Fire camp moves into Lincoln Rock State Park as crews work regional fires

CHELAN COUNTY — Lincoln Rock State Park is shifting into support mode for the region’s wildfire response. On October 1, the park began hosting up to 400 firefighters and their equipment, converting a portion of the grounds into a working fire camp while maintaining as much of the park open to the public as conditions allow.

To make room, several high-traffic areas are temporarily off limits — the boat launch, the large parking lot, and the day-use area east of the campground. Most other amenities remain available. Visitors will still find the sport courts, playground, and public camping open, with limited parking in the overflow lot near the picnic shelter.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience and flexibility while we support the ongoing fire efforts,” Parks Manager Ryan Baker said.

What this means on the ground is a slightly different rhythm than a typical October week at Lincoln Rock. Expect more emergency traffic in and out of the park and clearly marked zones where only fire personnel and vehicles are allowed. Campers and day-users should give themselves extra time at arrival, follow posted signage, and plan around the closed areas, especially if a boat launch was part of the day’s plan.

For boaters and anglers looking to stay on the water, alternative launches and day-use options are available at other parks in the area; a quick check of chelanpud.org/parks can help you pick a site with the access you need that day. If you’re heading to Lincoln Rock for playground time, a picnic, or a campsite, the basics still apply — pack out trash, be patient with reduced parking, and keep clear of any signed fire-camp zones.

The arrangement underscores how public spaces often double as community infrastructure during fire season — a place where crews can stage, sleep, and coordinate their work so they can get back out on the lines. The park will return to normal operations once the camp stands down; for now, the emphasis is on giving fire crews the space they need while preserving everyday recreation where it’s safe to do so.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media