Fires and Camping

Campfires add ambiance to a campsite but should be used with caution. Always build your campfire downwind from your tent or RV in an area that is clear of vegetation. Never leave your campfire unattended and remember to fully extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving your campsite.

  • Finding a Choice Spot

    Every year thousands of Nebraskans escape the hustle of daily life by heading to the great outdoors. As Nebraska’s wildland guardian, Smokey Bear wants to remind everyone of some simple fire prevention rules that, when followed, will preserve our valuable natural resources. 

    Select a site:

    • with easy access to water
    • sheltered from the prevailing winds
    • free of overhanging tree limbs
    • large enough to allow plenty of space between tents and campfires.

  • Campfires

    If campfires are permitted:

    • Use only designated campfire areas 
    • Clear an area at least 15 feet surrounding your tent or any buildings
    • Clear ground cover to bare dirt at least 5 feet in all directions from the campfire
    • Place campfire downwind from your tent
    • Keep your campfire small
    • Never leave campfires unattended
    • Fully extinguish your campfire, using water, before leaving the area or going to bed at night
    • Stack extra firewood 15 feet away from the campfire

  • Camp Chef

    • Place your grill or stove on a solid level surface to prevent tipping 
    • Place your grill or stove at least 5 feet away from any combustible materials 
    • Place your grill or stove downwind from people, tents or buildings 
    • Use only charcoal lighter fluid to start your grill charcoal 
    • Use only enough charcoal for the amount of cooking you will be doing 
    • Don’t allow cooking oil to get too hot and ignite
    • Always use long-handled barbeque tools 
    • Always fully extinguish coals when leaving the campsite or at the end of the day

  • RV Camping

    • Before leaving on a trip thoroughly check vehicle exhaust systems, generator engines, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 
    • If you don’t have smoke or carbon monoxide detectors in your RV, install them. 
    • Park your RV in a clear area so the exhaust doesn’t ignite dry vegetation. 
    • Properly ventilate your RV when cooking. 
    • Do not use cooking appliances for heat. 
    • Before operating your stove, open a window or overhead venting and turn on an exhaust fan. 
    • Place a 5-pound, ABC-rated fire extinguisher near each exit and know how to use them.

    If you smell gas in your RV

    • Extinguish all open flames (pilot lights, lamps, smoking materials, etc.) 
    • Do not operate electrical switches
    • Shut off the gas supply
    • Open all doors, windows, and vents
    • Leave the RV until the odor is gone
    • Have the gas system checked and repaired before using it again

    In case of a fire

    • Stay calm!
    • If the fire is small attempt to extinguish it
    • Know your location and the location of the nearest telephone
    • Send someone to call the fire department and provide directions to you
    Photo courtesy: Nebraska Game & Parks Commission