Many campgrounds closed in Arizona's high country due to fire restrictions
PAYSON, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Dangerous wildfire conditions have prompted a red flag warning, closures and restrictions in Northern Arizona.
"They say no campfires," one person said. "We can use anything that has propane."
One family set up camp at the Houston Mesa campground outside Payson early Thursday morning, hopeful to have a good time even with the restrictions.
"We miss the fire at night," one camper said. "We sit around and talk and other than that, it's easy, it's the same."
>>Tonto National Forest fire restrictions
>>Tonto National Forest closure order, maps
Hiking isn't allowed outside this campground. Signs are everywhere, even on the doors of gas stations in town.
"Everyone is coming in, trying to get firewood," one clerk said. "We can't sell it."
Because it's a popular weekend to camp, reservations were made well in advance, and as of Friday morning, there were few spots left.
"I can't make s'mores, if we do them here, they're going to taste like gas," one camper said.
Even though they have to forgo some of their favorite activities, these kids are still hopeful to have fun by putting safety first.
Sites that remain open:
Sites that remain closed:
"Violations of these closures and fire restrictions are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment for up to six months, or both," stated U.S. Forest Service officials.
For more information on fire restrictions and closures in Arizona:
https://firerestrictions.us/az
Cave Creek Ranger District
(480) 595-3300
Mon-Fri from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Closed from noon - 12:30 p.m. daily
Globe Ranger District
(928) 402-6200
Mon-Fri from 7:45 a.m. - 4:30p.m.
Closed from 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. daily
Mesa Ranger District
(480) 610-3300
Mon-Fri from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Closed from noon - 12:30 p.m. daily
Payson Ranger District
(928) 474-7900
Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Closed from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. daily
Pleasant Valley Ranger District
(928) 462-4300.
Open Thursdays only from 7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Closed from noon to 1 p.m.
Tonto Basin Ranger District
(602) 225-5395
Mon-Sat from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.