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Yosemite Fire Rings - What to Expect?


Planning where to stop and camp in advanceHow is the maximum legal altitude for campfires determined?How are backpacking conditions at Yosemite in April?What do you do if the fire does get “out of control”?Hiking half dome - What are the most efficient logistics for getting a campsite in little Yosemite?Rocks to line a fire pitYosemite in late March a good idea?Why use a Dakota fire pit?Is the Park Service continuing its case to re-rename Yosemite Park's historic landmarks?Scat Identification on Upper Yosemite Falls TrailDetails on closure of Rte 120 into Yosemite? (Not normal snow closure.)Why would you climb hard bigwall projects in Yosemite in winter?













10















I'm planning a Yosemite trip for this summer. In reading up on the rules on fire restrictions, I saw this:




When and where fire restrictions are not in effect, wood fires are allowed in existing fire rings only and prohibited above 9,600 feet in elevation.




We'll be backpacking from Ten Lakes to May Lake, which will only be above 9,600ft at certain points, so I'm excited to have some campfires when we're at the lower altitudes of our trip. However, I'm not entirely clear on what a "fire ring" will look like--google searches show me the kinds of metal things you'd have on a campground or in your backyard.



What do these "fire rings" look like and--if anyone has Yosemite knowledge--how often will they be along our trail (or where can I go to find this information)?










share|improve this question



















  • 2





    Related outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/20042/…

    – Charlie Brumbaugh
    Mar 22 at 15:20






  • 6





    The point of all these restrictions is that when people build fires, it has a huge negative impact on the landscape. There is no reason to build a campfire. Just don't.

    – Ben Crowell
    Mar 22 at 19:38







  • 3





    The elevation limit is roughly at the tree line, so there is not much to burn anyway, if you are picking twigs from a desolate landscape for campfire, you are too high (even if below 9600ft) ! Note that one campfire can deplete a high mountain valley of a decade or more of deadfall, which serve as a vital source of nutrients for the delicate soil that other plants in that area require to continue living.

    – crasic
    Mar 23 at 4:23
















10















I'm planning a Yosemite trip for this summer. In reading up on the rules on fire restrictions, I saw this:




When and where fire restrictions are not in effect, wood fires are allowed in existing fire rings only and prohibited above 9,600 feet in elevation.




We'll be backpacking from Ten Lakes to May Lake, which will only be above 9,600ft at certain points, so I'm excited to have some campfires when we're at the lower altitudes of our trip. However, I'm not entirely clear on what a "fire ring" will look like--google searches show me the kinds of metal things you'd have on a campground or in your backyard.



What do these "fire rings" look like and--if anyone has Yosemite knowledge--how often will they be along our trail (or where can I go to find this information)?










share|improve this question



















  • 2





    Related outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/20042/…

    – Charlie Brumbaugh
    Mar 22 at 15:20






  • 6





    The point of all these restrictions is that when people build fires, it has a huge negative impact on the landscape. There is no reason to build a campfire. Just don't.

    – Ben Crowell
    Mar 22 at 19:38







  • 3





    The elevation limit is roughly at the tree line, so there is not much to burn anyway, if you are picking twigs from a desolate landscape for campfire, you are too high (even if below 9600ft) ! Note that one campfire can deplete a high mountain valley of a decade or more of deadfall, which serve as a vital source of nutrients for the delicate soil that other plants in that area require to continue living.

    – crasic
    Mar 23 at 4:23














10












10








10


1






I'm planning a Yosemite trip for this summer. In reading up on the rules on fire restrictions, I saw this:




When and where fire restrictions are not in effect, wood fires are allowed in existing fire rings only and prohibited above 9,600 feet in elevation.




We'll be backpacking from Ten Lakes to May Lake, which will only be above 9,600ft at certain points, so I'm excited to have some campfires when we're at the lower altitudes of our trip. However, I'm not entirely clear on what a "fire ring" will look like--google searches show me the kinds of metal things you'd have on a campground or in your backyard.



What do these "fire rings" look like and--if anyone has Yosemite knowledge--how often will they be along our trail (or where can I go to find this information)?










share|improve this question
















I'm planning a Yosemite trip for this summer. In reading up on the rules on fire restrictions, I saw this:




When and where fire restrictions are not in effect, wood fires are allowed in existing fire rings only and prohibited above 9,600 feet in elevation.




We'll be backpacking from Ten Lakes to May Lake, which will only be above 9,600ft at certain points, so I'm excited to have some campfires when we're at the lower altitudes of our trip. However, I'm not entirely clear on what a "fire ring" will look like--google searches show me the kinds of metal things you'd have on a campground or in your backyard.



What do these "fire rings" look like and--if anyone has Yosemite knowledge--how often will they be along our trail (or where can I go to find this information)?







backpacking fire yosemite






share|improve this question















share|improve this question













share|improve this question




share|improve this question








edited Mar 22 at 14:49







scohe001

















asked Mar 22 at 14:45









scohe001scohe001

1788




1788







  • 2





    Related outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/20042/…

    – Charlie Brumbaugh
    Mar 22 at 15:20






  • 6





    The point of all these restrictions is that when people build fires, it has a huge negative impact on the landscape. There is no reason to build a campfire. Just don't.

