Q: You often see pictures in ads with campfires on the beach. Is there anyplace in Florida where you could actually have a campfire supper on the beach? When visiting the beaches of northern California, the fire rings were along the coast for this purpose. Thanks -- Diann

A: That's a good question, Diann. I bet you're the romantic type.

Most Florida beaches try to stay away from fires directly in the sand. Beaches that get a lot of recreational use usually have grills or fire pits away from the beach, for cooking. I haven't personally seen any Florida beaches that have fires directly in the sand, but other folks seem to have done this. I'm going to say that some public beaches managed by cities and counties may allow beach campfires, but that state and national parks would not. However, I have seen the remains of fires on the beach at St. Joseph Peninsula State Park in the Florida Panhandle.

Please also keep in mind that when an area is experiencing a drought, no fires may be permitted at all. Dry conditions can cause fires easily and, as they say, it takes only a spark.

I wish I could point to a specific beach -- other than St. Joseph Peninsula State Park -- that allows fires. If you find a beach that does, I'd like to hear from you so others can know, too. Thanks!

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