May 31, 2024 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks officials report on stage 1 fire restrictions beginning today, on Friday, May 31, 2024.

The lowest elevations of the park dry out quickly this time of year - just ask these firefighters doing a training exercise in the foothills of Sequoia! To prevent accidental ignitions from causing potentially serious wildfires, the parks will be entering stage 1 fire restrictions on Friday, May 31.

Stage 1 fire restrictions prohibit wood and charcoal fires, including wood burning stoves, at elevations of 3,000 feet and below. Campground and picnic areas that are affected include Potwisha Campground, and the Hospital Rock and Foothills Picnic Areas.

Stage 1 fire restrictions also prohibit wood and charcoal fires in wilderness areas below elevations of 6,000 feet. Year-round elevation and/or site-specific wilderness fire restrictions also apply. In addition, stage 1 fire restrictions prohibit smoking below elevations of 6,000 feet, except within an enclosed vehicle, within a private residence where smoking is permitted, or in a designated smoking area.

Some areas that would typically be affected by stage 1 fire restrictions remain closed due to severe damage from storms in early 2023, including South Fork and Buckeye Flat Campgrounds in Sequoia National Park.

Fire restrictions do not apply to gas, propane, alcohol, and tablet/cube stoves. Use of these stoves remains permitted in areas affected by fire restrictions - so never fear, you still have options for outdoor cooking!

Stage 1 fire restrictions will remain in effect until conditions significantly change. Learn more about fire restrictions in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks at https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/nature/fire-restrictions.htm.

(Pictured) Firefighters work on the side of a foothill.

Source: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Photo credit: NPS