A new wildfire ignited Sunday afternoon in heavy timber about 15 miles east of Prineville near White Rock Campground on the Ochoco National Forest, prompting an interagency response that included air tankers and helicopters.

The fire — reported at approximately 3:02 p.m. on July 12 — was quickly attacked by aerial resources. By Sunday evening, the Crook County Sheriff's Office confirmed that air attack had lined the fire with retardant and that helicopters dropping water had helped immensely.

"There does not appear to be any fire growth, but fire crews will remain on scene to monitor the fire," the sheriff's office stated at 7:10 p.m. "The cause of the fire is still under investigation. There are still NO evacuations for this area."

The fire was reported at approximately 0.5 acres with zero containment at initial report. Resources included three engines, one hand crew, overhead personnel, and air support. Jurisdiction falls under the Ochoco National Forest. Fuels were described as heavy timber.

Burn Restrictions in Effect Across Jefferson County

The wildfire comes as Jefferson County and surrounding Central Oregon remain under strict summer burn restrictions. Jefferson County Fire and EMS closed all open burning effective sunset on May 3, 2026, citing drying fire fuels and dangerous forecasted weather conditions.

Under current summer restrictions:

  • Open burning is closed countywide
  • Burning is only allowed in approved burn barrels with screens and a valid permit
  • Burning hours are limited to sunrise to 10:00 a.m. daily
  • Fires must be fully extinguished by 10:00 a.m.
  • A pressurized water source must be available at all times
  • Fires must be attended at all times

Campfires and cooking fires within Jefferson County Fire and EMS District service areas are generally allowed year-round but remain subject to seasonal restrictions during periods of elevated danger. Residents should check current conditions before lighting any fire.

Fire Danger Elevated Region-Wide

Central Oregon fire managers have flagged elevated fire danger across the region this summer following a dry spring and above-normal temperatures. The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, Crooked River National Grassland, and Prineville BLM District are all under fire restrictions limiting campfires, motorized equipment use, and other fire-risk activities on public lands.

Residents are urged to report any smoke or new fire immediately by calling 9-1-1. For current wildfire information and air quality updates, visit centraloregonfire.org. For Jefferson County burn restriction status, call 541-475-1789 before burning.