The fire, started by lightning, has also destroyed 45 homes and 110 other structures north of Palm Springs.
Forest officials said soaring temperatures nearing 100OF and gusts of wind were fanning the flames.
But fire crews are optimistic about preventing the blaze from spreading to the San Bernadino National Forest, where flames could wreck havoc among beetle-killed trees.
Evacuations orders have been issued in five communities and more than 3,000 structures are considered under threat. Pioneerstown, used as a backdrop in Hollywood westerns, was one of the areas affected by evacuation orders.
