in the river corridor and in designated vehicle campsites. A portable water source must be immediately available next to the cooking area. As always, all ash must be removed from the backcountry.

Fireworks are prohibited at all times in these national parks.

These fire restrictions will remain in effect until further notice. Information on statewide fire restrictions can be found at www.utahfireinfo.gov.