New campfire restrictions for Los Padres National Forest

Facing a busy wildfire season, the Los Padres National Forest has issued new fire restrictions, where campfires are not allowed outside of designated fire rings.

“So that means if you are going to have a campfire, you need to be in one of our designated campground areas. If camping up along the ridges or any place else, absolutely no fires,” said Chip Laugharn, Forest Service Battalion Chief.

Laugharn says over Memorial Day weekend, some campers started a fire at the base of a redwood tree near Big Sur. It took over 300 gallons of water to extinguish the flames. Now that it’s summer, Big Sur is a big area of concern, as it’s a beautiful place for campers to spend a few nights

“Beauty of the mountains and the big trees, drive down the street a little ways and you got the beach, the sand, the surf, so it’s the best of both worlds,” said camper Byron Hamilton.

But local agencies say they’re seeing far more campers than usual, and that’s not good.

“Unfortunately, Big Sur is being loved to death right now,” said Laugharn.

With campgrounds full nearly all summer, some people pitch their tent along the side of the road.

“They’ll just pull over for a night, throw their tent down or use their RV, try to build a fire,” said Laugharn, “and we’re going to cite those folk when we get the chance.”

It happens in spots where there’s a bit of a cut-away from the side of the road. That’s where officials typically find campers set up for a night or two, especially during the summer.

Bryon Hamilton and his family reserved their campsite a year ago. He says he’s not surprised that some people camp wherever they chose, despite the danger.

“Yes, a little for the danger side of things, but really no. It’s so beautiful over here that everyone wants to be here,” he said.

The Forest Service will have two additional fire patrol units on hand this weekend because the best way to battle wildfires is to prevent them.

“The more we can get the people armed with this information and coming down to respect this area, the better off we’re going to be,” said Laugharn.

ORIGINAL STORY: Due to high fire danger, officials with the Los Padres National Forest have announced new restrictions on campfires. Level III fire restrictions take effect today. The restrictions will prohibit wood and charcoal fires except in designated campfire use sites. Other activities, including smoking and recreational target shooting are also limited.

KION meteorologist Steve Fundaro spoke today with rangers and Big Sur residents, and will have more on the new regulations tonight.