The National Park Service implemented increased fire restrictions at four southeastern Utah national parks and monuments starting Friday, June 26, as prolonged drought and extremely dry vegetation created hazardous wildfire conditions across the region. The new rules applied to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Natural Bridges National Monument.
Reason for new fire restrictions
According to the National Park Service, the heightened restrictions were necessary because southeastern Utah continued to face dangerous wildfire conditions driven by persistent drought and highly flammable vegetation. These changes occurred as multiple wildfires burned throughout the state of Utah amid hot, dry weather, with smoke visible in many areas including Moab, as reported by Moab Times.
Dinosaur National Monument Stage 1 rules
In addition to the southeastern sites, Dinosaur National Monument also implemented Stage 1 fire restrictions starting June 26. In an announcement made Tuesday, June 23, monument officials stated the measures were intended to protect visitors, monument staff, and the natural and cultural resources within Dinosaur National Monument.
Superintendent warns of high danger
Dinosaur National Monument Superintendent Phil Akers noted that extremely dry conditions paired with large amounts of flammable vegetation had created a high fire danger situation. Akers warned that recent fires in both Utah and Colorado demonstrated how easily conditions could allow fires to break out.
Rules for campfires and grills
Under the new regulations, visitors are prohibited from building or using open campfires or campfires anywhere except within National Park Service-provided fire grates and grills at developed campgrounds. At the southeastern sites, including Arches and Canyonlands, visitors may only use campfires or charcoal fires in agency-approved fire pits and grills located at developed recreation sites, picnic areas, and permanently improved places of habitation.
Cooking and fuel use guidelines
The restrictions also include specific rules for cooking and fuel use. Charcoal may be used for cooking in metal pans or grills along riverways. However, devices fueled by pressurized liquid or gas that feature a shut-off valve, such as camp stoves, remain permitted in all locations.
Visitors using charcoal or pressurized fuel are instructed to keep all surrounding areas clear of flammable vegetation. Furthermore, the restrictions prohibit any grinding, cutting, or welding of metal in any areas containing dry vegetation.
Smoking regulations have also been tightened to prevent accidental ignitions. At Dinosaur National Monument, smoking is permitted only in enclosed vehicles, at developed recreation sites, or in areas that have been cleared of all flammable material. Similarly, at the southeastern parks, smoking is prohibited except inside enclosed vehicles or in paved areas that lack nearby vegetation. All cigarette butts must be disposed of in as well-equipped ashtrays.
Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices remain strictly prohibited on all federal public lands, including Dinosaur National Monument.
To further mitigate risk, the National Park Service encouraged visitors to take several precautions, such as fully extinguishing campfires, staying on established roads and trails, and ensuring that trailer chains do not drag or create sparks. The agency stated that these preventative measures are vital to help prevent wildfires, protect local communities, ensure visitor safety, and reduce unnecessary risks to firefighters.
For those seeking more information regarding fire restrictions, wildfire conditions, and prevention methods, the agency directs individuals to Utah Fire Info.
Visitors to Dinosaur National Monument can find the complete list of restrictions and the full official announcement by visiting the monument's website at nps.gov/dino.
