This Oft-Overlooked County Has Some Of The Best Outdoor Recreation In Oregon
By Sarah McCosham|Published April 01, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
In a state that’s literally world famous for its outdoor recreation, there are some places that will undoubtedly be overlooked. Prineville, Oregon, is one of them. Prineville is a place of outstanding outdoor recreation and adventure, but it often plays second fiddle to Central Oregon’s darling, Bend. There’s room for them both, however, as each locale offers their own resume of wholly unique and exciting outdoor experiences. Here’s what you’ll find when you visit Prineville, Oregon:
Nestled within the Ochoco Mountains and alongside the mouth of Ochoco Creek, Prineville is a charming town in Central Oregon with a population of just around 10,000.
This photo overlooking Prineville was taken from the bluffs at Ochoco Wayside State Park, a wonderful spot for hiking in the region!
In the quaint downtown area you will find a variety of local businesses, museums, and restaurants. And while it's all incredibly charming, the real star of Prineville is, well, Prineville.
You see, the outdoor recreation of Prineville is extraordinary. This is a place that needs no frills or filters; the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of this region are incredible. From hiking and kayaking to fishing and hunting, this is absolutely one of the best places for outdoor adventure in Oregon!
If you're looking a beautiful overview of this Central Oregon town, the Crooked River Scenic Drive is the perfect way to view some of the amazing scenery in the area.
For epic outdoor recreation, the scenic beauty, camping, and water recreation at Prineville Reservoir are unrivaled. Mountain waters flowing out of the Ochoco Range join to form the Crooked River, which in turn creates the 15-mile long, 3,000-acre Prineville Reservoir, the park's namesake -- and centerpiece.
For climbing enthusiasts, the Smith Rock of Prineville is a must-visit. This is Steins Pillar, one of Central Oregon's most glorious hidden gems and worthy of a spot on your bucket list. Clocking in at a total of just under four miles round-trip, you can immerse yourself in the beauty and peace of Prineville, Oregon, along this glorious trail.
Of course, if you want to take in these scenic vistas *without* having to hike up a mountain, you can. I'll Fly Away Balloon Adventures takes adventurers above the skies of Prineville for an experience that's nothing short of magical.
Don't shy away from exploring Prineville during the cold-weather months, either; the Ochoco Mountains are absolutely sublime during the winter! Strap on your snowshoes and hit the trails.
Have you explored this oft-overlooked county in Oregon before? What kinds of adventures would you like to have in Prineville, Oregon? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!
