Oregon is experiencing one of the most severe wildfire seasons in recent memory, with 21 large fires burning across the state as of July 25, 2026. The Rowe Creek Complex in north-central Oregon stands as the dominant incident — a sprawling lightning-caused fire near Fossil that has now burned approximately 192,681 acres with only 27 percent containment.

Rowe Creek Complex: North-Central Oregon's Largest Active Fire

The Rowe Creek Complex ignited July 15 from a series of lightning strikes and has grown rapidly in the hot, dry, and windy conditions gripping north-central Oregon. Firefighters have focused suppression efforts along Highway 218, Pine Creek Road, and the corridor between Dry Hollow and Twickenham Road, working to establish defensible perimeters in rugged terrain of timber, grass, and brush.

As of Friday, containment stood at 27 percent — a meaningful gain over previous days — but the complex faces renewed pressure from the red flag warning in effect Saturday. Crews are reinforcing the west flank while strengthening existing firelines to withstand expected wind-driven runs. The fire is managed under the authority of the Prineville District BLM.

Hat Fire: Extreme Behavior East of Burns

Approximately 40 miles east of Burns, the Hat Fire on BLM Vale District lands is exhibiting extreme fire behavior characterized by wind-driven runs and long-range spotting. Evacuations, area closures, and road closures are in effect. Residents in Harney County should monitor Harney County Emergency Management for updates and be prepared to evacuate immediately upon orders.

Hay Creek Complex: Five Fires Near Condon

The Hay Creek Complex — comprising five separate fires — is burning on Prineville District BLM lands about five miles west of Condon in Gilliam County. The complex is exhibiting active fire behavior with wind-driven runs, flanking, and backing in grass and brush fuels. Northwest Incident Management Team 10 has been assigned to manage the complex.

Stage 2 Restrictions Now in Effect Across Central Oregon

Effective July 25, Stage 2 public use fire restrictions are in place on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, the Crooked River National Grassland, and the Prineville District BLM. Stage 2 restrictions prohibit:

  • All campfires, including in designated fire rings
  • Charcoal and wood fires in grills
  • Smoking except in enclosed vehicles or buildings
  • Use of fireworks or tracer ammunition
  • Operating a chainsaw without a spark arrester

Violations can result in fines up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail. Visitors should verify current restrictions at respective agency websites before heading into the backcountry.

Looking Ahead

With both the National and Northwest Geographic Area preparedness levels sitting at the maximum Level 5, resources are stretched across the region. Oregon's fire managers are prioritizing structures and evacuation corridors. Residents throughout eastern and central Oregon should maintain go bags, keep vehicles fueled, and monitor alerts from their local county emergency management offices.