News Release

Return to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

News Release Date: August 27, 2026

MONTROSE, Colo. – Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will return to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 12:01 AM on Friday, August 28, 2026. The restrictions are in alignment with multiple state and federal partners in order to reduce the risk of fire in the region. Curecanti National Recreation Area returned to Stage 1 fire restrictions at 12:01 AM on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Pursuant to regulations of the Department of Interior, 36 Code of Federal Regulations, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Superintendent’s Compendium under §1.5 Closure and public use limits, §2.13 Fires, §2.21 Smoking, and §2.38 Explosives, the Superintendent imposed a Stage 2 Fire Restriction Order due to high fire danger weather. With an increase in precipitation, the Stage 2 Fire Restriction Order has been lifted, and a Stage 1 Fire Restriction Order is now in effect. Under a Stage 1 Fire Order, the following are prohibited:
 

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using wood or charcoal fires anywhere but within campground- or picnic area-provided grills or grates. (The use of gas grills and camp stoves is permitted.)
2. Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren of all flammable materials.
3. Discharging, or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on federal public lands.

Area Description:

• All lands within the boundaries of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Fire use by visitors in the parks is regulated to protect resources and visitors. The intent of Stage 1 fire restrictions is to reduce the number of human-caused fires during periods of very high fire danger by decreasing potential sources of ignition.

When necessary, National Park Service rangers will issue citations to persons violating the terms of this closure under authority of Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations 1.5(f) - punishable by up to $5,000 in fines and/or up to 6 months in jail.Information is available on the park’s website.

-NPS-

About the National Park Service.  Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

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