Central Oregon is a region composed of Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties. It lies in the heart of the state and is divided, north to south, by the Cascade Mountains.
Nature in Central Oregon is magical. When the sands of Oregon High Desert are illuminated by sunlight they sparkle like precious diamonds. Then there are the towering Cascades that were formed millions of years ago as a result of erosion and movement of volcanic rock formations. Due to its unique geographic location surrounded by mountains, Central Oregon is sunny for as many as 300 days a year, and the sky is almost always a vivid cloudless blue.
Although the area is in the middle of a desert and dotted with bright red rocks, Central Oregon is also home to verdant vistas, lush forests, and a fair variety of animals. And as if that were not enough, Central Oregon is also a gateway destination for those wishing to visit the Painted Hills (coming from the Oregon coast, the bustling city of Portland, and Crater Lake, the spectacular volcanic lake in south-central Oregon (immediately north of California).
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Things to Do in Central Oregon
Spectacular rugged landscapes, rushing crystal-clear rivers, arid and hot deserts, you’ll find a little bit of everything in Central Oregon. You will also find things you might not expect. It is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in America (dogs are warmly welcomed everywhere, both in hotels and restaurants), and the region is home to more than 30 breweries that offer classic choices but also out-of-the-box variations.
In this region, the major towns rise almost one after the other along US-97, a long road that runs parallel to the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway for a stretch and starts in Northern California, crosses Oregon and Washington State, and ends at the Canadian border. This is the route you will take when you are coming from Crater Lake National Park and you intend to travel to the Painted Hills or other attractions north of the state.
Below all the attractions in Central Oregon are broken down by the towns you will encounter along this major route or its immediate environs.
La Pine and surroundings
La Pine is located in Deschutes County and is a small, fairly isolated town with a few small houses scattered here and there along U.S. Highway 97. Nevertheless, it is an excellent starting point for those who wish to explore the wonders of its surroundings.
Outback Scenic Byway
Let’s start on the Oregon Outback Scenic Byway, one of the most significant scenic spots in Central Oregon. The road crosses a desert area, surrounded by fiery red rocks and low shrubs, that may remind you of the American wilderness in which sheriffs and outlaws pursued each other on horseback.
This is the land of dusty mugworts, boulders, and American antelope, or pronghorn, (by the way, did you know it is one of the fastest animals in the world, after the cheetah?!). The landscape is endless and it gives you a feeling of absolute freedom and peaceful solitude.
Fort Rock State Natural Area
Moving south, beyond the Byway, another place to visit is Fort Rock State Natural Area (a 38-minute drive from La Pine). As you approach it, you may think you are seeing an illusion. In the middle of the vast, flat desert, you will find this huge rock whose features make it look like a fortified structure. It is a huge ring made of volcanic tuff. Thousands of years ago, it might have been surrounded by water.
In one of the caves near Fort Rock, footwear has been found that has turned out to be the oldest ever discovered in America (if not the world). These sandals are estimated to be between 9,000 and 10,000 years old. Fort Rock Cave can be visited, but only with a reservation and you must arrive at least 15 minutes before the guided tour begins. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and provides excellent information about Native American life, history, and customs. The cost per person is $15. Finally, I would like to mention that 38 minutes away from La Pine there is the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which I mentioned among the attractions near Bend.
Sunriver and surroundings
One of visitors’ favorite locations in Central Oregon, Sunriver is a quaint and welcoming destination, a real must-see if you are vacationing in that area. It is conveniently located near many attractions. Let’s look at some of the top attractions.
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Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory
The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory (a 6-minute drive from Sunriver) is an organization that aims to educate people about nature, science, animals, and galaxies. Here, in fact, experienced naturalists help people discover and understand more about animal species such as griffon vultures, trumpet swans, and eagle owls, as well as the many local Oregon plant species kept in the botanical garden.
Meanwhile, in the observatory, you can explore galaxies and stars by watching shows about the cosmos, or through observation of the night sky. For more information about the hours, admission, and how to access the Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory, visit the official website.
Outdoor activities nearby
Water activities on the Deschutes River are also very popular. For example, you can canoe, go paddleboarding or kayaking, and there are areas that are even safe for kids. North and south of Sunriver there are two golf courses:
- The Crosswater Golf Course (4-minute drive from Sunriver) is one of America’s top 100 golf courses, boasting an impressive 600 acres near the Deschutes and Little Deschutes Rivers.
