News Release

Crews suppressing wildland fire in Yellowstone National Park

Aerial view of the Ash Fire on July 30, 2025.

NPS / Matt Mason

News Release Date: July 30, 2025

Contact: Public Affairs Office, [phone]

• On the afternoon of July 30, Yellowstone helitack crews on an aerial reconnaissance mission detected the Ash Fire in the Bechler area located in the southwest corner of Yellowstone National Park.
• Immediate suppression efforts were taken. The fire is currently estimated to be over 10 acres in size.
• Approximately 25 personnel are currently assigned to the fire. Resources include U.S. Forest Service smokejumpers, park helicopter with crew, Yellowstone’s Fire Module, Type 3 helicopter, and a heavy helicopter.
• Closures to trail and backcountry campsites in the area are in effect. Check for locations and updates at backcountry conditions.
• The Ash Fire was most likely ignited by lightning. The park has received over 350 lightning strikes in the last 24 hours.
• This is a developing situation and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

• Yellowstone firefighters have responded to multiple wildfires throughout the park since the beginning of July. In recent weeks, over 500 lightning strikes from thunderstorms have resulted in six wildfires in the park’s backcountry. Firefighters have worked diligently to suppress all wildland fires upon detection.

Stay informed and help prevent wildfires 

• The parkwide fire danger level for Yellowstone is HIGH. High fire danger means wildfires are likely to start easily from various causes and can spread rapidly. Fires in heavy, continuous fuel, such as mature grassland and forest litter, will be difficult to control under windy conditions.
• Campfires are only allowed within the fire rings in campgrounds and at some, not all, backcountry campsites.
• All campfires must be attended at all times and be cold to the touch before abandoning. Soak, stir, feel, and repeat until out cold.
• Check the park’s website for current fire activity and updates to fire danger levels. Restrictions may be implemented if fire danger levels increase.

Learn More

• 

  Current Fire Activity

  A list of active fires in the park.

• 

  Fire Management

  Learn how the park balances the benefits and threats of fire on the landscape.

• 

  Backcountry Conditions

  Check the map for trail status and review detailed conditions. Use in conjunction with weather reports and assessment of your own skill.