To minimize impacts please use an existing site . Dispose of wash water at least 100' away from any water source. All water can carry giardia, a protozoa that affect the human intestinal system and can cause serious illness. Water can be treated by boiling at least 5 minutes, using iodine tablets or crystals, or filtering. Large hot fires or concentrations of charcoal and ash can sterilize soils, leaving them unable to sustain plant life.
Many visitors consider fire-rings an eyesore.
Build you fire in an existing fire-ring that is at least 100' from water. Do not build new fire-rings. Avoid having fires above treeline.