Parks Canada Issues Warning After Illegal Campfire Nearly Sparks Forest Blaze in Banff

What’s Happening? An illegal campfire in Banff National Park was left smouldering and nearly sparked a wildfire. Parks Canada crews extinguished it just in time, but the photo they posted this week shows scorched ground and charred trees—way too close for comfort.

Don’t Be That Person. Park rules are simple: campfires are only allowed in designated metal rings or approved cook stoves. Random fire pits and rock rings aren’t just illegal—they’re dangerous. The fire in question spread to nearby vegetation before being contained.

Soak It, Stir It, Soak It Again. Visitors are reminded to keep fires small, never leave them unattended, and completely extinguish them before leaving. Fires are only permitted between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., and you should bring your own bucket for water.

Buy Local (Firewood, That Is). Bringing wood from outside the park risks introducing invasive species. Instead, buy locally-sourced firewood and don’t burn garbage, bark, or deadwood.

What’s Next? With dry conditions on the rise, Parks Canada is cracking down harder on fire safety. Banff may be beautiful—but it’s no place to play with fire.