There’s nothing quite like ending a day of RV camping around a crackling campfire. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows with the kids, warming up after a day of hiking, or simply relaxing under the stars, campfires are part of what makes camping memorable.

But enjoying a campfire also comes with responsibility.

For RVers exploring Washington State, campfire safety is especially important during the dry summer months, when conditions can change quickly and fire restrictions may be implemented. Washington’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) uses burn restrictions when conditions warrant them to help reduce human-caused wildfires, and those restrictions can include campfires on lands under DNR fire protection.

Inspired by Keystone RV's Campfire Safety guide, Tacoma RV Center put together this Washington-focused guide to help RV campers enjoy one of camping’s favorite traditions responsibly.

Here’s what to know before you light your next campfire.

1. Check Washington Burn Restrictions Before You Light a Fire

The most important campfire safety rule happens before the match is ever lit.

Always check current fire restrictions for your campground and destination.

Washington’s burn restrictions can change throughout the summer depending on temperatures, precipitation, wildfire activity, and local conditions. A campground that allowed fires during your last visit may prohibit them when you return.

As of July 31, 2026, for example, a DNR burn ban remains in effect on DNR-protected lands in portions of Eastern Washington. The restrictions that began July 17 prohibit campfires and charcoal briquettes in affected areas, illustrating why campers should check conditions immediately before every trip rather than relying on information from a previous visit.

Before starting a fire, check the rules for the specific land and campground you're visiting, since regulations can differ by jurisdiction.

You can check current Washington DNR restrictions through the Washington DNR Burn Restrictions page.

Important: An established fire ring does not automatically mean you're allowed to have a fire. DNR notes that when campfires are prohibited, the restriction still applies even where established fire rings are present.

2. Use an Approved Fire Ring

If campfires are permitted, use the campground's designated fire ring whenever one is available.

Don't build a second fire pit beside your RV simply because you've found an open patch of dirt.

Designated fire rings help keep flames and hot coals contained in an area intended for fires. On DNR-managed lands, campfires are permitted only in approved fire pits when restrictions aren't otherwise prohibiting them.

Keep the surrounding area free from easily ignited material such as:

• Dry leaves

• Pine needles

• Paper

• Dead grass

• Small branches

• Camping equipment

• Towels and clothing

Also pay attention to what's above the fire. Low-hanging branches can become a hazard even when they're several feet above the flames.

Example of the Olympic National Forest restrictions to prevent wild fires

3. Keep Your Campfire Manageable

A bigger campfire isn't necessarily a better campfire.

For most RV camping evenings, a small, controlled fire provides plenty of warmth and atmosphere.

Avoid stacking wood so high that flames or embers can easily escape the fire ring. Wind can carry embers farther than you might expect, especially in dry conditions.

A smaller fire is also:

• Easier to supervise

• Easier to extinguish

• More comfortable to sit around

• Less likely to produce excessive sparks

• Less likely to damage surrounding vegetation

Think campfire, not bonfire.

4. Never Leave a Campfire Unattended

It can be tempting to walk back inside your RV to grab a drink, start dinner, or put the kids to bed while the fire continues burning.

Don't.

Someone should always be actively supervising a burning campfire.

A sudden gust of wind can send sparks or embers beyond the fire ring, and conditions can change quickly.

If everyone is leaving the campsite—even briefly—put the fire out completely.

Washington DNR specifically advises campers never to leave a campfire unattended.

5. Keep Water and a Shovel Nearby

Preparation makes a major difference if something unexpected happens.

Before lighting your campfire, have water readily available instead of waiting until you need it.

Washington DNR recommends having buckets of water and a shovel nearby when campfires are permitted.

Keeping these tools within reach means you can react quickly if:

• A spark lands outside the ring

• The wind suddenly increases

• A piece of burning wood rolls out

• Nearby vegetation begins smoking

• You need to extinguish the fire quickly

This is one camping precaution you hope you'll never need—but you'll be glad you prepared for it if you do.

6. Watch the Wind

Wind and campfires are a dangerous combination.

Even a relatively small breeze can carry sparks beyond your campsite.

If conditions become windy, consider skipping the campfire entirely. The marshmallows can wait for another night.

Also pay attention to which direction the smoke and sparks are traveling. Your RV's awning, outdoor furniture, neighboring campsites, tents, and vehicles should remain well away from the fire.

7. Keep Your RV and Camping Gear Away From the Flames

Your campsite may feel spacious when you first arrive, but chairs, coolers, outdoor rugs, dog leashes, toys, and other camping gear can quickly fill the area.

Create a clear buffer around the fire.

Be especially careful with:

• RV awnings

• Outdoor rugs

• Camping chairs

• Tablecloths

• Paper plates and napkins

• Clothing

• Pet beds

• Tents and shelters

Before lighting the fire, take a quick look around and move anything that could potentially ignite.

8. Teach Kids Campfire Safety

Campfires can create some of the best childhood camping memories, but children should understand the rules before the fire is lit.

Establish a clear boundary around the fire that children aren't allowed to cross without an adult.

