Forest fires don't just happen out west, they can happen in your backyard too.

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has been working tirelessly to put out a massive fire in Ulster County. What started only a few days ago, has now spread much farther than originally expected.

Credit - NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Credit - NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
loading...

According to the DEC, the Napanoch Point Fire in Wawarsing has grown to 270 acres. It is unknown if the fire is completely contained, due to ever-changing fire and weather conditions.

On August 30th, multiple crews were sent to put out the fires. Two Blackhawk helicopters completed 82 bucket drops on the day. This was in addition to the 87 drops done by two other helicopters occupied by the New York State Police.

Credit - NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Credit - NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
loading...

As of today, over 200 firefighters are working on three fires still in the complex. All efforts are being led by DEC Forest Rangers, with assistance from a variety of other outside sources.

Until further notice, Minnewaska State Park Preserve will still remain closed through Labor Day weekend. Updates will come as more fires are extinguished.

No word has been given as to what could have been the original source of the fire. DEC Forest Rangers want to use this time to remind campers, hikers and anyone traveling outdoors to be "fire safe" in the woods. It doesn't take much to start a fire in the woods and for it to spread quickly.

70 Stunning Country Living Photos To Prove There's More to New York than NYC

There's so much more to New York than just the Big Apple. From mountains and rivers to waterfalls and miles of wide-open spaces. Here are 70 picture-perfect country living moments to prove it.

Unique Ways to Move ATVs & Snowmobiles in Upstate New York

When you want to hit the trails and you don't have a truck, Upstate New Yorkers know how to improvise.

DEC Rescues 7 Animals in 20 Days

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation rescues humans lost or hurt while hiking, boating or just enjoying the great outdoors. But they also rescue the animals that call the outdoors home. Officers have rescued 7 animals in the last 20 days alone.

Photographer Captures Stunning Northern Lights In Old Forge

It's not really common to see northern lights in Central New York, but photographer Kurt Gardner captured the beautiful conformation of them near Old Forge.

7 Weird Things Seen In Central New York

More From Lite 98.7