Travel Oregon

Central Oregon Outdoor Recreation

From lava beds and towering mountains to sheer cliff walls and raging rivers, Central Oregon screams “extreme sports!” The Deschutes National Forest and surrounding wilderness areas offer endless opportunity for biking, hiking, horseback riding, camping and fishing. Mt. Bachelor’s powdery slopes offer world-class skiing and snowboarding, groomed Nordic trails, dog-sled rides, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. The winter snow that blankets the Cascades inexorably melts into the rivers and lakes, including the 252-mile long Deschutes River, renowned for its stock of fat trout and a favorite among anglers. White-water rafters and kayakers head to the lower river, famous for its towering rapids and rugged scenery. To cap your adventure climb the craggy spires of Smith Rock and trek along the world's largest obsidian flow at Newberry Volcanic Monument.

View all Central Oregon outdoor recreation


  • Bike Oregon

    Bike through single-track mountain trails or forest roads and explore the exhilarating highs and sleepy plateaus of the high desert.

    Bike Oregon
  • Camp Oregon

    Camp out under the stars next to a twisting river brimming with trout or get cozy in a warm yurt.

    Camp Oregon
  • Fish Oregon

    Chase legendary trout on the Deschutes, Metolius, Fall or Crooked Rivers and get ready to spin some darn good fish tales.

    Fish Oregon

  • Golf Oregon

    With world-class courses, unspoiled natural beauty, and sunny skies it’s no wonder Golf Digest ranks this one of the world’s best golf destinations.

    Golf Oregon

  • Hike Oregon

    With plenty of trails offering utter solitude, the region is a haven for hikers and backpackers.

    Hike Oregon

  • Other Activities

    Craving more adventure? Try four-wheelin’, horseback riding, rock climbing and more!

    Other Activities

  • State Parks

    The region’s 12 state parks are an ideal stepping stone for a multitude of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.

    State Parks

  • Water Sports

    Get wet and wild in the high desert—raft, kayak, boat or canoe the Deschutes, Metolius, and Crooked Rivers.

    Water Sports

  • Winter Sports

    Famous for its fluffy, dry powder, Mt. Bachelor offers world-class skiing and snowboarding. For tranquil adventure, try snowshoeing forest Trails.

    Winter Sports

Outdoor recreation data powered by Wildernet.com in association with Oregon State Parks and other federal partners. Disclaimer

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