ROCK FIRE UPDATE

This article was published in the July 25, 2026 issue.

The Rock Fire had burned 11,981 acres by Thursday afternoon and was 18% contained, with containment lines reaching Highway 395.

The fire, which started Monday near Black Rock Springs Road and Highway 395 between Big Pine and Independence, has spread west into the John Muir Wilderness, prompting the Inyo National Forest to close the area and several campgrounds.

The forest closure, effective Thursday, includes four trailheads connecting to the Pacific Crest Trail: Sawmill Pass, Red Lake, Taboose Pass and Birch Lake. Closed campgrounds include Goodale Creek Campground, Taboose Creek Campground and Tinnemaha Creek Campground.

Pacific Crest Trail hikers are being rerouted around the fire via Highway 395. 

As of Thursday, 986 personnel were assigned to the fire, including 110 engines, four dozers and two water tenders.

Firefighting efforts have been complicated by thunderstorms, high temperatures and shifting winds. Crews are also facing steep, rocky terrain and dense brush, which have made access and containment efforts more difficult.

Evacuation shelters were established at Big Pine Town Hall, Statham Hall/Senior Center in Lone Pine, and the Inyo County Consolidated Office Building in Bishop.