Root Fire Grows to 668 Acres Near Castle Crags, Caused by Escaped Campfire

The Root Fire in Siskiyou County has grown to 668 acres with 0% containment as of Tuesday afternoon. Officials with the U.S. Forest Service confirmed the fire was sparked by an escaped campfire, and they are reminding residents and visitors to use extreme caution to prevent new ignitions.

The blaze is burning north of Castle Creek Road and west of Castle Crags, less than a mile from the Castle Crags Wilderness. Crews are using a direct attack strategy where terrain allows, cutting hand and dozer lines on the eastern and northern flanks of the fire. Hose lines are being reinforced, while aircraft, including two “super scooper” planes and a helicopter from the Swift Complex Fire, continue to provide critical air support.

Dozers are working to build containment lines along the 39N44 Road to reduce the risk of the fire spreading into the wilderness. Additional handlines are being constructed off the 38N40 Road to strengthen control on the eastern perimeter.

There are currently no evacuation orders, but evacuation warnings remain in effect for SIS-6200, SIS-6301, and SIS-6203. Residents in these zones should be ready to leave immediately if conditions change. Road closures include Forest Service 25 Road (Castle Creek Road) at Castle Crags State Park and at its intersection with Forest Service 26 Road.

No evacuation centers have been established for people or pets at this time.

Officials are urging the public to stay out of active firefighting areas and take precautions, including extinguishing all campfires and preventing sparks from vehicles or equipment.