News Release

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions

Date: June 30, 2026

MONTROSE, Colo. – Black Canyon and Curecanti will move to Stage 2 fire restrictions at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. The restrictions are in alignment with multiple state and federal partners in order to reduce the risk of fire in the region.

Pursuant to regulations of the Department of Interior, 36 Code of Federal Regulations, andthe Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation AreaSuperintendent’s Compendia under sections 1.5 Closure and public use limits, 2.13 Fires,2.21 Smoking, and 2.38 Explosives, during periods of high fire danger weather, thefollowing acts are prohibited:
 

1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire is prohibited in all areas of the parks, including charcoal fires. Properly shielded gas or liquid-fueled portable camp stoves are allowed.
2. Smoking is prohibited, except within a personally-owned enclosed vehicle.
3. Discharging, or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on all federal public land, including both Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area.

Area Description: • All lands within the boundaries of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park andCurecanti National Recreation Area.

Fire use by visitors in the parks is regulated to protect resources and visitors. The intent of Stage 2 Fire Restrictions is to reduce the number of human-caused fires during periods of very high fire danger by decreasing potential sources of ignition. 

Montrose, Delta, and Gunnison Counties are experiencing critical fire conditions--extremely dry fuels, above normal temperatures, low humidity, minimal precipitation, and high winds. As many fires ignite across the west, competition for firefighting resources remains high.

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 each park’s website: www.nps.gov/blca and www.nps.gov/cure.

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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.