Campfires allowed in the state of California?

Question

i'm visiting my grandparents cabin this weekend, in Mariposa county, and would like to know if camp fires are allowed?

thank you for your answers.

Answer 1

The fire in the news near Yosimte is also near Mariposa.  It has been very hot, very dry and very windy there.  If you want to be smart, and cautious, you won't have a camp fire.

Yes it it would be legal to have a small (emphasis on small) outdoor fire on private land with no permit.  The campgrounds in the National Forest are probably prohibiting any open flame fire, even BBQs.

If you have a small fire at your grandparnts cabin, be sure have a water hose, or bucket of water handy and a shovel to stop any unwanted, or uncontrolled burning.

Answer 2

It really depends on the campground (private, county, state, national park) and what they've deemed for that day.  Where I camp they make that decision daily based on conditions, but you can almost guarantee no fires in summer and fall.  If no fires are allowed they cover the fire pits and BBQ's. For backcountry camping or open fires on private land a fire permit is required.  If you can I'd suggest calling ahead or checking the website of the governing agency / local ranger's office.