It’s the first official weekend of summer, and despite record breaking precipitation along with a mercifully cooler spring… this is still California and the Mojave desert – and triple digit temperatures will be coming for a brief but intense visit to the Morongo Basin.
On the heels of summer’s arrival is Cal Fire’s proclamation of the suspension of all burning in SRA areas in San Bernardino County. That means that previously permitted burning activity, such as burning brush or debris outdoors, is prohibited and subject to being reported to county fire authorities.
So – what does that mean for campfires? For many visitors, a campfire might be one of the primary experiences you want to have while coming out to enjoy the magic of the Mojave desert. In Joshua Tree National Park – controlled campfires are only permitted in campgrounds and in designated fire rings.
Outside of the park on private property and residences – outdoor campfires are allowed if they are reasonably maintained and weather conditions don’t create an unsafe situation for open flames. Winds pick up quickly here in the desert, which can quickly pick up embers and other flammable materials and carry them to nearby vegetation – sparking fires that quickly spread due to invasive grasses and weeds.
On these warmer nights, consider forgoing a campfire if conditions feel iffy, and always keep an eye on the weather to see if wind is on the horizon. If you do have a campfire, make sure they are in a contained ring or firepit, and put them dead out before heading in for the night.
