Planning a trip to Lake Billy Chinook this summer? You can still fish, swim, and boat — but you cannot build a campfire. The Bureau of Land Management's annual campfire restrictions went into effect on May 13 along key Central Oregon waterways and lakes, and they will remain in place through October 15.

The restrictions prohibit campfires, charcoal fires, or any other type of open flame along portions of the Crooked River, Deschutes River, John Day River, and White River, as well as on BLM-administered lands along Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus — all popular recreation areas for Jefferson County residents and visitors.

What Is and Isn't Allowed

Under the river and lake corridor restrictions, the following are prohibited:

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

The following remain allowed:

  • Commercially manufactured metal camp stoves fueled by bottled propane or liquid fuel
  • Propane lanterns operated responsibly

These river corridor restrictions are stricter than the Stage 1 Public Use restrictions being implemented across Central Oregon public lands starting May 18 — meaning even propane campfire devices allowed elsewhere are banned along the rivers and lakes.

Why Earlier Than Usual

The Prineville District BLM cited "current seasonal conditions" as the reason for implementing restrictions earlier than in previous years. Kyle Hensley, acting district manager for the Prineville District, said fire safety for the public and employees remains the top priority.

"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," Hensley said.

Oregon's fire season is off to an alarming start. The state entered fire season on May 8 in the Central Oregon District — weeks before the typical early-June start. Record low snowpack and a dry, warm winter have left vegetation significantly more flammable than usual heading into summer.

Penalties Are Real

Violations of BLM closure orders carry penalties of up to $1,000 in fines or up to 12 months in imprisonment, or both. Violators can also be held responsible for the full cost of suppressing any fire they cause.

For questions about specific closure locations, call the Prineville BLM District Office at (541) 416-6700 or visit blm.gov for details. Current restriction maps and updates are also available at centraloregonfire.org.

The BLM is coordinating enforcement with the newly established U.S. Wildland Fire Service as part of the Central Oregon Fire Management Service. Visitors may notice interagency prevention patrols by federal wildland fire vehicles at popular river and lake access points this summer.