- The course to the north, Woodlands Golf Course, is an 8-minute drive from Sunriver and is beautified by yellow pine forests, volcanic rocks and pleasant man-made lakes. This golf course is located on the Sunriver Resort which offers elegant and cozy rooms, restaurants, cafes, and a spa.
Finally, one cannot talk about Sunriver without also mentioning horseback riding. There are many trails (and hikes) that are suitable even for young children. Some of the most popular ones that can be reached within a 6-minute drive are the Pines Trail Ride (45 minute), designed especially for beginners, which involves riding along a flat trail that skirts the river, and the Great Meadow Trail Ride (1 hour 15 minutes) that winds along flat and non-flat trails, over dirt roads and through fields.
Bend and sourroundings
Bend is the most populous and well-known town in the region and is a base for exploring some of the state’s most fascinating mountain peaks, such as South Sister, Broken Top, or Mount Bachelor. This town also marks the beginning of the stunning Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, a scenic route that passes through the Cascades, crystal-clear lakes, and geological formations produced by glacial and volcanic activity. I highly encourage you to include some truly phenomenal nearby attractions in your itinerary.
Mount Bachelor
Starting with Mount Bachelor (just a 30 minute drive away), a famous and popular ski destination and among the top six largest in North America. This mountain is a stratovolcano and is composed of layers of lava, volcanic ash, and magmatic rocks. This is what creates the incredible slopes that are perfect for skiing or snowboarding.
Usually, the ski season lasts from mid-November to late May and is one of the longest in all of America. When snow is not present, however, the mountain also lends itself well to other activities such as high-altitude hiking or mountain biking exploration.
Tumalo Falls and the Cascade Mountains
Mount Bachelor is, moreover, an integral part of the Cascade Mountains, which traverse five national forests- Mt. Hood, Deschutes, Willamette, Umpqua, and Rogue River. This mountain range, formed during the Pliocene period, is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
In fact, there is skiing, hiking, and climbing, as well as rafting and fishing. One of its most spectacular attractions is Tumalo Falls. They can be reached via the Tumalo Creek Trail (6.5 miles long and 584 ft of elevation gain). One can admire the falls (98 ft high) from the comfort of the picnic area and, from there, continue on foot or by bicycle into the wilderness.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Equally incredible, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument (a 40-minute drive from Bend) is a protected area that is home to the Lava Lands (which we have already told you about in our Crater Lake to Lava Lands itinerary), a geological wonder formed some 7,000 years ago by the explosion of Lava Butte. The monument is a treasure trove of crystalline lakes, lava flows, rivers, and outstanding natural vistas.
The place is almost space-like, and even NASA used it in the 1960s to send its astronauts there to experience an environment that could be similar to that of the moon. There are almost endless activities to enjoy, including biking, fishing, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
High Desert Museum
Also worth mentioning is the High Desert Museum (a 10-minute drive from Bend), an amazing museum where you can see local animals (otters, hedgehogs, badgers, owls, and hawks, among others), learn about Native American culture, and visit an ancient sawmill. Of course, many of the seasonal exhibits are dedicated to the desert and its characteristics and focus on artifacts, trades, clothing, and lifestyles related, precisely, to the desert.
The High Desert Museum is open daily, except on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, with different hours depending on the season (detailed and updated information here).
Redmond and surroundings
Redmond is a small but very important town in the region and attracts tourists because of its vibrant downtown, excellent cuisine (including craft beer), and outdoor activities. Here is a useful guide to attractions to visit in the surrounding area.
Redmond Caves
The Redmond Caves (a 5-minute drive from downtown Redmond) are a small but valuable gem to visit. It consists of five caves formed over centuries as a result of volcanic eruptions and magmatic flows caused by the Newberry Caldera. The caves, already in use more than 6,000 years ago by Native Americans, are around 80,000 years old. You can visit the caves in about an hour and there is no entrance fee.
Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
Just an 8-minute drive from Redmond is the Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint. This is a quiet and peaceful area, perfect for enjoying moments of relaxation or picnicking outdoors, or simply lying under a tree and reading a book, lulled by the murmur of the Deschutes River.
If you walk downstream, finally, you will reach the small waterfalls also named after Cline, a dentist and Redmond resident who formerly owned this land. For those who wish to do so, it is possible to bathe in the pools of water that form between the rocks. In the spots where the water flows faster, people engage in water sports such as rafting, canoeing, and kayaking.
