Campfire ban lifted at Oregon coast state parks

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced Wednesday it has lifted the ban on campfires and open flames in state parks along the coast, though it remains in effect elsewhere, including ocean beaches.

The campfire and open flame ban remains in effect for the ocean beaches and all other state park properties managed by OPRD. It applies to wood, charcoal and other sources that cannot be “turned off” with a valve. The ban includes campgrounds and day-use areas.

Flame sources that are operated by a valve are exempt from the ban. However, valve-operated propane fire pits are allowed in coastal parks and on beaches only. Propane fire pit use is banned in all other state park properties.

The extended campfire ban is expected to last at least a week, but will be evaluated based on weather, resource conditions and input from Oregon Department of Forestry and other state and local fire officials.

The ban was extended because of the continued hot, dry conditions and the high number of wildfires still burning throughout the state.

Visitors planning a trip to a state park should check for up-to-date information about fire restrictions at http://bit.ly/2uLzdwY or by calling the state parks