    – Ben Crowell
    Mar 22 at 19:38







  • 3





    The elevation limit is roughly at the tree line, so there is not much to burn anyway, if you are picking twigs from a desolate landscape for campfire, you are too high (even if below 9600ft) ! Note that one campfire can deplete a high mountain valley of a decade or more of deadfall, which serve as a vital source of nutrients for the delicate soil that other plants in that area require to continue living.

    – crasic
    Mar 23 at 4:23













  • 2





    Related outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/20042/…

    – Charlie Brumbaugh
    Mar 22 at 15:20






  • 6





    The point of all these restrictions is that when people build fires, it has a huge negative impact on the landscape. There is no reason to build a campfire. Just don't.

    – Ben Crowell
    Mar 22 at 19:38







  • 3





    The elevation limit is roughly at the tree line, so there is not much to burn anyway, if you are picking twigs from a desolate landscape for campfire, you are too high (even if below 9600ft) ! Note that one campfire can deplete a high mountain valley of a decade or more of deadfall, which serve as a vital source of nutrients for the delicate soil that other plants in that area require to continue living.

    – crasic
    Mar 23 at 4:23








2




2





Related outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/20042/…

– Charlie Brumbaugh
Mar 22 at 15:20





Related outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/20042/…

– Charlie Brumbaugh
Mar 22 at 15:20




6




6





The point of all these restrictions is that when people build fires, it has a huge negative impact on the landscape. There is no reason to build a campfire. Just don't.

– Ben Crowell
Mar 22 at 19:38






The point of all these restrictions is that when people build fires, it has a huge negative impact on the landscape. There is no reason to build a campfire. Just don't.

– Ben Crowell
Mar 22 at 19:38





3




3





The elevation limit is roughly at the tree line, so there is not much to burn anyway, if you are picking twigs from a desolate landscape for campfire, you are too high (even if below 9600ft) ! Note that one campfire can deplete a high mountain valley of a decade or more of deadfall, which serve as a vital source of nutrients for the delicate soil that other plants in that area require to continue living.

– crasic
Mar 23 at 4:23






The elevation limit is roughly at the tree line, so there is not much to burn anyway, if you are picking twigs from a desolate landscape for campfire, you are too high (even if below 9600ft) ! Note that one campfire can deplete a high mountain valley of a decade or more of deadfall, which serve as a vital source of nutrients for the delicate soil that other plants in that area require to continue living.

– crasic
Mar 23 at 4:23











5 Answers
5






active

oldest

votes


















13














May Lake is lovely. Hoffman is a great peak to bag while you're there.



As I recall, the camping at May Lake is quite well developed and you should find bear boxes and legal metal fire rings there.



It sounds like you have an expectation that when camping, it's nice to have a camp fire. I think a lot of people have positive associations with those things. But the impact of people and fire on the environment has reached the point where I'd encourage you to develop your no-fire ethic. I generally don't build a fire, and I've gotten to the point where I don't miss it... the soot... the smoky smell in the clothes... the worry about whether it's dead out. After just a couple no-fire trips, I think you'll find plenty of other beautiful things to enjoy besides the fire.



Also, notice that May Lake camping is by reservation, so arrange that ahead of time. On the map you link, the "camp" icons show where you can expect to find developed camp grounds.






share|improve this answer










New contributor




Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.















  • 1





    +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

    – ab2
    Mar 22 at 22:52











  • Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

    – scohe001
    Mar 22 at 23:39











  • @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

    – ab2
    2 days ago



















6














They will be a ring of rocks around an area with ashes that has clearly been used for fires before. You can see examples of illegal ones here. Legal ones would look the same, just be already existing and within the location requirements.






In order to minimize the impact to park ecosystems and to be fair to the experiences of other wilderness users, backcountry campers are required to camp outside of the no camping zone and more than 100 feet away from trail or water.



Since wood is scarce at high elevations and important to the other living things that live there, they also cannot build fire rings above 9,600 feet in elevation. When the restoration crew finds sites that violate these requirements, they remove the site so that future campers are not encouraged to use it.




As for how many and where they are, that depends on the area and I doubt there will be maps.



You are basically looking for places where people have camped before, so flat areas close the trail and relatively near water are your best bets.






share|improve this answer




















  • 2





    @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

    – Charlie Brumbaugh
    Mar 22 at 15:07







  • 3





    How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

    – BruceWayne
    Mar 22 at 19:17






  • 4





    @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

    – crasic
    Mar 22 at 20:19







  • 3





    @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

    – scohe001
    Mar 22 at 20:22






  • 2





    @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

    – crasic
    Mar 23 at 5:08


















5














Actually, I don't remember many fire rings at May Lake, but we always camped well above the Lake. It is the site of a High Sierra Camp, and there is thus an incentive to keep it "clean". Camping near lakes and streams is "illegal" and taken seriously at May Lake. As an aside, I don't remember any fire rings on the approach to May Lake from the May Lake Trailhead; that trail is heavily travelled by day hikers, there is no water and most of it is very exposed.



You, however will not be taking that trail, and I haven't hiked from Ten Lakes to May Lake. If the trail you will be taking goes along a stream and is in woods, I'd be very surprised, based on lots of experience, if you did not find at least a few fire rings, some of them maybe too close to the stream to be "legal". But as long as you follow the rules about peeing and pooping and discarding wash water, and you leave no trace, you will be a good citizen even if you camp closer to the stream than, strictly speaking, you should according to the rules.



