Jefferson County fire agencies had their hands full over the Fourth of July holiday, responding to multiple wildfire starts as hot, dry conditions and holiday activity combined to create elevated ignition risks across the region. The incidents served as a sharp reminder that Central Oregon's fire season is firmly underway.

Peninsula Fire Breaks Out at Crooked River Ranch

The most notable local incident was the Peninsula Fire, which sparked on the afternoon of July 4 in the 14800 block of SW Peninsula Drive in Terrebonne, near Crooked River Ranch. The fire was reported at approximately 0.25 acres when it was first detected, with fire crews quickly establishing a containment perimeter.

According to initial reports from Watch Duty and KTVZ, the blaze threatened at least one structure before crews brought it under control. Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue, along with mutual aid partners, responded to the scene. The fire was contained without any reported injuries or destroyed structures.

The Peninsula Fire was one of several incidents that stretched Central Oregon fire resources on the holiday, with other blazes reported from Bend to the broader high desert. Officials described it as an early taste of what could be a challenging season ahead.

Burn Restrictions: What You Need to Know

Jefferson County residents and visitors should be aware of current fire restrictions before heading outdoors:

  • Outdoor burning is currently CLOSED in Jefferson County and at Crooked River Ranch
  • The 2026 Oregon fire season has been in effect since May 8 and will continue until terminated by the State Forester
  • Oregon State Parks has issued a fire ban across many state park sites, prohibiting wood fires, charcoal, candles, tiki torches, and other devices that emit flames or embers and cannot be turned off with a valve
  • Propane stoves and gas grills with shut-off valves are generally still permitted, but check with the specific land management agency before use

Residents can check current restrictions for their specific area using the Oregon Department of Forestry's interactive fire restrictions map at oregon.gov/odf, or by calling the Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue Burn Information Line at (541) 923-4633.

Conditions Remain Dangerous

Fire weather conditions across Jefferson County and Central Oregon have been rated at extreme in recent weeks, according to the Central Oregon Fire Information website. Extreme fire danger means new fire starts are likely to spread rapidly.

With temperatures remaining well above normal, low relative humidity, and the Deschutes Basin already in drought, fire officials say the potential for large, fast-moving fires will remain elevated through the peak of summer. Residents in fire-prone areas — including Crooked River Ranch, the rural areas west of Madras, and canyon country near Maupin and Ashwood — are encouraged to ensure they have current evacuation plans and are signed up for Jefferson County emergency alerts.

To sign up for Jefferson County emergency notifications, visit the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office website or the Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue emergency alerts page.