As fire season intensifies, multiple Nevada state parks, including Rye Patch State Recreation Area, are now under Stage 1 fire restrictions, effective as of June 20, 2025.
The restrictions, implemented to prevent wildfires during peak dry conditions, prohibit open fires outside of designated areas. This includes building or maintaining a campfire, charcoal fire, or stove fire except in established fire rings or grills at developed campsites or picnic areas. Portable stoves using gas or pressurized fuel are still allowed in approved locations.
Smoking is also restricted to enclosed vehicles or cleared areas at least three feet in diameter. Visitors are advised not to drive or park on dry vegetation and are reminded that welding or torch use with an open flame requires a special permit.
Locally, Rye Patch Dam and Reservoir, though located in Pershing County, operates under state management and follows state park restrictions. Aang Minard, a Rye Patch aide, noted that while fires are allowed in designated fire pits and barbecues, fires outside of those areas are not allowed due to additional restrictions from Pershing County's local fire ban.
“Please douse ashes with water when you're done,” Minard said. “We want everyone to enjoy the park safely.”
For a full list of affected parks and the most current fire restrictions, visit parks.nv.gov.
Comment
Comments