HAPPY'S INN — UPDATE 08-21-2026, 2:00 p.m. — The Deer Creek Fire has grown to 601 acres with 0% containment on Friday afternoon.
Fire crews are focusing on the west flank of the fire to establish an anchor point with the help of heavy equipment and air resources. Access points are limited to some parts of the fire perimeter, making conditions dangerous for firefighters. Emergency crews will continue to look for opportunities to construct lines on the southern and northwestern sides of wildfire. Additional resources have been ordered to help with suppression efforts.
The public is still asked to avoid the Pleasant Valley area at this time to ensure the safety of firefighters and the community. However, there are no evacuations in effect.
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The Deer Creek Fire was reported burning around 1:15 p.m. in the Pleasant Valley Area, about 6 miles north of Happy’s Inn in Lincoln County. The fire is estimated to be around 345 acres as of Thursday afternoon.
According to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, racecourses responding include six engines, two type 2 helicopters, 1 type 1 helicopter, and air attack, as well as excavator and logging equipment and multiple single engine air tankers.
First responses ask the public to avoid the Pleasant Valley area. Residents in the area should expect to see smoke and increased aircraft activity into the Thursday evening.
There are no evacuations in place, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
