Fire use in George Washington/Thomas Jefferson National Forests

[Tron-Life]

Can you have open fires in said location? I looked for info on their web site, but like most forest and wilderness area websites, they have very little useful information; though, it could be hidden away somewhere where I can't find it.

[Shonryu]

Only place you can have fires are at campsites or shelters where there is already a fire ring established.

[Tron-Life]

Indubitably sir. Thank you for your response. I most likely will not be having any fires, but it might rain and having the option to start a fire up and dry off is always nice.

[bfayer]

There is no specific ban on campfires in areas designated for dispersed camping. Within designated camping areas, campfires are only allowed in established fire rings. pit, etc. See link below.

However, they post fire bans fairly often, and the only way you can know if a fire ban is in effect is to either check with a ranger, or check the notices on their website. Once a fire ban is posted it takes effect immediately, so you can be ticketed and fined even if you check the website the day before and did not see any fire bans.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_...rdb5294521.pdf

"Campfires

Obey restrictions on fires. Fires may be limited or prohibited at certain times.
Within campgrounds and other developed recreation sites, build fires only in fire rings, stoves, or grills provided for that purpose.


Be sure your fire is completely extinguished (no heat present) before leaving. YOU are responsible for keeping fires under control."

[Tron-Life]

Thanks bfayer, for the detailed information and the link.

[Tuckahoe]

George Washinton & Jefferson National Forest follow Virginia law with regard to open fire regulations, so at the moment we are in the Spring open fire ban that runs from February 15 to April 30. During this period fires are permitted only between 4pm and 12am.
http://www.dof.virginia.gov/info/faqs-burning.htm.

Otherwise camp fires are permitted when dispersed camping (per surpervisor office personnel).

[bfayer]

I spend more time in hiking and camping in GWNF than any other place. For the most part, if there is a good place to camp, someone has already built a fire ring, or two, or three So there is really no need to build a fire in a place that does not already have a fire ring.

Tuckahoe64, Good link, thanks for posting it.