Call ahead to check on fire bans at state parks

Some Nebraska state park and wildlife management areas are temporarily banning campfires as drought and wind conditions have triggered extreme fire danger.

Because of regularly changing conditions, guests should call state park areas prior to arrival to determine whether a fire ban is in effect. Parks will make determinations by working with local emergency managers and fire departments.

At wildlife management areas, signs will be posted if an area is closed to camp or cook fires.

State park areas will allow camp stoves using liquid or gas fuel as they reduce the likelihood of ash or hot charcoal being discarded before they are extinguished. These types of stoves also do not produce blowing embers, further reducing wildfire potential.

Those recreating in areas where campfires are allowed should use extreme caution and take precautions, including keeping fires small, contained in provided fire rings, always attending fires, and having a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of spread. Campfires should be properly extinguished with water until all coals have cooled completely. For more information, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Updated March 1, 2024.