Superior National Forest adds Cook & Lake Counties to BWCAW Campfire Restricted areas

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October 4, 2023 – Superior National Forest, Duluth, Minn., –

Drying conditions prompts campfire restriction coordination between MN DNR and the SNF across the BWCAW, Cook and Lake Counties

Due to continued dry conditions and worsening wildfire danger conditions, the Superior National Forest has issued another Emergency Forest Order 09-09-24-09 – effective October 4, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. CT – restricting the igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal grills and barbeques, coal, and woodburning stoves to reduce the likelihood of a wildfire in Cook and Lake County within the Superior National Forest Boundary. This new Forest Order 09-09-24-09 increases the restricted area from Forest Order 09-09-24-08 specific to the BWCAW, to also include Cook and Lake Counties. The new campfire restriction information and exhibits, including a map, are available on our website.

The campfire restrictions go into effect beginning (12:01) a.m., October 4, 2024. Gas or propane cook stoves are allowed throughout the Superior National Forest, including the BWCAW and are a safer option than campfires. Stoves or grills fueled by charcoal, or any type of wood are not allowed. These restrictions will continue until further notice.

St. Louis county outside of the BWCAW has received recent precipitation and is not included in this order.

“We have coordinated this with the Minnesota DNR to avoid confusion across the BWCAW, Cook and Lake Counties. We want the recreating public to be safe as they enjoy the Forest,” stated Tom Hall, Superior National Forest Supervisor.

The potential for wildfire is high across all ownerships in northern Minnesota at this time. It is extremely important that people area careful with any sources of ignition such as smoking devices, dragging chains, and recreational vehicles. If you are in a location where you can have a campfire, consider if the conditions are right and if you need a fire. Be sure to keep your campfire small and put it out cold to the touch whenever you leave it. All permitted campfires must be attended all times.