Natchitoches Parish Backbone Fire covering 2,409 acres, 58% contained

NATCHITOCHES PARISH, La. (KALB) - The U.S. Forest Service has shared updated details on the ongoing Backbone Wildfire in Natchitoches Parish.

The fire is approximately 15 miles south of Natchitoches, covering 2,409 acres.

It was first detected in the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area on August 3, 2025, resulting from a lightning strike. The Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area is approximately 8,700 acres.

A second fire was also detected about a mile from the first fire on August 4.

As of August 17, the wildfire was 58% contained.

After recent thunderstorms, the fire is creeping and smoldering within fire perimeters in various places.

Fire personnel continue to watch smoldering areas closely and have begun restoration efforts along the exterior and interior lines used for fire suppression.