Ranch barns near Prineville
Stock up on supplies or learn about Central Oregon history in this Ochoco River city.
- Prineville
Popular camping styles for Prineville
Ranch barns near Prineville guide
Overview
Set on the Ochoco River, Prineville was originally established as a timber town back in the 1870s. Today, it serves the Crook County area and features plenty of gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and supply shops, making it an ideal place to stop for supplies before heading out to the Ochoco Lake State Park or the Ochoco National Forest. However, you may wish to stick around to visit Ochoco Wayside State Park, hike up to Barnes Butte, or learn about local history at the old-timey Bowman Museum.
Where to go
Ochoco National Forest
Prineville sits on the western end of the Ochoco National Forest, a nearly million-acre expanse of trees, canyons, rivers and lakes. Camping opportunities abound here, with dispersed camping and campgrounds throughout the forest plus plenty of private options.
Deschutes National Forest
Spread out over nearly 200 acres, this massive forest offers ample opportunity to hike, bike, fish, and kayak. Popular attractions within the forest include Newberry National Volcanic Monument and Mount Bachelor.
Warm Springs
Owned by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, this sunny part of the state is characterized by rugged, arid landscapes and plenty of wild mustangs. It's also home to a number of attractions, including the Museum at Warm Springs.
When to go
Prineville is at its busiest in July and August, when kids are on summer vacation, though this time of year can be a bit hot for some people, with highs in the upper 80s and little to no rainfall. For more pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, the spring and fall shoulder seasons (in May and June and September and October, respectively) are ideal for many campers, with daytime highs in the upper 60s or 70s.