Petersen Rock Garden & Museum
Finally, the Petersen Rock Garden & Museum (a 12-minute drive from Redmond) is a quite fascinating place. A place of historical interest, the construction of this rock garden began with the brilliant idea of a Danish immigrant, Rasmus Petersen, who started it in 1935. The designer built miniatures of castles, churches, and cottages surrounded by moats, fountains, bridges, and towers (as well as replicas of famous monuments, such as the Statue of Liberty)
His creations were composed of a diverse array of materials as stones, everyday objects, shells, and pieces of glass. What can be admired, today, is an eclectic collection of fascinating works arranged along winding paths, accompanied by the numerous peacocks that inhabit the place. You cannot miss the chance to see the “phosphorescent room” in which there are miniature castles that glow in the dark because they are composed of uranium, zinc, manganese, and crystals. The Petersen Rock Garden & Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with free admission (but a voluntary donation is suggested). NEWS: THE MUSEUM IS CURRENTLY CLOSED (DECEMBER 2022).
Sisters and Surroundings
Next is Sisters, a lively and spirited small town that comes alive during the various events and festivals it hosts. The most important ones are the Rodeo, the Quilt Show, and the Folk Festival. The town, named after the three mountain peaks to the west, is a marvel of the Old West. The facades of the houses in the small town are still the original ones from the 1800s, and the atmosphere harkens back to the heyday of gold hunting and gun duels.
The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway, a road that crosses snow-capped volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls, also begins in Sisters and leads to beautiful mountain peaks such as Broken Top Mountain and Three Sisters. In addition, Sisters is also a fascinating place to visit because of its events, as I mentioned above.
Sisters Rodeo
Let’s start with the famous Sisters Rodeo. 2022 marked the 75th anniversary: it was first held in 1940 when amateur and professional cowboys competed against each other and it became a real success. In addition to the exciting challenges that still characterize the event today, the Sisters Rodeo is a festive gathering that includes a colorful parade of cowboys (and cowgirls) dressed in typical West riding costumes and riding horses, vintage American cars adorned with stars and stripes flags, and lots of folk music.
To take part in the competitions, you must have an admission ticket, the cost of which varies depending on the shows and the seat you choose. Prices start at $16. For more information, visit the event website at the official page.
Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show
Equally impressive is the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show. People from all over the world come to see the world’s largest outdoor event dedicated to displaying handcrafted quilts (Hood Avenue is closed to traffic for the occasion). Each year the public can admire more than 1,300 works of art produced by artists from around the world.
Besides exhibitions, there are workshops and classes. Some of the creations can be purchased and it is an opportunity to take a unique and rare item home with you. In addition, in the days leading up to the exhibition, meetings are held with some of the master craftsmen who tell stories and talk about what influenced and led to the creation of these unique items. Participation in the event is totally free.
Sisters Folk Festival
The Sisters Folk Festival also deserves to be mentioned. It is a popular event for fans of folk music, and every year it draws dozens of talented folk musicians who perform in seven different locations in the town. Visitors can enjoy a variety of street food and exhibitions by local artists (painters, sculptors and goldsmiths), whose works can be purchased. The cost of admission to the concerts varies depending on the day chosen.
Prineville and surroundings
Prineville, a historic town dating back to 1877, is the oldest town in the region. Located in the heart of the Crooked River Caldera, the remarkable concentration of gemstones found here has earned it the nickname Rockhound Capital of the USA. But it is also important from a strategic point of view. Located about 1 hour from the beautiful Painted Hills, it is in fact an excellent overnight option for those traveling from Central Oregon to the famous colorful hills. Let’s take a look at what there is to see nearby.
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Bowman Museum
First, there is the Bowman Museum, which opened in the 1970s and serves as a place to experience and “savor” the history of the Crook region and Central Oregon. The building in which the museum is housed was donated to the city by the Bowman family on the condition that the building be used solely as a museum site of culture and tradition. Inside, exhibits are constantly evolving and expanding, thanks to ongoing donations from private individuals and other historical entities.
There are original artifacts from the pioneer era, an extensive exhibit devoted to the railroad system, exhibits dedicated to the world of ranching and forestry, and then period decor, furniture, clothing, and a wonderful collection of old photographs. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
Steins Pillar and Prineville Reservoir
Nature and outdoor enthusiasts may be interested to know that not far from Prineville are Steins Pillar and Prineville Reservoir.
