A campfire can make a Pennsylvania forest trip more comfortable, but burning wood on state forest land is subject to Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) rules. The requirements may depend on the forest district, the campsite, seasonal fire conditions, and whether the fire is inside an established fireplace.
Before gathering firewood or lighting a match, confirm that fires are allowed at your intended location. A permit may be required for an open fire outside a designated fireplace, and temporary restrictions can prohibit all recreational fires during periods of elevated wildfire risk.
Start by identifying the state forest and the specific area where you plan to camp. Pennsylvania has multiple state forest districts, and local district offices manage conditions, designated campsites, and special-use approvals. A fire ring at an established campsite may be treated differently from a fire built elsewhere in the forest.
Contact the appropriate DCNR state forest district office before your trip. Explain the proposed location, dates, number of people, type of fire, and purpose. Staff can tell you whether a campfire authorization, camping permit, or other written approval is needed and whether the location is currently open to fires.
A request generally needs enough detail for the district forester to evaluate safety and environmental impacts. Be prepared to provide your name and contact information, the forest district, campsite or map location, dates and times, and the size and intended use of the fire.
You may also be asked how you will supervise the fire, obtain water, extinguish it, and dispose of ashes. If the activity involves a group, event, cooking demonstration, or organized gathering, mention that when applying because additional authorization may apply.
There is no single statewide process that guarantees immediate approval for every state forest location. The district office may direct you to a form, request a written description, or explain that fires are permitted only in existing facilities. Submit the information early, especially for holidays, organized events, or popular recreation areas.
Do not assume that a request is approved because you contacted an office. Keep written authorization with you if one is issued, and follow any conditions attached to it. The official district website can also help constituents locate government resources and state services, although DCNR remains the proper source for forest-fire authorization.
Use only the approved location and keep the fire small enough to control. Never leave it unattended. Clear flammable material from the immediate area when permitted, keep children and pets away from flames, and have a shovel and sufficient water available.
Burn only permitted firewood. Moving firewood can spread insects and tree diseases, so obtain local firewood whenever possible and follow any restrictions announced by DCNR. Do not burn trash, plastic, glass, treated lumber, or other materials that can release harmful smoke or leave dangerous residue.
| Before the fire | During the fire | Before leaving |
|---|---|---|
| Confirm the district’s current rules | Keep the fire attended | Drown the fire with water |
| Obtain required written approval | Use the approved fire ring or site | Stir ashes and embers |
| Check weather and wildfire conditions | Keep water and a shovel nearby | Add water until everything is cold |
| Bring compliant local firewood | Stop if wind increases | Leave no visible smoke or heat |
A campfire is not out when the flames disappear. Pour water over the coals, stir the ashes, break apart larger pieces, and repeat until the material is cold to the touch. Do not bury hot coals because they can remain smoldering and later spread through dry leaves or roots.
If conditions change, put out the fire immediately. Wind, low humidity, drought, and wildfire warnings can make a previously acceptable fire unsafe. Check current notices before departure and again on the day of your visit.
State forests protect drinking-water watersheds, wildlife habitat, recreation areas, and working landscapes. Careful fire use helps preserve these public resources for visitors and nearby communities. Related conservation investments, such as those highlighted in this farmland preservation update, reflect the broader importance of protecting Pennsylvania’s land.
Travelers should also respect posted closures, quiet hours, campsite limits, and private property boundaries. Pack out all waste, avoid damaging vegetation, and report an uncontrolled fire by calling 911 once you are safely away from danger.
For help finding state government contacts or other constituent services, visit Representative Gary W. Day’s constituent resources. If your trip includes domestic air travel, review the guidance on Pennsylvania REAL ID and handle identification needs before heading to the forest. Most importantly, contact DCNR’s local district office before your visit so your campfire plans comply with current Pennsylvania requirements.