The above paragraph may upset some people, but if you obey the reasons for the rules and leave no trace, that should suffice, in my opinion. One thing you mustn't do is construct your own fire ring. Even if you dismantle it and carry out the ashes, you will leave behind stained dirt, possibly killed vegetation, and fire-stained rocks. That is, you will leave a trace.



Enjoy!






share|improve this answer






























    5














    You know one when you see one when it comes to "established fire-rings", but Generally:



    1. Complies with the objective rules.

    2. Has been used for multiple seasons, with evidence of a deep bed of soot from many uses

    3. Thoroughly built up with heavy rocks tall enough to block sparks and do not move when jostled

    4. Part of an established, and legal dispersed campsite. Although sometimes lunch spots will have a small ring.

    They can be found throughout the park wherever flat spots for dispersed camping can be found, which often feels like every mile or two in Yosemite even in more remote parts of the park. However, some of these may be new and not "established", and in many cases one finds campfire rings in places that are not legal and these should be avoided.



    As shown in another answer, the fire rings are typically built up of rocks, but metal rings are placed in very heavily used areas and campgrounds.



    The rangers at the ranger station will be very explicit about fire regulations and current conditions/restrictions, it will be hard to feign ignorance.




    Campfire rules in most of the Sierra Nevada wilderness areas and National Parks is exactly as cited. Established fire rings that are further than 100 Yards from Water (much further than you think), and below 9600 ft (elevation varies depending on management area) are Fair Game to use.



    Additionally, during the summer, blanket fire bans can be imposed depending on wildfire conditions there has been a July->October fire ban in place for the last 10 years it seems.



    I have on one occasion been approached by a passing wilderness ranger for using a campfire ring that was not "established", in that case it was a prominent campsite and ring, but much too close to the water. They requested that we put out our fire and move further away, noting that the campsite and fire ring was slated to be dismantled and posted due to its heavy use. We complied and had no issues or fines, as long as you act in good faith I would expect the same. However, campfire during a fire ban period is bad juju and will incur the wrath of rangers.




    I love campfires, so do not begrudge you wanting to make a fire, but in places heavily impacted like May Lake and other parts of Yosemite, I attempt to abstain because the evidence of human impact is everywhere. I try to save it for the more remote areas, where human impact and human travel is sparse.



    However, Please note. Higher elevation, above the tree line in areas that are not wildfire ecosystems and with sparse trees, a single largish campfire can burn years of dead-fall that would have served as food for various bugs and critters, sustaining small birds and animals like frogs and lizards and recycling those nutrients into the soil for the delicate plants that are then eaten by other small animals like the cozy Pika. If you find yourself looking at a desolate landscape, even below the legal elevation, try to abstain from picking the few sparse twigs available for you to build a fire.






    share|improve this answer
































      1














      You'll find them around May Lake pretty easily, but probably not on the rest of your trip.






      share|improve this answer








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      • 1





        Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 19:13










      Your Answer








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      5 Answers
      5






      active

      oldest

      votes








      5 Answers
      5






      active

      oldest

      votes









      active

      oldest

      votes






      active

      oldest

      votes









      13














      May Lake is lovely. Hoffman is a great peak to bag while you're there.



      As I recall, the camping at May Lake is quite well developed and you should find bear boxes and legal metal fire rings there.



      It sounds like you have an expectation that when camping, it's nice to have a camp fire. I think a lot of people have positive associations with those things. But the impact of people and fire on the environment has reached the point where I'd encourage you to develop your no-fire ethic. I generally don't build a fire, and I've gotten to the point where I don't miss it... the soot... the smoky smell in the clothes... the worry about whether it's dead out. After just a couple no-fire trips, I think you'll find plenty of other beautiful things to enjoy besides the fire.



      Also, notice that May Lake camping is by reservation, so arrange that ahead of time. On the map you link, the "camp" icons show where you can expect to find developed camp grounds.






      share|improve this answer










      New contributor




      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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      • 1





        +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

        – ab2
        Mar 22 at 22:52











      • Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 23:39











      • @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

        – ab2
        2 days ago
















      13














      May Lake is lovely. Hoffman is a great peak to bag while you're there.



      As I recall, the camping at May Lake is quite well developed and you should find bear boxes and legal metal fire rings there.



      It sounds like you have an expectation that when camping, it's nice to have a camp fire. I think a lot of people have positive associations with those things. But the impact of people and fire on the environment has reached the point where I'd encourage you to develop your no-fire ethic. I generally don't build a fire, and I've gotten to the point where I don't miss it... the soot... the smoky smell in the clothes... the worry about whether it's dead out. After just a couple no-fire trips, I think you'll find plenty of other beautiful things to enjoy besides the fire.



      Also, notice that May Lake camping is by reservation, so arrange that ahead of time. On the map you link, the "camp" icons show where you can expect to find developed camp grounds.






      share|improve this answer










      New contributor




      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
      Check out our Code of Conduct.















      • 1





        +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

        – ab2
        Mar 22 at 22:52











      • Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 23:39











      • @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

        – ab2
        2 days ago














      13












      13








      13







      May Lake is lovely. Hoffman is a great peak to bag while you're there.



