Except in developed campgrounds and wilderness areas, all campfires will be banned in the Chelan, Entiat and Wenatchee River ranger districts beginning Thursday due to increasing fire danger.

The ban prohibits building or using a campfire or stove fire including those made from briquettes outside of the designated campgrounds and wilderness areas.

Exceptions include some special use sites such as group camps or summer homes under permit. Campfires are also prohibited in some portions of the Glacier Peak, Chelan-Sawtooth, Alpine Lakes and Henry M. Jackson wilderness areas.

Hikers are asked to contact local ranger district offices for detailed information.