Campfires, recreational shooting once again allowed on public lands across 14 central California counties
October 30, 2023 - EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. —The Bureau of Land Management Mother Lode Field Office is easing seasonal fire restrictions as of today on approximately 230,000-acres of public lands in central California as the potential for wildland fire has subsided with cooler, wetter weather. Recreational target shooting and campfires are once again allowed on public lands with a valid campfire permit, unless otherwise posted. The rescinded fire order can be found here.
The easing of fire restrictions applies to public lands managed by the Mother Lode Field Office in Amador, Calaveras, Colusa, El Dorado, Mariposa, Merced, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tuolumne and Yuba counties. The easing of restrictions also applies to BLM recreational areas along the American, Merced, Mokelumne, South Yuba and Tuolumne rivers.
“Safety tips include keeping vehicles off dry grass or brush; carrying a fire extinguisher, shovel and bucket of water; getting a permit for any campfire or use of portable gas stoves; and following any posted signs or area-specific restrictions,” said Mother Lode Field Manager Jeff Horn.
The public is reminded to remain cautious and practice good fire safety to help prevent wildland fires when recreating on public lands. California campfire permits are available for free at the BLM, U.S. Forest Service and Cal Fire offices, or at ReadyForWildfire.org.
The statewide Fire Prevention Order remains in place for BLM-managed public lands in California. Recreational target shooters are reminded that hot bullet fragments and exploding targets can spark a wildfire. Tracer round ammunition and incendiary devices are prohibited on all BLM-managed public lands. Recreational target shooters are required to pack out all spent shells, brass and targets.
Individuals who spark wildfires, intentionally or unintentionally, can be held responsible for fire suppression and repair costs. More information on safe recreational target shooting is available here. For specific questions, please call the Mother Lode Field Office at 916-941-3101.
BLM Merced River Recreation Management Area in Mariposa County
Photo by David Greenwood, BLM
Source: BLM