      As I recall, the camping at May Lake is quite well developed and you should find bear boxes and legal metal fire rings there.



      It sounds like you have an expectation that when camping, it's nice to have a camp fire. I think a lot of people have positive associations with those things. But the impact of people and fire on the environment has reached the point where I'd encourage you to develop your no-fire ethic. I generally don't build a fire, and I've gotten to the point where I don't miss it... the soot... the smoky smell in the clothes... the worry about whether it's dead out. After just a couple no-fire trips, I think you'll find plenty of other beautiful things to enjoy besides the fire.



      Also, notice that May Lake camping is by reservation, so arrange that ahead of time. On the map you link, the "camp" icons show where you can expect to find developed camp grounds.






      share|improve this answer










      New contributor




      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
      Check out our Code of Conduct.










      May Lake is lovely. Hoffman is a great peak to bag while you're there.



      As I recall, the camping at May Lake is quite well developed and you should find bear boxes and legal metal fire rings there.



      It sounds like you have an expectation that when camping, it's nice to have a camp fire. I think a lot of people have positive associations with those things. But the impact of people and fire on the environment has reached the point where I'd encourage you to develop your no-fire ethic. I generally don't build a fire, and I've gotten to the point where I don't miss it... the soot... the smoky smell in the clothes... the worry about whether it's dead out. After just a couple no-fire trips, I think you'll find plenty of other beautiful things to enjoy besides the fire.



      Also, notice that May Lake camping is by reservation, so arrange that ahead of time. On the map you link, the "camp" icons show where you can expect to find developed camp grounds.







      share|improve this answer










      New contributor




      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
      Check out our Code of Conduct.









      share|improve this answer



      share|improve this answer








      edited Mar 22 at 23:12









      Sue

      10.6k33097




      10.6k33097






      New contributor




      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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      answered Mar 22 at 22:34









      PuddlesPuddles

      1312




      1312




      New contributor




      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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      New contributor





      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
      Check out our Code of Conduct.






      Puddles is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
      Check out our Code of Conduct.







      • 1





        +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

        – ab2
        Mar 22 at 22:52











      • Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 23:39











      • @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

        – ab2
        2 days ago













      • 1





        +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

        – ab2
        Mar 22 at 22:52











      • Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 23:39











      • @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

        – ab2
        2 days ago








      1




      1





      +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

      – ab2
      Mar 22 at 22:52





      +1 Agree with the benefits of no fire, especially after several severe fire seasons. But I can't grudge one fire to a person who seems to be fairly new at backpacking. Just don't overdo.

      – ab2
      Mar 22 at 22:52













      Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

      – scohe001
      Mar 22 at 23:39





      Thanks for the answer--I'll have to look into Hoffman! We'll actually be backpacking with our Wilderness Permit, so we won't reach the May Lake campsite until our last day (and by then we'll probably be more than ready for our hotel and a hot shower). That being said, I think your perspective on fires still applies and it's something I'll be sharing with the rest of my backpacking-mates.

      – scohe001
      Mar 22 at 23:39













      @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

      – ab2
      2 days ago






      @scohe001 Re Mt. Hoffman -- Try to make time for it. The view from the top or near the top reveals a vista including several small, unnamed lakes and Yosemite Creek. This area is accessed by walking up Yosemite Creek from the trailhead at Tioga Pass Road, which is probably where you are starting from for Ten Lakes.

      – ab2
      2 days ago












      6














      They will be a ring of rocks around an area with ashes that has clearly been used for fires before. You can see examples of illegal ones here. Legal ones would look the same, just be already existing and within the location requirements.






      In order to minimize the impact to park ecosystems and to be fair to the experiences of other wilderness users, backcountry campers are required to camp outside of the no camping zone and more than 100 feet away from trail or water.



      Since wood is scarce at high elevations and important to the other living things that live there, they also cannot build fire rings above 9,600 feet in elevation. When the restoration crew finds sites that violate these requirements, they remove the site so that future campers are not encouraged to use it.




      As for how many and where they are, that depends on the area and I doubt there will be maps.



      You are basically looking for places where people have camped before, so flat areas close the trail and relatively near water are your best bets.






      share|improve this answer




















      • 2





        @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

        – Charlie Brumbaugh
        Mar 22 at 15:07







      • 3





        How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

        – BruceWayne
        Mar 22 at 19:17






      • 4





        @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

        – crasic
        Mar 22 at 20:19







      • 3





        @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 20:22






      • 2





        @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

        – crasic
        Mar 23 at 5:08















      6














      They will be a ring of rocks around an area with ashes that has clearly been used for fires before. You can see examples of illegal ones here. Legal ones would look the same, just be already existing and within the location requirements.






      In order to minimize the impact to park ecosystems and to be fair to the experiences of other wilderness users, backcountry campers are required to camp outside of the no camping zone and more than 100 feet away from trail or water.



      Since wood is scarce at high elevations and important to the other living things that live there, they also cannot build fire rings above 9,600 feet in elevation. When the restoration crew finds sites that violate these requirements, they remove the site so that future campers are not encouraged to use it.




      As for how many and where they are, that depends on the area and I doubt there will be maps.



