Spokane Complex Wildfires Force Evacuations and Disrupt Outdoor Tourism Across Washington and Oregon

The Spokane Complex fires, which ignited August 1, have grown into one of the defining wildfire events of Washington’s 2026 season, forcing evacuations and destroying homes in the region. Almost 100 wildfires have burned more than 3 million acres across California, Oregon and Washington combined this year, disrupting outdoor tourism across the Pacific Northwest at the height of the summer travel season.

State emergency management officials have been issuing regular updates on evacuation zones, air quality and containment progress as crews battle the Spokane-area fires alongside numerous other blazes across the region. Multiple fires throughout Oregon and Washington have prompted road closures and area restrictions that have affected access to popular outdoor destinations, including some trailheads and campgrounds that would normally see heavy late-summer use.

Tourism-dependent businesses in fire-affected parts of the Pacific Northwest have reported canceled bookings as travelers reroute trips away from smoke-heavy areas, even in towns that are not under direct evacuation orders. Officials note that smoke can affect air quality and visibility across a much wider radius than the fire perimeter itself, complicating travel planning for visitors trying to gauge whether a specific destination will be affected.

Travelers with upcoming trips to Washington or Oregon should check state emergency management sites and the InciWeb wildfire information system for the latest on closures near their destination. Building flexibility into outdoor-heavy itineraries, and having a backup indoor plan for days with poor air quality, can help salvage a trip even if smoke affects part of the visit.

Sources: WA DSHS, NomadLawyer