Campers planning to spend time outdoors in Josephine County this summer will encounter new fire restrictions at several county parks as officials respond to persistent extreme wildfire conditions across Southern Oregon.
Effective immediately, the Josephine County Recreation Department has prohibited all wood and charcoal fires at Wolf Creek Park and Campground, Lake Selmac Park and Campground, and Almeda Park and Campground. The restrictions include traditional campfires, charcoal briquettes, and charcoal barbecue grills in an effort to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during one of the most dangerous periods of the fire season.
Although wood and charcoal fires are no longer permitted at those three locations, visitors may continue using propane-fueled camp stoves, barbecue grills, and propane fire pits. Recreation officials emphasize that all propane appliances must be operated safely, remain attended while in use, and be used responsibly to help prevent accidental fires.
The temporary restrictions reflect growing concerns over the region’s prolonged hot, dry weather and elevated wildfire danger, conditions that have already placed heavy demands on firefighters throughout Southern Oregon this summer. County officials say the precautions are intended to protect public lands, campers, nearby homes, and surrounding communities from preventable fire starts.
At all other Josephine County campgrounds, wood-burning campfires remain allowed only within designated fire rings. Recreation officials are urging visitors to exercise extreme caution by never leaving a fire unattended and ensuring every fire is completely extinguished before departing a campsite. Even small embers left behind can reignite under dry, windy conditions and quickly spread into surrounding vegetation.
County officials anticipate the restrictions will remain in place throughout the remainder of the summer camping season as long as extreme fire danger continues. They also caution that additional county parks and campgrounds could be added to the restriction list if weather conditions worsen or fire activity increases.
The Recreation Department says it will continue monitoring conditions in coordination with fire agencies and will adjust park regulations as needed to help safeguard visitors and public resources.
“Protecting our parks, our visitors, and our surrounding communities is our highest priority,” Recreation Director Tamra Martin said. “We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we work together to reduce the risk of wildfire during these challenging conditions.”
Martin also encouraged residents and visitors to check current fire restrictions before traveling to county parks and to report unattended or unsafe fires immediately so they can be addressed before they become emergencies.
With thousands of residents and visitors expected to enjoy Southern Oregon’s parks and campgrounds during the remaining weeks of summer, county officials say public cooperation will play an important role in reducing wildfire risk. By following fire restrictions, using approved equipment responsibly, and remaining vigilant while recreating outdoors, campers can help protect Josephine County’s forests, parks, wildlife, and neighboring communities during an active and potentially dangerous fire season.