      You are basically looking for places where people have camped before, so flat areas close the trail and relatively near water are your best bets.






      share|improve this answer




















      • 2





        @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

        – Charlie Brumbaugh
        Mar 22 at 15:07







      • 3





        How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

        – BruceWayne
        Mar 22 at 19:17






      • 4





        @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

        – crasic
        Mar 22 at 20:19







      • 3





        @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 20:22






      • 2





        @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

        – crasic
        Mar 23 at 5:08













      6












      6








      6







      They will be a ring of rocks around an area with ashes that has clearly been used for fires before. You can see examples of illegal ones here. Legal ones would look the same, just be already existing and within the location requirements.






      In order to minimize the impact to park ecosystems and to be fair to the experiences of other wilderness users, backcountry campers are required to camp outside of the no camping zone and more than 100 feet away from trail or water.



      Since wood is scarce at high elevations and important to the other living things that live there, they also cannot build fire rings above 9,600 feet in elevation. When the restoration crew finds sites that violate these requirements, they remove the site so that future campers are not encouraged to use it.




      As for how many and where they are, that depends on the area and I doubt there will be maps.



      You are basically looking for places where people have camped before, so flat areas close the trail and relatively near water are your best bets.






      share|improve this answer















      They will be a ring of rocks around an area with ashes that has clearly been used for fires before. You can see examples of illegal ones here. Legal ones would look the same, just be already existing and within the location requirements.






      In order to minimize the impact to park ecosystems and to be fair to the experiences of other wilderness users, backcountry campers are required to camp outside of the no camping zone and more than 100 feet away from trail or water.



      Since wood is scarce at high elevations and important to the other living things that live there, they also cannot build fire rings above 9,600 feet in elevation. When the restoration crew finds sites that violate these requirements, they remove the site so that future campers are not encouraged to use it.




      As for how many and where they are, that depends on the area and I doubt there will be maps.



      You are basically looking for places where people have camped before, so flat areas close the trail and relatively near water are your best bets.







      share|improve this answer














      share|improve this answer



      share|improve this answer








      edited Mar 22 at 19:23

























      answered Mar 22 at 14:54









      Charlie BrumbaughCharlie Brumbaugh

      49.6k16142284




      49.6k16142284







      • 2





        @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

        – Charlie Brumbaugh
        Mar 22 at 15:07







      • 3





        How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

        – BruceWayne
        Mar 22 at 19:17






      • 4





        @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

        – crasic
        Mar 22 at 20:19







      • 3





        @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 20:22






      • 2





        @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

        – crasic
        Mar 23 at 5:08












      • 2





        @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

        – Charlie Brumbaugh
        Mar 22 at 15:07







      • 3





        How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

        – BruceWayne
        Mar 22 at 19:17






      • 4





        @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

        – crasic
        Mar 22 at 20:19







      • 3





        @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

        – scohe001
        Mar 22 at 20:22






      • 2





        @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

        – crasic
        Mar 23 at 5:08







      2




      2





      @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

      – Charlie Brumbaugh
      Mar 22 at 15:07






      @JamesJenkins All backcountry fire rings in Yosemite are made out of rocks, they aren't going to haul in steel rings. That's why it says existing rings.

      – Charlie Brumbaugh
      Mar 22 at 15:07





      3




      3





      How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

      – BruceWayne
      Mar 22 at 19:17





      How would you know the ones you find already made are "legal"? Just because they're already there? If OP (or anyone) decides to make their own fire with a fire ring, then that's new, sure...but then the next person four days later will find it, and assume it's legal since it's already there. Or am I not considering something?

      – BruceWayne
      Mar 22 at 19:17




      4




      4





      @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

      – crasic
      Mar 22 at 20:19






      @BruceWayne Not entirely, "established ring" is subjective, but it is still pretty obvious when a ring is only 1 or 2 seasons old. Rangers go through periodically and clear the new rings. Established rings have a deep bed of soot that can be several feet deep with heavy rocks from improvements by multiple parties and rangers. Although it is unlikely to be fined if you are using a "young" ring , the rangers have broken up my campfires when it is "non-established ring".

      – crasic
      Mar 22 at 20:19





      3




      3





      @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

      – scohe001
      Mar 22 at 20:22





      @crasic that--along with a little more on your experience of the rangers breaking up your rings--sounds like the start of a great answer! (explaining what they said and how it worked when they saw you using a ring you maybe weren't supposed to)

      – scohe001
      Mar 22 at 20:22




      2




      2





      @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

      – crasic
      Mar 23 at 5:08





      @Sue sure no problem, done!. One small aside I will put here, part of the "established campsite" rule is due to a number of fires being started through tree roots underneath a campfire. An established fire-ring generally has proven itself not to cause these issues.

      – crasic
      Mar 23 at 5:08











      5














      Actually, I don't remember many fire rings at May Lake, but we always camped well above the Lake. It is the site of a High Sierra Camp, and there is thus an incentive to keep it "clean". Camping near lakes and streams is "illegal" and taken seriously at May Lake. As an aside, I don't remember any fire rings on the approach to May Lake from the May Lake Trailhead; that trail is heavily travelled by day hikers, there is no water and most of it is very exposed.



