THE PNW CAMPFIRE / RESOURCES
A little more knowledge.
A little more confidence.
Useful reading, gear from Brian’s setup, and updates about public lands to keep close when you’re planning a PNW camping trip.
Camping skills · Fire information · What’s In My Rig · The PNW Dispatch
NEW TO IT OR YEARS INTO IT
Start with the area. Build a plan.
Dispersed camping means camping outside a developed campground. Each place comes with its own access, rules, and responsibilities. These reads help you ask better questions before the drive.
The Campsite Pin Is the Easy Part
Learn the area around a promising pin, think through the access road, and give yourself backup options.
Before You Pack the Firewood
How to find the right fire information for the land you’re visiting, and why a lifted ban may not be the whole answer.
One Night Still Counts
A reminder that a simple overnight trip can be enough. Start with a manageable drive, an easy dinner, and room to enjoy being outside.
OFFICIAL STARTING POINTS
Check fire information before you go.
Identify who manages the land where you plan to camp, then check that manager’s current rules and orders. These links help you begin; a statewide map or a past newsletter issue is not permission to have a fire.
WASHINGTON
DNR fire information
For DNR information and links to restrictions that may apply. Check the relevant agency for other lands.
OREGON
Restrictions & closures
Oregon Department of Forestry’s restrictions page and public fire restrictions map.
IDAHO
Fire Restrictions Finder
Idaho’s interagency starting point. Read the details for the area you plan to visit.
FROM MY CAMPSITE
What’s In My Rig
The gear Brian keeps bringing back, with notes from using it on actual trips. Starting with the setup for cold weather.
ALONG THE WAY
Put the useful places on your map.
Find groceries, fishing shops, coffee, fuel, and outdoor businesses around your camping area.
NEWS FROM AROUND OUR PUBLIC LANDS
The PNW Dispatch
Forest happenings, stewardship opportunities, and news about public lands from Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Read the Dispatch inside these dated editions of The PNW Campfire.
October 7: Before You Pack the Firewood
This edition includes Washington larch country, Oregon’s Wildwood Recreation Site, and an Idaho evening under the stars.
September 30: One Night Still Counts
An earlier edition covering a trail workday, firewood collection, and a restoration project.
Got a question the guide hasn’t answered?
Bring it to the No Reservations community. Someone else may have learned the same lesson a muddy way.