BOUNDARY WATERS — The U.S. Forest Service has lifted some campfire restrictions in Superior National Forest.
In a news release Wednesday, July 29, the Forest Service reported that campfires are now allowed in designated metal fire rings in campgrounds. The agency previously banned all burning in the forest beginning July 11 and 12.
Staff for the Forest Service added that backcountry campsites, including all areas in the Boundary Waters, will remain under a full campfire ban.
“Having a campfire is a special part of recreating outdoors, so we are glad to be able to lift these restrictions in specific areas to offer that opportunity to the public,” stated Superior National Forest Acting Deputy Supervisor Sunny Lucas.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources also rolled back restrictions on Wednesday in Cook, Koochiching and Lake counties, as well as parts of St. Louis and Itasca counties. This includes George Washington State Forest and Scenic State Park, where the same campground fire ring rules will be in place.
The updated restrictions come after rainy weather brought some relief to fires blazing in the drought-affected forest. According to the Forest Service's Wednesday update, ground moisture has moderated existing wildfires, though storms still pose the risk of starting new lightning fires.
On Tuesday, the Forest Service also announced it would reopen Trails End Campground, which borders the Boundary Waters, because of no recent wildfire spread in the area. The Little Knife Fire, located north of the campground, was 49% contained as of Wednesday.
Seven camping areas and two campgrounds remain closed in the Superior National Forest. Most entry points to the Boundary Waters also remain closed. A partial opening for overnight use begins Thursday.
Lucas said that despite the limited reopenings, visitors should stay vigilant.
"We would like to remind the public that fire danger across northeastern Minnesota remains moderate to high, and that responsible campfire use remains important," she stated.
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