Fire danger closes Kamiak Kamiak campground

The campground at Kamiak Butte was closed until further notice Sunday, Aug. 23, because the fire danger is now too risky, said Parks Director Tim Myers. With the late summer heat spells having dried up the underbrush and trees, a fire by a camper is too much of a risk now, Myers said.

“If someone decides to have a fire and a breeze comes through, it could get sparks in the trees and brush.” Myers said.

Fireworks, campfires, and smoking on trails have not been allowed in parks around the county since Aug. 5. Those restrictions apply at Kamiak Butte and Klemgard County Parks, and the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail. Kamiak campground has seen a reasonable flow of campers this summer, Myers said. He and park ranger Justice Barton will consider opening the site back up after rain returns.

Visitors can still use the trails on Kamiak Butte, although the restrictions on smoking and open fires still apply.

Wawawai park campground, which has irrigated lawns and few trees around, will remain open to campers.