Prineville OregonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Prineville, Oregon.
1. Painted Hills
NATURAL WONDER
The Painted Hills are one of the most photographed natural wonders in Oregon, featuring colorful layers of earth that change appearance throughout the day. The hills are part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and showcase millions of years of geological history. Visitors can explore several short hiking trails that offer spectacular views of these unique stratified mounds.
2. Crooked River Scenic Drive
BREATHTAKING VIEWS
The Crooked River Scenic Drive offers visitors a spectacular route along one of Central Oregon's most picturesque waterways. The drive winds alongside the river, providing stunning views of the water, canyon walls, and surrounding landscapes. Nature enthusiasts can spot wildlife, find perfect picnic spots, and access fishing locations along this scenic route.
3. Prineville Reservoir State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Prineville Reservoir State Park encompasses a beautiful 3,000-acre reservoir with 43 miles of shoreline perfect for water recreation. The park offers camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities with stunning views of the surrounding high desert landscape. Stargazers will appreciate the park's designation as an official Dark Sky Park, making it ideal for nighttime astronomy.
4. A.R. Bowman Museum
OLD WEST HISTORY
A.R. Bowman Museum is a historical museum dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of the Old West with two floors of interactive exhibits and displays. The museum is housed in a historic building in downtown Prineville and showcases the area's pioneer history, ranching heritage, and local culture. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and stories that bring Central Oregon's past to life.
5. Crooked River Wetlands Complex
ENVIRONMENTAL WONDER
The Crooked River Wetlands Complex is a remarkable 120-acre multipurpose environmental project providing significant social, economic, and ecological benefits. The complex features 5.4 miles of trails for walking, running, hiking, and biking, with 3.25 miles paved for year-round use. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and the serene natural landscape while learning about this innovative sustainable alternative to traditional wastewater treatment.
6. Meadow Lakes Golf Course
AWARD-WINNING GOLF EXPERIENCE
Meadow Lakes Golf Course is rated as one of Oregon's leading golf courses, surrounded by beautiful scenery with blue ponds, green meadows, and the Crooked River. The 18-hole course was ingeniously designed to solve wastewater disposal issues, with nine ponds acting as evaporation spots to prevent contamination of the Crooked River. This environmental solution has been featured in multiple publications, earning the course the inaugural Golf Digest Environmental Leaders Golf Award.
7. Steins Pillar
ANCIENT GEOLOGICAL FORMATION
Steins Pillar is an impressive 350-foot monolith of welded tuff deposited during the collapse of the Wildcat Mountain Caldera approximately 40 million years ago. Visitors can hike a trail to the base of this towering natural landmark or view it from a designated viewing area along Mill Creek Road. The pillar stands as a testament to the region's volcanic history and provides a dramatic backdrop for outdoor photography.
8. Ochoco Creek Park
URBAN OUTDOOR RETREAT
Ochoco Creek Park offers a refreshing urban retreat in the heart of Prineville where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Ochoco Creek. The park features walking paths, picnic areas, and open green spaces perfect for family outings and community gatherings. Its central location makes it an ideal spot to relax after exploring downtown Prineville's shops and restaurants.
9. Ochoco Wayside State Park
SCENIC HILL TRAILS
The 66-acre Ochoco Wayside State Park offers picturesque views of Meadow Lakes Golf Course, Crooked River, and Prineville itself from the top of the hill west of town. Several miles of singletrack mountain biking and hiking trails wind through this natural area, providing recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park serves as a perfect vantage point for capturing panoramic photos of the Central Oregon landscape.
10. Crook County Courthouse
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Crook County Courthouse, completed in 1909, stands as the oldest public structure in Central Oregon. Constructed with brick and native basalt stone, this two-floor building with a basement, attic, and tree-clock tower was once one of the tallest structures in the state. The courthouse represents an important piece of Prineville's history and continues to serve as a functioning government building and architectural landmark.
11. Ochoco Reservoir
PEACEFUL WATER RECREATION
Ochoco Reservoir offers a more secluded alternative to Prineville Reservoir for fishing, boating, and water recreation. The reservoir is surrounded by the beautiful Ochoco Mountains and provides habitat for a variety of fish species including trout and bass. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views while experiencing less crowded conditions than at larger water bodies in the region.
12. Electric Bike Tour of Bend & Deschutes River
GUIDED ADVENTURE TOUR
The Electric Bike Tour of Bend & Deschutes River offers an exciting way to explore the natural beauty of Central Oregon on an electric-assisted bicycle. Guided tours take participants along scenic routes with views of the Deschutes River and Bend's most picturesque locations. This activity provides an eco-friendly adventure that's accessible to visitors of various fitness levels thanks to the electric assistance.
13. Bend Oregon Guided Lava Tube Cave Tour
UNDERGROUND ADVENTURE
The Bend Oregon Guided Lava Tube Cave Tour takes visitors beneath the surface to explore fascinating underground formations created by ancient volcanic activity. Professional guides lead small groups through these natural tunnels, explaining the geological processes that formed them and pointing out unique features along the way. This educational adventure offers a glimpse into Central Oregon's volcanic past while providing an exciting experience for visitors of all ages.
14. Chocolate Tour Including Hot Chocolate and Samples
SWEET CULINARY EXPERIENCE
The Chocolate Tour in Bend offers a delicious culinary experience featuring tastings of artisanal chocolate creations and specialty hot chocolate. Participants learn about chocolate-making processes while sampling a variety of sweet treats from local chocolatiers. This tour combines education with indulgence, making it a perfect activity for dessert lovers visiting Central Oregon.
15. Food Truck and Brewery Tour
CULINARY AND CRAFT BEER
The Food Truck and Brewery Tour explores Bend's thriving culinary scene with visits to popular food pods and craft breweries. Participants enjoy complimentary tastings of local beers while sampling diverse cuisine from innovative food trucks. This guided experience showcases the creative food and beverage culture that has made Bend a destination for foodies and beer enthusiasts.