Central Oregon firefighters have made significant progress on two fires that flared during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, with the Antelope Creek Fire now 80% contained and the Coyner Fire held to just over 20 acres near Redmond. Both incidents strained resources during a busy fire holiday weekend across the region.
Antelope Creek Fire — Wasco County
The Antelope Creek Fire ignited on Saturday, July 4, on the Prineville District Bureau of Land Management about one mile north of Antelope in Wasco County. The fire burned grass and brush and at its height prompted a Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation order for the entire town of Antelope as well as areas to the north and east. At the peak of concern, 10 primary structures were identified as being at risk.
By Monday, July 6, containment efforts had progressed substantially. Fire officials reported the blaze at 80% contained, and evacuation levels for Antelope were downgraded from Level 3 to Level 2 "Be Set," signaling improved conditions while keeping residents on alert. The National Interagency Fire Center situation report noted the fire was exhibiting minimal behavior — smoldering, creeping, and backing — with a possible transition to "last narrative report unless new information is received" status, indicating officials expect full containment soon.
Coyner Fire — Redmond
The Coyner Fire broke out near Redmond in Deschutes County, burning northwest of Tetherow Road and threatening homes and powerlines in the immediate area. Fire crews worked aggressively to stop the fire's forward progress and held the fire at 20.5 acres. A Level 1 evacuation level remained in place for nearby residences out of an abundance of caution, though no structures were reported lost.
The Coyner Fire was one of three wildfires that Central Oregon crews battled simultaneously during the holiday weekend, highlighting the region's vulnerability during periods of holiday activity combined with dry, breezy conditions.
Outlook
The Prineville District BLM and cooperating agencies including the Oregon Department of Forestry continue to monitor both fires as crews complete mop-up operations. Residents near the Antelope Creek Fire should remain prepared to leave quickly if conditions change, as elevated fire weather is expected to persist across north-central Oregon through mid-July. Central Oregon Fire Information (centraloregonfire.org) is the best source for real-time updates on both incidents.