Prineville Travel Guide

If you enjoy secluded wilderness and getting off the beaten path, head to the small high desert town of Prineville, Central Oregon’s oldest city. Prineville stands at the entrance to the Ochoco National Forest, a wonderful half a million or more acres of woodland, foothills, rivers, and lakes.

Things to Do in Prineville

Prineville gives you access to tons of wild spaces, trails, and outdoor activities. Hikers can head out into the Ochoco Forest and lose themselves in the wilderness areas of Mill Creek, Bridge Creek and Black Canyon Wilderness. If you’re lucky, you may catch sight of deer, bear, coyotes, and cougars. The Steins Pillar Trail will lead you through miles of thick trees and sunny meadows, while fisherman will enjoy spending time at Walton Lake, where trout fill the waters. Crooked River is perfect for fly fishing as well as exploring more trails and remote sections of river where you can see unspoiled nature up close.

In the town of Prineville you can get a taste of local history at the A.R Bowman Memorial Museum and discover when the town was an important center for mining, timber, and agriculture.

Best Time to Visit Prineville

Prineville is beautiful in summer, with long golden days to explore nature.