Fir Fire sparks near Prineville, crews quickly contain spread

(Update: 7:24pm; Air attack has lined the fire with retardant.)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A small wildfire burning east of Prineville drew a swift multi-agency response Sunday afternoon, with air and ground crews working to keep the blaze from growing in heavy timber.

The Fir Fire was first reported just after 3 p.m. near White Rock Campground on Wildcat Mountain, about 15 miles east of Prineville in the Ochoco National Forest.

Fire officials estimate the fire at about half an acre with zero percent containment, though early suppression efforts appear to be limiting its spread. Air tankers lined the fire with retardant, while helicopters dropped water to slow activity.

According to air attack, the fire has shown little to no growth, and crews report a slow rate of spread in dense timber fuels. Firefighters worked to access the area as additional resources, including engines, a hand crew and overhead personnel, responded.

The Crook County Sheriff’s Office said there are no evacuations and no structures are currently threatened. The fire is burning off Forest Service Road 3350 near the campground.

Officials say the spread potential remains moderate, and crews will stay on scene to monitor conditions.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Reported: July 12, 2026; 4:28 pm

A new wildfire has been reported in Crook County, burning northeast of Prineville.

According to Watch Duty, the 0148 fire, is one fourth of an acre in size and is burning in timber.

Watch Duty is reporting a large air tanker has been requested to do one drop over the fire. In addition, two helicopters are responding as well as four single engine air tankers.

This is a developing story. Stay with the digital properties of KTVZ News for urgent updates.