Idaho is tracking active wildfire ignitions as the state moves into its typically dangerous mid-summer fire season. The Shingle Creek Fire burning southwest of Riggins is the most notable recent incident, while statewide conditions — including critically dry fuels and below-normal precipitation — point toward an active remainder of the season.

Shingle Creek Fire Update

The Shingle Creek Fire ignited June 21, 2026, in the Shingle Creek area approximately 6 miles southwest of Riggins in the lower Salmon River country. As of June 24, the fire was estimated at 614 acres. The fire is burning in remote, rugged terrain typical of central Idaho's river canyon country, where steep slopes and inaccessible terrain complicate both ground and air suppression efforts.

Riggins, a popular rafting and outdoor recreation hub on the Salmon River, has not faced direct evacuation orders, though residents and visitors in the area are urged to monitor conditions and be prepared to respond quickly if fire behavior escalates.

NIFC Lists Idaho Among States with Large Fires

Idaho is among the states listed in NIFC's national large fire tracking as of late June 2026. The National Interagency Coordination Center in Boise — which sits at the heart of the national wildfire response system — is coordinating resources across the West as fire activity remains elevated in multiple geographic areas simultaneously.

Idaho Fire Conditions Heading into July

Idaho's fire season typically peaks between mid-July and early September, when a combination of heat, low humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms with dry lightning creates prime ignition conditions. The Boise National Forest, Payette National Forest, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, and Sawtooth National Forest all face elevated fire risk as fuel moisture levels continue to decline.

Idaho ranchers, farmers, and recreationists are reminded that fire restrictions may be in effect on the national forests and BLM lands they use. Check firerestrictions.us or contact your local ranger district for current restriction status before using machinery, starting fires, or operating off-highway vehicles in dry vegetation.

Resources for Idaho Fire Information

  • InciWeb: inciweb.wildfire.gov
  • Southwest Idaho Interagency Fire: blm.gov
  • Idaho Department of Lands fire information: idl.idaho.gov
  • Boise National Forest: fs.usda.gov/boise
  • Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest: fs.usda.gov/nezperceclearwater