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MONTROSE, Colo. – Curecanti National Recreation Area will return to Stage 1 fire restrictions at 12:01 AM on Friday, August 21, 2026. The restrictions are in alignment with multiple state and federal partners in order to reduce the risk of fire in the region. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will remain at Stage 2 Fire Restrictions until further notice.
Pursuant to regulations of the Department of Interior, 36 Code of Federal Regulations, and Curecanti National Recreation Area Superintendent’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, the following acts are prohibited:
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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.)
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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.
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Discharging or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on federal public lands, including Black Canyon and Curecanti.
Area Description:
- All lands within the boundaries of Curecanti National Recreation Area.
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.
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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.
Last updated: August 20, 2026