Forest Service enacts campfire ban in BWCA

Campfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) will temporarily be banned starting Tuesday, Oct. 1.

With ongoing dry conditions and an increased risk for wildfire within the Superior National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service has restricted campfires, including charcoal grills and barbecues, within the BWCAW. The campfire ban goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday.

The Forest Service said while BWCAW campfires are restricted, gas or propane stoves are still allowed and recommended.

“We have seen warmer and dryer conditions across much of the Superior National Forest, especially within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. We want the recreating public to be safe as they enjoy the Forest,” stated Tom Hall, Superior National Forest Supervisor.

The campfire restriction will continue until further notice.

In addition to the BWCAW campfire restrictions, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources enacted burn permit restrictions on Sept. 26 for Cook and Lake County. Since then, a large portion of the state has had burn permit restrictions. 

Kalli Hawkins September 30, 2024