If you're planning a camping trip this spring or summer along Central Oregon's rivers — including Lake Billy Chinook, a popular destination for Jefferson County residents — you'll need to leave the campfire at home. Effective today, May 14, 2026, the Bureau of Land Management's Prineville District has imposed annual campfire restrictions on BLM-administered river corridors throughout the region.

What's Banned

Under the new restrictions, the following are prohibited on affected BLM lands:

  • Campfires and charcoal fires of any kind
  • Portable propane campfires
  • Wood pellet burning devices
  • Smoking, except inside vehicles or on the water

Commercially manufactured lanterns and metal camp stoves fueled by bottled propane or liquid fuel are still allowed when used responsibly.

Where the Restrictions Apply

Campfires are banned along portions of the Crooked River, Deschutes River, John Day River, and White River, as well as on BLM lands adjacent to Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus. Both lakes sit in Jefferson County and draw significant recreational traffic throughout the spring and summer.

"Protecting the safety of the public and employees is always our top priority," said Kyle Hensley, acting district manager for the Prineville BLM District. "Central Oregon is a popular place for outdoor recreation, especially around rivers and waterways in the summer. Campfire restrictions are being implemented earlier than in previous years in response to current seasonal conditions."

Broader Fire Season Already Underway

The BLM restrictions come as Oregon's 2026 fire season officially took effect on May 8, earlier than in most years. Jefferson County Fire and EMS closed all open burning as of sunset May 3.

Also starting today, BLM is banning fireworks, exploding targets, steel-core ammunition, and other fire-starting materials across all BLM lands in Oregon and Washington.

Statewide, the Oregon Department of Forestry has set fire danger at "Moderate" in Hood River and Wasco counties to the north, with Industrial Fire Precaution Level I in effect. Conditions in Jefferson County and the broader Central Oregon region are dry and warming.

Penalties and Resources

Violations of the BLM river closure order are punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 12 months. The restrictions remain in effect through October 15, 2026.

For specific closure boundaries and current conditions, call the Prineville BLM District Office at 541-416-6700 or visit centraloregonfire.org. Road condition and fire information is also available at TripCheck.com.

Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend should check conditions before heading out, as the region's fire risk is expected to rise with warmer temperatures forecast for the coming week.