BLM Field Manager with Memorial Day weekend cautions

With the Memorial Day holiday weekend coming up, many people are planning their first boat-in camping or exploring trip of the year on the Colorado River or on public lands in Western Arizona.

“Typically, the Memorial Day weekend is the single busiest weekend of the year for boat-in camping on Lake Havasu,” said Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lake Havasu Field Manager Kim Liebhauser. “Some years, all 87 of the boat-in camp sites are filled by Saturday afternoon. It’s first-come, first-served for these very popular camp sites.”

Liebhauser added that the sites are $10 per day for day-use for up to 6 people; and $10 for overnight use for total of $20. For more than 6 people, there is an additional $2 per person charge for using the site. Annual passes are available for $100 for the year. The sites have restrooms, barbeque grills, tables, and shade ramadas. People should bring their own firewood and most importantly take plenty of water.

The following Fire Restrictions are in effect for public areas of Western Arizona (including Lake Havasu):

1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires. Campfires and charcoal grills are only permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites, where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed on public lands provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.

2. Smoking. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a vehicle and on a paved or surface road, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.

4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.

“If people are hiking or climbing around the hills, they should always listen and watch where they step and put their hands – there are creatures that bite and sting out there. Be sure to take plenty of water with you during your outing. We want folks to enjoy their weekend in Arizona’s great outdoors,” Liebhauser concluded.