Just got word about an hour ago via State Parks Facebook page that all Missouri state parks and historic sites have joined other agencies in an open fire ban until further notice.

The notice reads:
“Due to dry and excessively hot weather, Missouri State Parks has issued an OPEN FIRE BAN on all state parks and historic sites. The open fire ban includes prohibiting campfires and other open fires. Contained charcoal fires used for cooking as well as gas and cook top stoves are allowed under the open fire ban.”

They are also forwarding a link to this website: http://www.smokeybear.com/campfire-safety.asp as advice for people who plan to continue to have campfires elsewhere until temperatures cool and rain comes.