The former is a huge column of volcanic origin (just over 20 minutes by car from Prineville), formed over millennia by erosion from weathering. Imposing and majestic, it towers over Crook County, and the nature around it lends itself well to easy walking or biking.
Then, the second is a reservoir nestled in the volcanic plain on the outskirts of the city (about a 24-minute drive away). This area is rich in natural scenic beauty including mugwort and juniper plants and is inhabited by a wide variety of wildlife such as chionids, birds of prey and waterfowl, Recurvirostra, gray foxes, and mountain lions. An excellent destination for bird-watchers, Prineville Reservoir is also an ideal destination for those who enjoy camping, fishing, and, most importantly, admiring the starry sky. In fact, the park has obtained the international certification of Dark Sky Park, which attests to the astounding clarity of the sky at night without the disturbance of external light sources or pollution.
Terrebonne and surroundings
Terrebonne is a small community that seems to be perfectly framed by the scenic landscapes of the High Desert, the ideal setting for many outdoor activities, from hiking to hot air balloon rides. Its name comes from the French word for “good land” and seems appropriate in this case.
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Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park, a beautiful park full of rocks to climb, trails to explore on foot, bike or horseback, and Instagrammable scenic views, is an outdoor scenic attraction waiting to be discovered. For tips, trails, routes, and other information, read our article on Smith Rock State Park.
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint
Last but not least, is the Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint (about a half-hour drive from Bend). This is a protected area overlooking the Crooked River and the beautiful canyon carved by the waterway, from which to take sensational photos. For those who wish, it is possible to follow marked trails with informational panels that run along the course of the river, or those who are more adventurous can dare to jump into the void in bungee jumping sessions.
In this section, the canyon is crossed by three bridges, two of which are historic and worth seeing and photographing: the Railway Bridge (built first in 1910), the Crooked River High Bridge (built in 1926), and the Rex T. Barber Veterans Memorial Bridge (which was opened in 2000).
Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards
Finally, I recommend that you also include in your itinerary a stop at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards (a 40-minute drive from Bend). It is a prestigious winery much loved by locals and others, offering both sublime tastings of local nectars and evenings of live music. Among the wines produced on the 15-acre estate, the most famous reds are Marquette, Leon Millot, and Frontenac.
For those who prefer whites, the estate produces some excellent wines including LaCrescent, La Crosse, and Frontenac Gris. Then one can appreciate more “classic” wines such as Merlot, Barbera, and Pinot Noir, but these are made using grapes from other states (primarily Washington and the Columbia Valley). Nevertheless, the estate covers a total area of 312 acres and is nestled between mountain ranges and the Smith Rock State Park. Activities and events at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards are weddings, wine-tasting sessions, an event planning center, and amazing performances.
Culver and surroundings
Culver is a small town that was founded in Jefferson County in 1900 to serve as a post office and became a full-fledged town in 1946. Since then, it has not changed much, which allows Culver to maintain its historic charm. Located between Redmond and Madras, Culver is nostalgic yet with a modern twist provided by the many fun festivals throughout the year and by the activities the surrounding area offers.
Warm Springs Indian Reservation
For example, the Warm Springs Indian Reservation (just under a 40-minute drive from Culver), run by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs (three in all, the Wasco, Tenino, and Northern Paiute who united in a confederation in the late 1930s). It is very interesting to visit, both because of the Native American customs and traditions that have been preserved, as much as possible, and also because the Chinook dialect is still spoken within here, allowing the three tribes to interact with each other.
Cove Palisades State Park
If you are a nature lover, then you will also like Cove Palisades State Park (a 15-minute drive from Culver). Located in Jefferson County, the park is a popular hub for activities such as boating on the placid waters of Billy Chinook Lake (a man-made reservation built in ’64 within the Deschutes River), camping, overnight houseboats, fishing and hiking.
I recommend taking the scenic Tam-a-lau Trail (10.5 miles round trip, with a total elevation gain of 807 ft and an average duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes). As you hike on the trail, you will come across viewpoints over the Crooked River, and Billy Chinook Lake, and then you will arrive at the end at Island Viewpoint, a rocky plateau from which the view is lost over the crystal-clear waters and towering canyon rocks that meander into the river.
Also worth mentioning is the Opal Springs Hydro Dam (about a 12-minute drive from Culver) built on the Crooked River, which supplies water to surrounding areas in Jefferson County. The imposing and historic dam was built in 1920 and underwent modifications and improvements thereafter. Also, Haystack Reservoir, located in the Ochoco National Forest & Crooked River National Grasslands, is a perfect place for hiking or fishing.
