News Release

National Park Service Announces Fire Restrictions for Southeast Utah Parks

Date: May 18, 2018
Contact: Michelle Busbee, 435-719-2122

MOAB, UT—Due to very dry conditions and increasing fire danger in southeast Utah, Superintendent Kate Cannon has announced fire restrictions for Arches and Canyonlands national parks, and Natural Bridges and Hovenweep national monuments.

Beginning Friday, May 25, 2018, fires will be permitted only in designated fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Open fires are prohibited in backcountry campsites at all times. Petroleum-fueled stoves and grills will still be permitted in designated backcountry campsites, 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 should exercise caution and properly extinguish all lighted smoking materials.

In the river corridors where there are no designated campsites, petroleum-fueled stoves are the recommended method for cooking. Visitors camping in river corridors may also use a charcoal fire if the fire is completely contained in a metal fire pan.

Fireworks are prohibited at all times in these national parks. These fire restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.

For information on statewide fire restrictions, visit www.utahfireinfo.gov.