Seven Abandoned Campfires Found in Montana Forest Over One Weekend

Warm spring weather has arrived in Montana, and that means more people are heading into the woods to camp, hike, fish, and enjoy everything western Montana has to offer. But along with bear safety and outdoor preparedness, there’s another important reminder that comes with the start of recreation season: make absolutely sure your campfires are completely extinguished before leaving your campsite. 

Beware the Dangers of Abandoned Campfires

This reminder comes after forest officials reported seven abandoned campfires in the Bitterroot National Forest over just one recent weekend. Firefighters found three abandoned fires around Lake Como, two at Lost Horse, one in the Sawdust Gulch area, and one off Skalkaho at a dispersed campsite, according to a Facebook post from Discover Bitterroot National Forest.   

That’s exactly how wildfires can start. 

Properly Extinguishing Campfires: Best Practices

A campfire is not considered out just because the flames are gone. Forest officials recommend drowning the fire with water, stirring the ashes and coals thoroughly, and continuing to add water until everything is cool to the touch. A good rule of thumb is this: if you can still feel heat coming from the ashes, the fire is not out. 

READ MORE: Montana Cities With the Homes at Highest Risk of Wildfire

Experts say you should be able to place your hand near the wet ashes safely, or even briefly into them. 

It's important every year, but this year it may be especially important as Montana heads toward what could become another hot and dry summer. Fire danger can rise quickly across the state, particularly in forested areas where dry brush, wind, and leftover heat from abandoned campfires can create dangerous conditions fast. 

Recreating Responsibly: Essential Campfire Tips

Outdoor recreation season is one of the best parts of living in Montana, but it also comes with responsibility. Before starting a campfire, make sure you have: 

• Plenty of water available to extinguish fires  
• A shovel or tool to stir ashes and coals  
• A safe designated fire ring  
• Awareness of current fire restrictions and conditions  

READ MORE: Officials Warn: Drones Are Disrupting Wildfire Response Efforts

Thanks to forest rangers and fire crews who helped extinguish the abandoned campfires before they became something worse. 

Every year, a majority of forest fires in Montana are human-caused. Smokey Bear famously reminds us: “Only you can prevent forest fires.”