QUINCY — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking public comment on a proposal that would close camping on a portion of Babcock Bench in the Ancient Lakes area of the Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area Unit. 

According to WDFW, the Ancient Lakes area is one of the most heavily used recreation sites within the Columbia Basin Wildlife Area, attracting campers who often hike about 1.5 miles from the trailhead to reach campsites. The agency says the remote camping area lacks restroom facilities and other services, creating management challenges. 

WDFW officials cited wildfire risk and habitat damage as primary reasons for considering the closure. The area frequently experiences illegal campfires, including during county burn bans and WDFW fire restrictions. Visitors often collect and burn sagebrush, which officials say is important wildlife habitat and has shown signs of heavy use impacts. 

Under the proposal, camping would still be allowed closer to the Ancient Lakes trailhead. Maps showing the proposed closure area are available on the WDFW website. 

“Continued camping in this area would require amenities such as a road, restrooms, designated campsites, or other features that would allow for proper maintenance and response,” Columbia Basin Wildlife Area Manager Richard Finger said in a statement. “If this is something that users of this area would want, we would work with stakeholders to pursue grant funding opportunities to carry it out, but it will likely take several years to develop.” 

Finger added that a complete burn ban may also be necessary to prevent further impacts to sagebrush habitat. 

WDFW is accepting public comments through Oct. 30 and is seeking feedback on how visitors use the area and what options could support future camping opportunities while protecting natural resources. 

The department will also host a virtual public meeting via Zoom from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6. Pre-registration is required. 

The public comment process runs alongside a State Environmental Policy Act review examining potential environmental impacts of the proposed closure. Additional information and comment opportunities are available through WDFW at bit.ly/WDFWPublicComment.