Juniper Butte
Finally, if you are an avid hiker, you cannot miss Juniper Butte, a 6.2-mile trail that is completed, round trip, in about 2 hours 54 minutes (with an elevation gain of 1086 ft). During the walk you will pass by numerous juniper trees (which give the trail its name), sage plants, and cows grazing placidly in the meadows. Upon reaching the summit, the 360-degree view of Culver and the surrounding nature is truly spectacular.
Oregon Hoodoos (Metolius Balancing Rocks)
The Metolius Balancing Rocks, one of the most unique and strange geological attractions in Central Oregon, are fascinating clusters of rocks literally balanced on stony pillars on a hillside overlooking the Metolius River and Billy Chinook Lake.
Also known as “Ghost Rocks” or more simply Oregon Hoodoos, the rocks formed about 20,000 years ago. Here visitors can reconnect with nature and explore the area comfortably on foot. Metolius Balancing Rocks are open daily. Because it can be very hot, I recommend that you bring plenty of water and wear breathable clothing.
Metolius and surroundings
Small and collected, Metolius was founded in the early 1900s and it is named after the word “mitula” (white salmon). It is located near Lake Billy Chinook and is ideal for those who want to have a quiet and relaxing vacation. Therefore, do not expect noise and crowds, because you will not find them here. There are some attractions in its surroundings that are worth including in your travel itinerary.
Round Butte
Round Butte gives its name to 3 attractions in the vicinity of Metolius: a plateau, a dam, and a viewpoint. The massive hydroelectric dam built on the Deschutes River in the 1960s, is about a 13-minute drive from Metolius. Stop here and admire this engineering feat (the largest in all of Oregon), before continuing on to Round Butte Overlook Park (an 8-minute drive from the dam), a beautiful and exciting natural oasis that provides unparalleled views of Deschutes River Canyon. From here, you can have a bird’s eye view of Billy Chinook Lake and Lake Simtustus. While you are there, admire the sky where you can spot majestic bald eagles and ospreys that soar above the park. Also about a 16-minute drive from the town is the aforementioned Cove Palisades State Park.
Madras and surroundings
Madras, the capital of Jefferson County, is a town founded in 1911in defense of American ships during. Also known as “the Basin,” because of its location (it is set in an oval-shaped valley), it is ideal as a starting point for numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, golfing, and fishing. Fishing is so popular that even children have at their disposal a small fisherman-friendly lake where they can train and practice, while adults can fish in the Deschutes River, Lake Billy Chinook (rich in trout), or the Crooked River, just to name a few.
Rimrock Springs Trail
For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous viable trails for all tastes and abilities. One of the most popular is undoubtedly the Rimrock Springs Trail (the 1.9-mile hike had a total elevation gain of just 197 ft and an average duration of 47 minutes). It is suitable for biking and easily accessible to everyone. The trail winds along pristine natural vistas and is dotted with picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air. Admission to the trail is totally free and you are welcome to bring your dogs along too.
Erickson Aircraft Collection
Finally, another interesting fact about Madras is that people here particularly love airplanes and anything to do with aviation. So much so that, near the city airport, there is the Erickson Aircraft Collection, a collection of vintage aircraft. Here one can admire twenty rare planes, most of which are still safe and fit to fly.
Some examples of the most prized ones are the P-38 L Lightning, a twin-boom aircraft used by the U.S. Army during World War II, the P51-D Mustang, in use in the 1940s and takes people on scenic flights (with a reservation), and the FM-2 Wildcat, a model that was used in defense of American ships during the Pearl Harbor attack.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning the “Soaring with the Warbirds” experience, which gives the opportunity to board (and fly) a historic aircraft in use during World War II, soaring over such natural wonders as Billy Chinook Lake, Mt. Jefferson, Haystack Reservoir and Smith Rock. The thrilling flight takes about 20 minutes. The museum is open daily, except Mondays and on public holidays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information on the cost of admission, refer to the official website.
Shaniko Ghost Town
Finally, Shaniko, a 40-minute drive from Madras, is a ghost town that attracts tourists from all over every year who are passionate about mysteries and haunted places, or allegedly haunted places. Buildings here can still be visited. For more in-depth information, I suggest you read our article on Shaniko Ghost Town.
