Southern Oregon Outback
Discover the Southern Oregon Outback
The west is alive and kickin’ in Lake County! The area offers spectacular vistas of rich forests, century ranches and the breath-taking splendor of the high desert. Hang gliders and paragliders fill the skies in the summer, and the winter months are fabulous for skiing the powder of the Warner Canyon Ski Hill. This is a paradise for rock hounds, mountain biking, birding, hot springs, hiking, fishing and camping. Come and discover the excitement where the old west meets the very best.
Southern Oregon Outback Cities
Lakeview
Sheep and cattle ranchers first settled the town of Lakeview in the 1870s. Views of high-desert lakes and the Warner Mountains bring many travelers to the Oregon Outback Scenic Byway. Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge has pronghorn, sage grouse and bighorn sheep, or hike through the shifting sand dunes in Christmas Valley.
Summer Lake
Venturing to Summer Lake is an experience that offers more than just a destination; it’s a passage through the breathtaking high desert of Oregon.
Christmas Valley
A quaint community located in Lake County. Christmas Valley is named after nearby, dry, Christmas Lake. Explore the nearby scenic wonders of Fort Rock, Derrick Cave and all 11,000 acres of Christmas Valley Sand Dunes.
Visit the Oregon Outback
Embark on an adventure to the Oregon Outback in Southern Oregon, a vast and rugged landscape that stretches across the high desert, offering a serene escape into one of the most untouched regions in the Pacific Northwest. This expansive area, known for its stark beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreation, provides a unique and compelling destination for those seeking solitude, adventure, and a deep connection with nature.
Unparalleled Natural Beauty
The Oregon Outback is a land of contrasts, where high desert plains meet lush wetlands, and ancient volcanic landscapes are dotted with pristine alpine lakes. The region’s natural wonders include the captivating Playa of the Alvord Desert, the serene waters of Summer Lake Hotsprings, and the geological marvels of Fort Rock and the Oregon Badlands Wilderness. These landscapes offer breathtaking vistas and a sense of tranquility rarely found elsewhere.
A Haven for Wildlife and Bird Watching
The vast open spaces and diverse habitats of the Oregon Outback make it an ideal spot for wildlife observation and bird watching. From the majestic pronghorn antelope roaming the plains to the hundreds of bird species that migrate through the area, nature enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to observe and photograph Oregon’s native wildlife in their natural environment.
Outdoor Recreation Aplenty
For those who crave adventure, the Oregon Outback delivers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails traverse the region, offering access to remote areas and spectacular views. The clear, dark skies make for some of the best stargazing in the West, while anglers and kayakers can enjoy the quiet waters of the region’s lakes and rivers.
Getting There
North - South
Located near the California – Oregon – Nevada border, Lakeview County is situated along Highway 395.
East - West
Laying 2-hours East of Klamath Falls, the town of Lakeview is connected via Highway 140.
