Firewood Rules

To protect Wisconsin's trees, obtain firewood near where you will use it or use certified firewood that has been properly heat-treated or aged to kill any infesting pests or diseases.  All Chippewa County campgrounds sell firewood on site, when caretakers are available, and also have firewood dispensers for 24-7 availability.

Firewood can transport harmful tree problems to your backyard, street, or favorite campsite.  Just one firewood log can easily hide insects such as Emerald Ash Borer or Spongy Moth, or the tiny spores of a tree-killing fungal disease such as Oak Wilt.

Instead of taking firewood along on your next camping trip or bringing some home with you from far away, get your firewood where you're going to use it.  Make sure it is from trees harvested nearby, or buy firewood that has been processed to eliminate pests and diseases.  

Wisconsin regulates the movement of firewood in the state to help protect our trees and forests.  Property owners and managers may also have additional restrictions.  Here are some basic rules.

Rules for all of Wisconsin:

The quarantine for the Spongy Moth prohibits the movement of firewood east to west from infested to non-quarantined Wisconsin counties.  County, federal and private campgrounds may have their own firewood restrictions.  Call ahead or look online for specific information, including whether firewood is available at the campground.

Tips for your camping trip at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI-DNR) state park or other property:

Allowable firewood types:
-Allowed firewood meets the requirements in the "rules for state properties" section or is Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) certified.  Dimensional lumber (such as 2x4 or 4x6 scraps from a building project) without paint or preservatives will be allowed on state property at the discretion of park staff. 

Not Allowed:
-Full or partial pallets, skids, or slabs.  This wood may be fresh enough to harbor pests and has traveled long distances.  Wood that is painted, treated with preservatives or made up or a composite of wood and glue such as chipboard and plywood.  Toxins are released when this wood is burned, causing a serious health hazard. 
-Use up the firewood you have at each place on your camping vacation.  Do not take it with you to another destination.
-When buying firewood, make sure the pieces are dry and have either no bark or bark that is loose (a sign that the wood is very dry).  This will reduce the threat of spreading diseases and your fire will be easier to start.
-Reduce your need for open fire by cooking over gas or charcoal.  Instead of an evening campfire, explore new night-time activities such as star-gazing or viewing wildlife by flashlight.
-If you are a camper from outside of Wisconsin, please do not bring firewood with you.  If it originated from more than 10 miles from the campground and isn't certified, you will have to surrender it before checking into your campsite.