Park Rangers Announce 2024 Fire Restrictions at Joshua Tree National Park

Date: June 17, 2024
Contact: Sasha Travaglio, 760-362-9469

Joshua Tree National Park leadership has implemented fire restrictions beginning Saturday, June 15 through Tuesday, October 1 due to hot, dry weather conditions and increasing fire danger. The restriction encompasses the entire park, including all campgrounds, backcountry sites, and picnic areas.

 

Fire restrictions in effect prohibit the following:

• Wood burning and charcoal fires; including campfires, warming fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills.
• Smoking within 10 feet of vegetation.
• Fireworks, explosives, and any other incendiary devices are always prohibited on public lands.

The use of liquid gas devices such as stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed in areas free of flammable materials within three feet of the device. The use of generators is restricted to units with approved spark arrestors operating at least three feet or more away from flammable materials such as grass.

“Nearly 90 percent of wildfires are human-caused, so make sure you recreate responsibly during your visit to the park and other outdoor spaces,” said the park’s acting Fire Management Officer Mitch Silvester. “Check local fire restrictions before you arrive at your destination and observe active fire closures. It’s a good idea to carry a shovel, bucket, and extra water along with your emergency kit.”

The Geology Fire burned over 1,000 acres in Joshua Tree National Park last June, impacting Joshua trees and desert tortoise habitat. Invasive grasses in the park can carry fire quickly and widely, spreading it to denser vegetation. Current fire restrictions will reduce the risk of fire, promote public health and safety, and protect resources. These restrictions will remain in effect until October 1 or until park leadership determines otherwise.

Plan ahead for your trip to Joshua Tree National Park:

• Download the NPS App for trip planning at https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm
• Check the park website for current conditions, restrictions, closures, and more at http://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
• Access information about fire restrictions and readiness plans on other public lands in California at http://www.fire.ca.gov

To learn more about fire in the Mojave Desert, please watch the Fire in the Mojave Desert: a Landscape in Transition video, available on our website at http://www.nps.gov/jotr/learn/photosmultimedia/mojavefire.htm.