Predator odor stress increases CRF peptide content in vmPFC of rats that avoid a stress-paired context. Predator odor stress increases CRF cell counts in vmPFC of rats that avoid a stress-paired context. CRF infusions in the vmPFC produce conditioned avoidance. CRF1 receptor antagonism reduces avoidance of a stress-paired context. CRF1 receptor antagonism does not affect post-stress alcohol drinking.