Kalamoir wildfire likely an escaped camp fire

Jun 19, 2026 | 4:27 PM

The Kalamoir Park Wildfire in West Kelowna earlier this week that forced hundreds of evacuations was likely caused by an escaped camp fire.

That’s the deduction of an investigation by the BC Wildfire Service, RCMP and West Kelowna Fire Rescue.

Camp fires are banned in local and regional parks.

The fire was determined to have originated within the RDCO park and to be human caused and accidental in nature, according to a statement from West Kelowna Fire Rescue Chief Jason Brolund.

The RCMP continue to take the lead in identifying those responsible.

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Fines of up to a thousand dollars are possible for the offence.

Hundreds of properties were tactically evacuated Tuesday afternoon although that was downgraded to an evacuation alert later in the day.

Brolund said the wildfire was determined to have originated within the RDCO park and to be human caused and accidental in nature. Indicators suggest it is likely that the fire was a result of an escaped campfire.

The RCMP continue to take the lead in identifying those responsible.

Each local jurisdiction sets rules around campfires on private property within their boundaries. At this time there are no campfire bans in place for private properties within the City of West Kelowna. Campfire bans are reviewed on a daily basis alongside partners across the region and with the BC Wildfire Service and are based on experts review of the prevailing fire danger rating and forecasted weather conditions.

This wildfire demonstrates how quickly a fire can grow and that only a small spark can have potentially devastating impacts. The public is urged to be vigilant, be responsible and be extremely cautious with fire, sparks and sources of heat as we move into wildfire season.

Residents may notice lingering smoke and ongoing movement of firefighting equipment in the area. If residents observe fire activity outside of designated or expected areas, report wildfires by calling *5555, or dial 911 for fires within city limits. It is imperative that residents and visitors keep a safe distance from the neighbourhoods in the wildfire-impacted zone. For public safety, Kalamoir Regional Park remains closed by the RDCO.

by Vernon Matters staff

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