Welcome to the Oregon Outback! If you’ve ever wanted to try hang gliding or bikepacking, this is the place to do it. This high desert plateau area contains mountains and large lakes, with lots of wide open spaces. The majority of land is publicly owned, resulting in the creation of places like the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, and the Steens Mountain Wilderness.

Fort Rock Homestead Village is a great way to experience some local history, and it serves as a gateway to other unusual sites, such as Crack in the Ground, and Hole in the Ground. In nearby Christmas Valley, discover Lost Forest – 9000 acres of Ponderosa pines that mysteriously grow in the middle of the desert.

Summer days can be hot, with a quick cooling after sundown. Temperatures can be cold in the winter, creating snowmobiling and cross country skiing opportunities. If you crave clean air and a sky full of stars with no big city pollution, Southeastern Oregon is a great choice.