Washington wildfire information

Updated as of Monday, September 30, 2024.

Fire restrictions

As of Sept. 30, the following activities remain restricted on WDFW-managed lands in Lincoln, Whitman, and Spokane counties:   

• Fires or campfires, including those in fire rings. Personal camp stoves and lanterns fueled by propane, liquid petroleum, or liquid petroleum gas are allowed.
• Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle. Do not throw lit cigarettes out your window.
• Welding and operating chainsaws, including the use of an acetylene torch or other open flame.
• Operating a motor vehicle away from developed roads. Parking is permitted within designated parking areas, including developed campgrounds and trailheads; and in areas without vegetation that are within 10 feet of roadways.

These restrictions were lifted for all other Eastern Washington counties on Sept. 30. Target-shooting restrictions were lifted in all counties Sept. 30.

Current fire activity and closures

• The Retreat Fire is contained, however the Oak Creek Wildlife Area (Oak Creek Unit) within the fire perimeter (PDF) is still closed until Oct. 23 to ensure public safety, facilitate firefighting efforts, and assess impacts to resources. The closure will be reassessed upon the expiration date and will likely affect hunting, scouting, and other recreation opportunities through November. Adjacent lands under other public ownership are also closed. This closure will affect hunting opportunities in GMUs 360 and 368, but only the areas within the Retreat Fire perimeter. The Oak Creek USFS 1400 Road and USFS 1302 Road near Windy Point remain closed. This closure includes roads within the fire perimeter, and they will be posted or restricted by locked gates. Bethel Tie Road and Tim's Pond are open. Royal Columns rock climbing area is also open. Other rock climbing sites along the Tieton River along with access sites along US Highway 12 and the majority of the Tieton River Nature Trail are closed. Please continue to check this page for further information on the Wildlife Area to make sure lands are open before heading out.
• On the  Columbia Basin Wildlife Area, the Sand Dunes Road area is permanently closed. The closure is in response to public safety issues, including multiple instances of stray target-shooting bullets landing in areas used for recreation by members of the public. The risk to public safety is too high to allow the activity to continue.

Plan ahead for your outdoor adventure

Get ready for your outdoor adventure and check for local restrictions when you plan your trip to a WDFW wildlife area or water access area. WDFW actively manages more than 1 million acres of public land and 500+ water access areas throughout the state. 

Target shooting on WDFW-managed lands

WDFW strives to provide a positive recreational experience for all outdoor enthusiasts at our wildlife areas across the state. As the number of people recreating on public lands increases each year, it is important for all visitors to have an extra level of awareness. 

Know before you shoot! WDFW’s target shooting regulation changed in 2021 to increase public safety, prevent wildfires, and protect habitat. Review the rule and frequently asked questions. 

For more information, review the Target Shooting in Washington Brochure (PDF).