Nearly half a hectare of river red gums were burned in Saturday's blaze.

DELWP district forest operations manager Tim Wishart said the gums were habitat for a variety of wildlife.

“The campfire did not comply with campfire regulations and was not extinguished correctly,” Mr Wishart said. 

“Soil was used instead of water to put out the campfire. On the surface, covering the campfire with soil may look like the fire is out but it can still smoulder underneath. 

“A good rule of thumb to test that your campfire is completely extinguished is if it is cool to the touch, it is safe to leave."

Mr Wishart said while most campers did "the right thing", the department was reminding them to never leave a campfire unattended and ensure it was properly extinguished with water.

“People are also reminded that campfires are not allowed under any circumstances on a day of Total Fire Ban day and it is your responsibility to check if any declarations are in place before you light one," he said.

Under the Forest Act 1958, on the spot fines of up to $455 can be issued for leaving a campfire unattended with a maximum penalty of up to $15,167. 

Anyone with information about this fire can call DELWP on 136 186. 

• Use a purpose built fireplace where provided, otherwise light your campfire in a trench at least 30cm deep. Ensure the trench is no larger than one square metre in size and the area around the trench is cleared of flammable material up to three metres in all directions, including above the campfire. 

• Branches and logs on your campfire must be less than one metre long – keep your fire just big enough for warmth and cooking. 

• Never leave a campfire alight or unattended. You must maintain a 50 metre line of sight of the campfire at all times. 

• An adult must be present at all times when the campfire is alight. 

• Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished using water. If it’s cool to touch, it is safe to leave.