Silver Lake, Oregon

Quiet Beauty on the Edge of the Outback

Remote, windswept, and full of high desert charm, Silver Lake is a tiny community surrounded by sweeping vistas, wildlife, and ancient geological wonders. Silver Lake is located in the northern part of Lake County, fondly know as Oregon’s Outback, where juniper hills meet sagebrush flats. An ideal basecamp for exploring Oregon’s volcanic past and present-day ranching culture.

With a population of under 200, Silver Lake offers peaceful solitude, open skies, and friendly locals ready to share stories of the high desert.

What to See and Do

Silver Lake and the Surrounding Basin

The lake itself is a shallow, seasonal playa—dry in summer, reflective in spring. It’s a favorite stopover for migratory birds and birdwatchers hoping to catch glimpses of sandhill cranes, pelicans, and raptors.

Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary

Silver Lake sits within the boundaries of the Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary, the largest certified Dark Sky Sanctuary in the United States. With minimal light pollution and high desert elevation, the night skies here are some of the clearest and darkest in the Pacific Northwest. Bring your telescope—or just your curiosity—and witness breathtaking views of the Milky Way, constellations, meteor showers, and distant planets.

Cowboy Dinner Tree

One of Oregon’s most iconic rural dining experiences, the Cowboy Dinner Tree is a must-visit. Located just south of town, it offers a one-of-a-kind, reservation-only meal with generous portions of steak, chicken, and all the fixings, served in a rustic lodge surrounded by high desert ranchland.

Oregon’s Outback Scenic Byway

Silver Lake sits along the Outback Scenic Byway, a remote stretch of Highway 31 that winds through lava fields, rimrock cliffs, and ancient lake basins. It’s a stunning road trip for travelers looking to unplug and enjoy big skies and vast landscapes.