      You, however will not be taking that trail, and I haven't hiked from Ten Lakes to May Lake. If the trail you will be taking goes along a stream and is in woods, I'd be very surprised, based on lots of experience, if you did not find at least a few fire rings, some of them maybe too close to the stream to be "legal". But as long as you follow the rules about peeing and pooping and discarding wash water, and you leave no trace, you will be a good citizen even if you camp closer to the stream than, strictly speaking, you should according to the rules.



      The above paragraph may upset some people, but if you obey the reasons for the rules and leave no trace, that should suffice, in my opinion. One thing you mustn't do is construct your own fire ring. Even if you dismantle it and carry out the ashes, you will leave behind stained dirt, possibly killed vegetation, and fire-stained rocks. That is, you will leave a trace.



      Enjoy!






      share|improve this answer



























        5














        Actually, I don't remember many fire rings at May Lake, but we always camped well above the Lake. It is the site of a High Sierra Camp, and there is thus an incentive to keep it "clean". Camping near lakes and streams is "illegal" and taken seriously at May Lake. As an aside, I don't remember any fire rings on the approach to May Lake from the May Lake Trailhead; that trail is heavily travelled by day hikers, there is no water and most of it is very exposed.



        You, however will not be taking that trail, and I haven't hiked from Ten Lakes to May Lake. If the trail you will be taking goes along a stream and is in woods, I'd be very surprised, based on lots of experience, if you did not find at least a few fire rings, some of them maybe too close to the stream to be "legal". But as long as you follow the rules about peeing and pooping and discarding wash water, and you leave no trace, you will be a good citizen even if you camp closer to the stream than, strictly speaking, you should according to the rules.



        The above paragraph may upset some people, but if you obey the reasons for the rules and leave no trace, that should suffice, in my opinion. One thing you mustn't do is construct your own fire ring. Even if you dismantle it and carry out the ashes, you will leave behind stained dirt, possibly killed vegetation, and fire-stained rocks. That is, you will leave a trace.



        Enjoy!






        share|improve this answer

























          5












          5








          5







          Actually, I don't remember many fire rings at May Lake, but we always camped well above the Lake. It is the site of a High Sierra Camp, and there is thus an incentive to keep it "clean". Camping near lakes and streams is "illegal" and taken seriously at May Lake. As an aside, I don't remember any fire rings on the approach to May Lake from the May Lake Trailhead; that trail is heavily travelled by day hikers, there is no water and most of it is very exposed.



          You, however will not be taking that trail, and I haven't hiked from Ten Lakes to May Lake. If the trail you will be taking goes along a stream and is in woods, I'd be very surprised, based on lots of experience, if you did not find at least a few fire rings, some of them maybe too close to the stream to be "legal". But as long as you follow the rules about peeing and pooping and discarding wash water, and you leave no trace, you will be a good citizen even if you camp closer to the stream than, strictly speaking, you should according to the rules.



          The above paragraph may upset some people, but if you obey the reasons for the rules and leave no trace, that should suffice, in my opinion. One thing you mustn't do is construct your own fire ring. Even if you dismantle it and carry out the ashes, you will leave behind stained dirt, possibly killed vegetation, and fire-stained rocks. That is, you will leave a trace.



          Enjoy!






          share|improve this answer













          Actually, I don't remember many fire rings at May Lake, but we always camped well above the Lake. It is the site of a High Sierra Camp, and there is thus an incentive to keep it "clean". Camping near lakes and streams is "illegal" and taken seriously at May Lake. As an aside, I don't remember any fire rings on the approach to May Lake from the May Lake Trailhead; that trail is heavily travelled by day hikers, there is no water and most of it is very exposed.



          You, however will not be taking that trail, and I haven't hiked from Ten Lakes to May Lake. If the trail you will be taking goes along a stream and is in woods, I'd be very surprised, based on lots of experience, if you did not find at least a few fire rings, some of them maybe too close to the stream to be "legal". But as long as you follow the rules about peeing and pooping and discarding wash water, and you leave no trace, you will be a good citizen even if you camp closer to the stream than, strictly speaking, you should according to the rules.



          The above paragraph may upset some people, but if you obey the reasons for the rules and leave no trace, that should suffice, in my opinion. One thing you mustn't do is construct your own fire ring. Even if you dismantle it and carry out the ashes, you will leave behind stained dirt, possibly killed vegetation, and fire-stained rocks. That is, you will leave a trace.



          Enjoy!







          share|improve this answer












          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer










          answered Mar 22 at 22:43









          ab2ab2

          12.9k340108




          12.9k340108





















              5














              You know one when you see one when it comes to "established fire-rings", but Generally:



              1. Complies with the objective rules.

              2. Has been used for multiple seasons, with evidence of a deep bed of soot from many uses

              3. Thoroughly built up with heavy rocks tall enough to block sparks and do not move when jostled

              4. Part of an established, and legal dispersed campsite. Although sometimes lunch spots will have a small ring.

              They can be found throughout the park wherever flat spots for dispersed camping can be found, which often feels like every mile or two in Yosemite even in more remote parts of the park. However, some of these may be new and not "established", and in many cases one finds campfire rings in places that are not legal and these should be avoided.



              As shown in another answer, the fire rings are typically built up of rocks, but metal rings are placed in very heavily used areas and campgrounds.



              The rangers at the ranger station will be very explicit about fire regulations and current conditions/restrictions, it will be hard to feign ignorance.




