17 INSANELY Cool Things to Do in Central Oregon

Central Oregon isn’t just a destination—it’s an entire adventure zone packed with lava tubes, high desert canyons, volcanic lakes, waterfalls, and wide-open wilderness.

And while Bend gets all the glory (for good reason), the real magic happens when you explore beyond the city. From the painted hills in the north to hot springs and Crater Lake in the south, this region is stacked with variety—and surprisingly uncrowded.

Central Oregon is actually our jam, as we are based in Bend. We’ve been everywhere numerous times and have only included the most worth-it spots just for you!

Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Central Oregon—a mix of iconic stops and lesser-known gems that prove there’s way more to this region than just breweries and mountain bikes.

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1. Discover Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Tucked away in the northeastern fringe of Central Oregon, Cottonwood Canyon feels like a world apart.

Massive cliffs tower above the John Day River, creating dramatic views that shift as the light changes throughout the day.

Hike the Pinnacles Trail for epic canyon scenery, go birdwatching along the riverbank, or just kick back at one of the quietest campgrounds in the state.

This is desert solitude at its finest, with star-studded skies at night and plenty of open space to stretch your legs.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Cottonwood Canyon State Park, Oregon

2. Visit The Forgotten About White River Falls State Park

This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it stop packs a punch. Just a short walk from the parking lot, you’ll find a powerful, two-tiered waterfall plunging into a rocky canyon, framed by basalt walls.

An old hydroelectric plant at the base adds a cool, abandoned industrial vibe. You can hike a short trail down to the ruins, dip your toes in the river, and snap photos from every angle.

It’s a perfect picnic stop if you’re heading east from Mt. Hood.

READ MORE: White River Falls: The Oregon State Park You Don’t Know About!

3. Snap The Stunning Painted Hills and John Day Fossil Beds

Arguably one of the most photogenic places in the state, the Painted Hills are a Central Oregon showstopper. Layers of reds, yellows, and golds ripple across rolling hills, showcasing millions of years of geologic history.

Take the short Painted Cove Trail for that iconic boardwalk view, or hike the Carroll Rim Trail for a panoramic shot. Visit near sunset for mind-blowing colors, and don’t skip the nearby fossil beds and visitor center for more context.

READ MORE: The Painted Hills: Oregon’s Most Alien Landscape

4. Explore The Ochoco National Forest

East of Prineville, the Ochocos offer a quieter, lusher alternative to the Cascades. You’ll find mountain meadows, ponderosa pine forests, and loads of wildlife.

Lookout Mountain is a great summit hike with sweeping views, and Walton Lake is perfect for an easy stroll or paddle.

This is also a great place to camp without the chaos of Bend-area sites. Bonus: wildflowers in summer, golden aspen leaves in fall.

READ MORE: Your Guide to The Ochoco National Forest in Oregon

5. Check Out Redmond

Redmond has been stepping up its game. Beyond its growing food and brewery scene, it’s home to a network of paved and dirt trails in Dry Canyon, a massive cut through the middle of town that’s ideal for walks, bike rides, or family picnics.

Petersen Rock Garden offers a bizarre but lovable roadside stop with miniature stone castles. Don’t miss SCP Redmond’s rooftop bar for a sunset drink with mountain views.

6. See The Alien-Looking Smith Rock State Park

Known worldwide for rock climbing, Smith Rock is just as amazing for hikers and photographers.

The Misery Ridge Loop is a challenging climb with jaw-dropping payoffs, offering views of the Crooked River and jagged cliffs.

Easier options like the River Trail let you meander through the canyon floor with plenty of stopping points. Come early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Smith Rock State Park

7. Lava Tubes, Caves & High Desert Museum, Oh My!

The area south of Bend is a volcanic playground.

You can walk through the mile-long Lava River Cave (bring a headlamp—it’s dark!), scramble through lesser-known lava tubes like Boyd Cave, or wander the surreal landscape of the Big Obsidian Flow.

Nearby, the High Desert Museum ties it all together with exhibits on regional wildlife, Indigenous culture, and natural history. It’s actually one of the best museums in the Pacific Northwest—no joke.

READ MORE: Your Guide To Newberry National Volcanic Monument

8. Road Trip The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

This stunning drive takes you through the heart of the Cascade Range, linking a series of high-elevation lakes that are perfect for paddling, swimming, or just hanging out on a warm day.

Popular stops include Sparks Lake for canoeing, Devil’s Lake for its insane turquoise color, and Elk Lake for a beer and burger after a dip.

In the fall, the larches turn golden. In the summer, pack a swimsuit and a cooler and just bounce between lakes.

READ MORE: Exploring The Cascade Lakes in Oregon—Hiking, Camping, & Water Sports

9. Chase Waterfalls in The Area

Tumalo Falls is the headliner, with a short path leading to a view straight across from the thundering drop.

But it’s just the beginning. Hike further to reach Double Falls and more cascades deep in the forest.

