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. Whether you’re exploring the nearby wildlife refuge or soaking in the restorative hot springs, Summer Lake offers an unforgettable escape from the everyday.
Christmas Valley
Christmas Valley, Oregon, is a serene desert community nestled in the heart of Central Oregon’s high desert. Named after nearby, dry, Christmas Lake, and known for its stunning landscapes, the area offers unique attractions like the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes, ancient lava flows, and the mysterious Lost Forest. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from off-roading and hiking to birdwatching and exploring the local wildlife.
Fort Rock
Fort Rock, a striking geological formation in Southern Oregon, rises dramatically from the flat desert landscape like an ancient fortress. Formed by volcanic activity over 100,000 years ago, this natural wonder is a massive, horseshoe-shaped rock wall that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which is rich in history, including nearby archaeological sites where ancient artifacts have been discovered, adding depth to the experience of this unique landmark.
Adel
Adel offers a glimpse into the quiet, rural life surrounded by scenic beauty, including nearby Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. This remote area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for solitude, wildlife viewing, and exploration of the high desert terrain.
Paisley
Famous for its annual Mosquito Festival the last full weekend in July, and known for its rustic beauty and tranquil surroundings, Paisley offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural splendor. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Summer Lake Hot Springs and Fremont National Forest, while the town itself provides a peaceful retreat with a welcoming community spirit.
Plush
Plush, Oregon, is a serene and remote gem nestled in the Warner Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by rugged mountains, alkali lakes, and rich wildlife, this small community offers an authentic escape into nature. Plush is also a gateway to discovering the unique geology of the area, including the famous Oregon Sunstone mines.
Silver Lake
Surrounded by vast landscapes of sagebrush and juniper, Silver Lake offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Oregon Outback. The area is known for its stunning sunsets, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. Silver Lake is home to the famed Cowboy Dinner Tree among other surprises.
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.
