News Release
Bureau of Land Management
News Release Date: October 5, 2026
Investigators with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service determined that the fire, which burned in the Lower Springs area of the remote campground, was accidentally started when a propane grill ignited a palm tree. The fire is fully contained, and National Park Service staff continue to monitor the area and assess damage to park infrastructure and natural and cultural resources.
“The safety of park visitors is our top priority,” said Superintendent Mike Reynolds. “Although the fire is contained, residual heat and hazardous materials remain in the burn area. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we move into the next phase of cleanup and recovery.”
The immediate burn area remains closed to entry. Visitors should not enter the closed area or attempt to repair or replace infrastructure damaged by the fire. Areas now open include Palm Spring, the camping area between Lower Spring and Palm Spring, and the double-vault toilet at Lower Spring.
A Department of the Interior post-fire recovery team will assess the burned area in mid-October. The team will evaluate damaged and destroyed NPS infrastructure, impacts to natural and cultural resources, and safety hazards, including a large bank of partially burned batteries. Debris and hazardous materials are expected to be removed in early winter.
The fire does not change the National Park Service’s management of California fan palms at Saline Valley Warm Springs. Under the Saline Valley Warm Springs Management Plan, existing mature palms are allowed to remain for the duration of their natural lives. When palms die, they are removed and replaced with native vegetation. New California fan palms are not allowed to establish because the species is not native to Death Valley National Park and is considered invasive.
Many palms affected by the fire still have green fronds and are expected to survive. Even some that appear severely burned may produce new fronds in the coming months. The NPS will monitor affected palms and remove only those determined to be dead, consistent with the existing management plan.
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.