Teach them to:

• Walk rather than run around the fire

• Never throw objects into the flames

• Never remove burning sticks

• Ask an adult before roasting food

• Keep chairs a safe distance away

Campfire safety becomes much easier when everyone at the campsite understands the expectations.

Planning an RV adventure with the kids? Explore our guide to family-friendly Washington campgrounds for even more ideas on creating a memorable—and safe—camping trip.

9. Don't Burn Trash

Your campfire isn't a garbage disposal.

Avoid burning:

• Plastic

• Aluminum cans

• Glass

• Food packaging

• Batteries

• Treated or painted wood

• Household garbage

Pack out your trash and dispose of it according to campground rules.

Keeping garbage out of the fire also helps keep your campsite cleaner and reduces unpleasant or potentially hazardous smoke.

10. Make Sure the Fire Is Completely Out

This may be the most important step of the entire evening.

A fire that looks extinguished can still contain enough heat to reignite.

When you're finished:

1. Allow the wood to burn down when possible.

2. Pour plenty of water over the fire.

3. Stir the ashes and embers.

4. Add more water.

5. Stir again.

6. Check carefully for remaining heat.

Washington DNR uses a simple rule campers should remember:

If it's too hot to touch, it's too hot to leave.

Never go to sleep or leave the campground until you're confident the fire is completely extinguished.

What Should RVers Do During a Burn Ban?

A burn ban doesn't mean your camping trip is ruined.

It simply means you may need to change some of your traditions.

Depending on the specific restriction, certain propane appliances may still be permitted. For example, the current July 2026 Eastern Washington DNR restrictions allow pressurized liquid-gas and propane stoves with functioning shut-off valves, even while campfires and charcoal briquettes are prohibited on affected lands. However, rules vary, so always verify what's permitted at your specific campground before using any flame-producing appliance.

No campfire? Try creating a different nighttime tradition:

• Play cards outside

• Watch the sunset

• Go stargazing

• Bring battery-powered lanterns

• Tell stories around the picnic table

• Enjoy a campground walk

• Make dessert inside your RV

Sometimes skipping the campfire leads to an entirely different camping memory.

If a burn ban means skipping the campfire, turn off the lights and look up instead—our guide to Washington's best stargazing destinations can help you plan an unforgettable night under the stars.

Campfire Safety on the Washington Coast

Beach camping may feel less vulnerable to wildfire than forest camping, but fire regulations still matter.

Wind is another major consideration along the Pacific Coast. Even when fires are permitted, coastal winds can make sparks and embers difficult to control.

Before building any beach fire, verify that fires are permitted at that specific location and follow posted rules.

Planning a coastal getaway? Our Washington beach camping guide covers RV options and destinations for exploring Ocean Shores, Long Beach, and the Pacific Coast.

Be Extra Careful When Camping in Washington's Forests

Washington's forests are one of the biggest reasons we love RV camping here—and one of the biggest reasons responsible fire practices matter.

Destinations such as the North Cascades, Olympic Peninsula, Mount Rainier region, and Eastern Washington can experience very different fire conditions throughout the season.

Check restrictions before leaving home and check again when you arrive.

Local conditions should always take priority over what you read when initially planning your trip.

Heading toward the Olympic Peninsula? Our Olympic National Park RV camping guide can help you plan campgrounds, scenic stops, and must-see destinations before you go.

Prepare Your RV for Summer Camping, Too

Fire safety isn't the only preparation your RV needs before a summer road trip.

Before leaving your driveway, check:

• Tires and tire pressure

• Brakes

• Wheel bearings

• Batteries

• Propane system

• Exterior lights

• Roof seals

• Water system

• Emergency supplies

Preventative maintenance can help you identify problems before they turn into roadside headaches.

Campfire safety is only one part of preparing for summer travel—use our summer RV maintenance checklist to help make sure your RV is ready for the road, too.

Make Safety Part of the Adventure

A safe campfire doesn't take away from the camping experience—it helps protect the places that make RV camping worthwhile.

Before striking a match, remember:

Check restrictions. Use the designated fire ring. Keep the fire small. Have water nearby. Never leave it unattended. Put it completely out.

Those few habits can make a huge difference.

And when restrictions say no fires?

Respect them.

There's always another way to enjoy a Washington evening.

Get Your RV Ready at Tacoma RV Service Center

Before your next Washington camping trip, make sure your RV is ready for the adventure.

Whether you need routine maintenance, inspections, repairs, or help preparing your RV for another season of travel, the Tacoma RV Service Center is here to help.

Schedule your RV service online today and get road-trip ready before your next campground adventure.

Tacoma RV Service Center

8507 Pacific Hwy E
Tacoma, WA 98422
(253) 455-7837

Start Your Next Adventure at Tacoma RV Center

Need more room for your camping gear—or ready for an RV that better fits the way you travel?

Tacoma RV Center offers a wide selection of travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers for Washington adventures. Our family-owned dealership provides a relaxed, no-pressure shopping experience with non-commissioned sales staff who can help you compare floorplans and find the RV that works for you.

From your first camping trip to your hundredth, we're here to help you spend more time making memories outside.

Visit Tacoma RV Center in Fife or browse our RV inventory online to start planning your next adventure.