              Campfire rules in most of the Sierra Nevada wilderness areas and National Parks is exactly as cited. Established fire rings that are further than 100 Yards from Water (much further than you think), and below 9600 ft (elevation varies depending on management area) are Fair Game to use.



              Additionally, during the summer, blanket fire bans can be imposed depending on wildfire conditions there has been a July->October fire ban in place for the last 10 years it seems.



              I have on one occasion been approached by a passing wilderness ranger for using a campfire ring that was not "established", in that case it was a prominent campsite and ring, but much too close to the water. They requested that we put out our fire and move further away, noting that the campsite and fire ring was slated to be dismantled and posted due to its heavy use. We complied and had no issues or fines, as long as you act in good faith I would expect the same. However, campfire during a fire ban period is bad juju and will incur the wrath of rangers.




              I love campfires, so do not begrudge you wanting to make a fire, but in places heavily impacted like May Lake and other parts of Yosemite, I attempt to abstain because the evidence of human impact is everywhere. I try to save it for the more remote areas, where human impact and human travel is sparse.



              However, Please note. Higher elevation, above the tree line in areas that are not wildfire ecosystems and with sparse trees, a single largish campfire can burn years of dead-fall that would have served as food for various bugs and critters, sustaining small birds and animals like frogs and lizards and recycling those nutrients into the soil for the delicate plants that are then eaten by other small animals like the cozy Pika. If you find yourself looking at a desolate landscape, even below the legal elevation, try to abstain from picking the few sparse twigs available for you to build a fire.






              share|improve this answer





























                5














                You know one when you see one when it comes to "established fire-rings", but Generally:



                1. Complies with the objective rules.

                2. Has been used for multiple seasons, with evidence of a deep bed of soot from many uses

                3. Thoroughly built up with heavy rocks tall enough to block sparks and do not move when jostled

                4. Part of an established, and legal dispersed campsite. Although sometimes lunch spots will have a small ring.

                They can be found throughout the park wherever flat spots for dispersed camping can be found, which often feels like every mile or two in Yosemite even in more remote parts of the park. However, some of these may be new and not "established", and in many cases one finds campfire rings in places that are not legal and these should be avoided.



                As shown in another answer, the fire rings are typically built up of rocks, but metal rings are placed in very heavily used areas and campgrounds.



                The rangers at the ranger station will be very explicit about fire regulations and current conditions/restrictions, it will be hard to feign ignorance.




                Campfire rules in most of the Sierra Nevada wilderness areas and National Parks is exactly as cited. Established fire rings that are further than 100 Yards from Water (much further than you think), and below 9600 ft (elevation varies depending on management area) are Fair Game to use.



                Additionally, during the summer, blanket fire bans can be imposed depending on wildfire conditions there has been a July->October fire ban in place for the last 10 years it seems.



                I have on one occasion been approached by a passing wilderness ranger for using a campfire ring that was not "established", in that case it was a prominent campsite and ring, but much too close to the water. They requested that we put out our fire and move further away, noting that the campsite and fire ring was slated to be dismantled and posted due to its heavy use. We complied and had no issues or fines, as long as you act in good faith I would expect the same. However, campfire during a fire ban period is bad juju and will incur the wrath of rangers.




                I love campfires, so do not begrudge you wanting to make a fire, but in places heavily impacted like May Lake and other parts of Yosemite, I attempt to abstain because the evidence of human impact is everywhere. I try to save it for the more remote areas, where human impact and human travel is sparse.



                However, Please note. Higher elevation, above the tree line in areas that are not wildfire ecosystems and with sparse trees, a single largish campfire can burn years of dead-fall that would have served as food for various bugs and critters, sustaining small birds and animals like frogs and lizards and recycling those nutrients into the soil for the delicate plants that are then eaten by other small animals like the cozy Pika. If you find yourself looking at a desolate landscape, even below the legal elevation, try to abstain from picking the few sparse twigs available for you to build a fire.






                share|improve this answer



























                  5












                  5








                  5







                  You know one when you see one when it comes to "established fire-rings", but Generally:



                  1. Complies with the objective rules.

                  2. Has been used for multiple seasons, with evidence of a deep bed of soot from many uses

                  3. Thoroughly built up with heavy rocks tall enough to block sparks and do not move when jostled

                  4. Part of an established, and legal dispersed campsite. Although sometimes lunch spots will have a small ring.

                  They can be found throughout the park wherever flat spots for dispersed camping can be found, which often feels like every mile or two in Yosemite even in more remote parts of the park. However, some of these may be new and not "established", and in many cases one finds campfire rings in places that are not legal and these should be avoided.



                  As shown in another answer, the fire rings are typically built up of rocks, but metal rings are placed in very heavily used areas and campgrounds.



                  The rangers at the ranger station will be very explicit about fire regulations and current conditions/restrictions, it will be hard to feign ignorance.




                  Campfire rules in most of the Sierra Nevada wilderness areas and National Parks is exactly as cited. Established fire rings that are further than 100 Yards from Water (much further than you think), and below 9600 ft (elevation varies depending on management area) are Fair Game to use.



                  Additionally, during the summer, blanket fire bans can be imposed depending on wildfire conditions there has been a July->October fire ban in place for the last 10 years it seems.



