As millions of Pacific Northwesterners head out to camping spots, trailheads, and recreation areas this Memorial Day weekend, fire managers are delivering a pointed message: conditions are dangerous, restrictions are in place, and the stakes are high. Even a single spark can trigger a fire that threatens communities, wildlife, and the landscapes people came to enjoy.

Restrictions Are Already in Effect

BLM-administered lands throughout Oregon and Washington have been under enhanced fire restrictions since May 14 — well ahead of the typical summer timeline. Those restrictions prohibit fireworks, exploding targets, metallic targets, steel-jacketed ammunition, tracer rounds, and sky lanterns on all BLM lands in both states.

National Forest restrictions vary by district and may be more extensive. Campfire restrictions are in effect in parts of Central Oregon, including portions of the Deschutes National Forest and lands administered by the BLM Prineville District. Before driving to your destination, check with the local ranger district or visit recreation.gov for current conditions and restrictions.

NIFC Memorial Day Message

The National Interagency Fire Center issued a specific Memorial Day weekend message urging outdoor recreationists to exercise caution. Key reminders from NIFC include:

  • Avoid parking on dry vegetation — hot catalytic converters can ignite grass fires
  • Check trailer chains and equipment to prevent sparks from dragging hardware
  • Ensure campfires are completely out cold before leaving — drown with water, stir, and drown again
  • Follow all posted fire restrictions and closures
  • Never leave a campfire unattended

"Most wildfires in the United States are human-caused and preventable," NIFC stated in its May 22 national fire news update. "Taking simple precautions can help reduce wildfire risk and protect communities, firefighters, and public lands."

Know Before You Go: Resources

  • Fire restrictions: InciWeb (inciweb.wildfire.gov) and local National Forest websites
  • Air quality: AirNow.gov — check smoke and particulate forecasts before heading out
  • Fire danger ratings: Oregon Department of Forestry (oregon.gov/odf/fire) and Washington DNR
  • Evacuation zones: Know your zone before you go using your county emergency management website

Have a Plan

If you are camping in fire-prone areas this weekend, make sure everyone in your group knows the evacuation route from your campsite, and has a way to receive emergency alerts. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on cell phones are one layer of notification, but cell coverage is often spotty in backcountry areas. Consider downloading your maps offline before leaving cell range.

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer — and in 2026, it also marks the unofficial start of one of the most concerning fire seasons in recent Pacific Northwest history. Stay informed, stay safe, and leave the landscape better than you found it.