If you’re chasing more waterfalls, head to Proxy Falls near McKenzie Pass (mossy and magical), Steelhead Falls near Terrebonne (with a swim hole!), or Chush Falls in the Three Sisters Wilderness for a more remote feel.

READ MORE: 10 Waterfall Hikes Near Bend That Are Worth Visiting

10. Hike the Epic McKenzie River Trail

Arguably one of the best trails in Oregon for both hiking and biking. The trail follows the impossibly clear McKenzie River past waterfalls, lava fields, old-growth forest, and hot springs.

The Blue Pool (Tamolitch Falls) is the crown jewel—a shockingly blue, icy basin that looks like a tropical lagoon. You can tackle short sections or go big and bike the full 25+ miles point-to-point. Either way, it’s stunning.

Don’t miss out on Koosah or Sahalie Falls either!

READ MORE: Hiking The EPIC McKenzie River Trail in Oregon

11. Have Fun in The Snow at Mt. Bachelor

In winter, Bachelor is a major ski and snowboard hub with over 4,000 acres of terrain. In summer, it transforms into a hiking and mountain biking spot with chairlift access to wildflower meadows and mountain views.

Ride to the summit, play disc golf down the mountain, or just grab a beer at the lodge and soak in the view of the Three Sisters. Year-round, this is a go-to adventure base.

READ MORE: What to Do at Mount Bachelor in Winter

12. Explore The Three Sisters Wilderness

This is classic Central Oregon backcountry: volcanoes, wildflowers, alpine lakes, and views that just don’t quit. The Green Lakes Trail is popular—and for good reason.

But Broken Top Crater and Tam McArthur Rim offer equally stunning hikes with fewer crowds. If you’re up for a big challenge, we love the South Sister trail.

You’ll need a Central Cascades permit in summer, but plan ahead and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best hiking in the state.

13. Tackle a Deschutes River Adventures

The Deschutes winds its way through Bend and beyond, offering options for lazy floats, technical rapids, paddleboarding, fishing, and riverside hiking.

The Deschutes River Trail in Bend is a favorite for quick access to water views.

For bigger thrills, whitewater rafting trips run near Maupin and Sunriver. There are even hot springs and hidden beaches if you know where to look.

14. Visit Bend

Downtown Bend is cozy, walkable, and packed with personality. Think local shops, indie bookstores, craft breweries, and cafés with sidewalk seating.

It’s the perfect place to grab a latte, browse records or vintage finds, and people-watch. Just a block or two away, the Deschutes River winds right through town, with a riverfront path that’s ideal for walking or biking.

In summer, floaters drift through on inner tubes and kayaks, passing beneath bridges and alongside breweries.

Drake Park is the crown jewel of the riverfront—picnic here, catch live music, or just watch the sunset over the water. It’s laid-back Central Oregon at its finest.

READ MORE: Bend River Float: How to Float the Deschutes River Guide

15. Relax at Sunriver Resort Town

About 20 minutes south of Bend, Sunriver is a sprawling, all-seasons resort community nestled in pine forests with the Deschutes River running through it.

It’s ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a full-service base to play outside.

There’s kayaking, biking, horseback riding, and four golf courses in the summer, plus snowshoeing, ice skating, and skiing nearby in the winter.

Don’t miss SHARC—the resort’s aquatic center—and the Oregon Observatory for nighttime stargazing. It’s laid-back, scenic, and packed with things to do year-round.

READ MORE: 7 Adventurous Things to Do in Sunriver, Oregon

16. Umpqua National Forest & Chasing Waterfalls

Yes, it’s a bit south, but this lush section of Oregon deserves a spot.

Toketee Falls pours through dramatic rock formations into a perfect blue pool, Watson Falls is one of the tallest in the state, and Umpqua Hot Springs is a set of terraced tubs with a killer view.

Bring your swimsuit and some patience—it can get busy—but it’s worth the trip. Great camping nearby, too.

READ MORE: Guide to Umpqua National Forest: Waterfall Hikes & Hot Springs

17. Spend a Day at Crater Lake National Park

It’s a bit of a stretch to call it Central Oregon, but let’s not split hairs—it’s central-south and a must-see. The lake is massive, deep, and blue beyond belief.

Drive the rim, hike Garfield Peak for the best views, or walk down the Cleetwood Cove trail to take the boat out to Wizard Island. Snow can linger into summer, so check conditions.

This is Oregon’s only national park and a crown jewel for good reason.

READ MORE:
Things To Do at Crater Lake National Park
9 Best Crater Lake Hikes You’ve Got to Take On!

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Final Thoughts

Central Oregon has it all—desert solitude, snowy volcanoes, alpine lakes, lava fields, hot springs, waterfalls, and more breweries than you could possibly try in one trip (but hey, good luck).

Bend might be the hub, but you haven’t really experienced the region until you’ve ventured beyond it. So grab your hiking shoes, load up the cooler, and get out there. The high desert is calling.

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