                  I have on one occasion been approached by a passing wilderness ranger for using a campfire ring that was not "established", in that case it was a prominent campsite and ring, but much too close to the water. They requested that we put out our fire and move further away, noting that the campsite and fire ring was slated to be dismantled and posted due to its heavy use. We complied and had no issues or fines, as long as you act in good faith I would expect the same. However, campfire during a fire ban period is bad juju and will incur the wrath of rangers.




                  I love campfires, so do not begrudge you wanting to make a fire, but in places heavily impacted like May Lake and other parts of Yosemite, I attempt to abstain because the evidence of human impact is everywhere. I try to save it for the more remote areas, where human impact and human travel is sparse.



                  However, Please note. Higher elevation, above the tree line in areas that are not wildfire ecosystems and with sparse trees, a single largish campfire can burn years of dead-fall that would have served as food for various bugs and critters, sustaining small birds and animals like frogs and lizards and recycling those nutrients into the soil for the delicate plants that are then eaten by other small animals like the cozy Pika. If you find yourself looking at a desolate landscape, even below the legal elevation, try to abstain from picking the few sparse twigs available for you to build a fire.






                  share|improve this answer















                  You know one when you see one when it comes to "established fire-rings", but Generally:



                  1. Complies with the objective rules.

                  2. Has been used for multiple seasons, with evidence of a deep bed of soot from many uses

                  3. Thoroughly built up with heavy rocks tall enough to block sparks and do not move when jostled

                  4. Part of an established, and legal dispersed campsite. Although sometimes lunch spots will have a small ring.

                  They can be found throughout the park wherever flat spots for dispersed camping can be found, which often feels like every mile or two in Yosemite even in more remote parts of the park. However, some of these may be new and not "established", and in many cases one finds campfire rings in places that are not legal and these should be avoided.



                  As shown in another answer, the fire rings are typically built up of rocks, but metal rings are placed in very heavily used areas and campgrounds.



                  The rangers at the ranger station will be very explicit about fire regulations and current conditions/restrictions, it will be hard to feign ignorance.




                  Campfire rules in most of the Sierra Nevada wilderness areas and National Parks is exactly as cited. Established fire rings that are further than 100 Yards from Water (much further than you think), and below 9600 ft (elevation varies depending on management area) are Fair Game to use.



                  Additionally, during the summer, blanket fire bans can be imposed depending on wildfire conditions there has been a July->October fire ban in place for the last 10 years it seems.



                  I have on one occasion been approached by a passing wilderness ranger for using a campfire ring that was not "established", in that case it was a prominent campsite and ring, but much too close to the water. They requested that we put out our fire and move further away, noting that the campsite and fire ring was slated to be dismantled and posted due to its heavy use. We complied and had no issues or fines, as long as you act in good faith I would expect the same. However, campfire during a fire ban period is bad juju and will incur the wrath of rangers.




                  I love campfires, so do not begrudge you wanting to make a fire, but in places heavily impacted like May Lake and other parts of Yosemite, I attempt to abstain because the evidence of human impact is everywhere. I try to save it for the more remote areas, where human impact and human travel is sparse.



                  However, Please note. Higher elevation, above the tree line in areas that are not wildfire ecosystems and with sparse trees, a single largish campfire can burn years of dead-fall that would have served as food for various bugs and critters, sustaining small birds and animals like frogs and lizards and recycling those nutrients into the soil for the delicate plants that are then eaten by other small animals like the cozy Pika. If you find yourself looking at a desolate landscape, even below the legal elevation, try to abstain from picking the few sparse twigs available for you to build a fire.







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                  edited Mar 23 at 5:15

























                  answered Mar 23 at 4:47









                  crasiccrasic

                  49139




                  49139





















                      1














                      You'll find them around May Lake pretty easily, but probably not on the rest of your trip.






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                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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                      • 1





                        Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

                        – scohe001
                        Mar 22 at 19:13















                      1














                      You'll find them around May Lake pretty easily, but probably not on the rest of your trip.






                      share|improve this answer








                      New contributor




                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                      Check out our Code of Conduct.















                      • 1





                        Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

                        – scohe001
                        Mar 22 at 19:13













                      1












                      1








                      1







                      You'll find them around May Lake pretty easily, but probably not on the rest of your trip.






                      share|improve this answer








                      New contributor




                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                      Check out our Code of Conduct.










                      You'll find them around May Lake pretty easily, but probably not on the rest of your trip.







                      share|improve this answer








                      New contributor




                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                      Check out our Code of Conduct.









                      share|improve this answer



                      share|improve this answer






                      New contributor




                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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                      answered Mar 22 at 18:55









                      Jacob WeverkaJacob Weverka

                      191




                      191




                      New contributor




                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                      Check out our Code of Conduct.





                      New contributor





                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                      Check out our Code of Conduct.






                      Jacob Weverka is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                      Check out our Code of Conduct.







                      • 1





                        Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

                        – scohe001
                        Mar 22 at 19:13












                      • 1





                        Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

                        – scohe001
                        Mar 22 at 19:13







                      1




                      1





                      Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

                      – scohe001
                      Mar 22 at 19:13





                      Is this from personal experience? Or do you have some information to back this up?

                      – scohe001
                      Mar 22 at 19:13

















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