Ready to for your next adventure? You’ve got options. Whether you’re planning an afternoon outside or a backcountry weekend, this list is the jumping off point for outdoor recreation in the high desert.
Enjoy the evening stars or the view of Steens Mountain while soaking in the...
The carvings on the trees in this aspen grove are called arborglyphs. Most of...
Dominic is a lifelong bird hunter. He has worked at several high end guiding...
The Big Indian Gorge Trail is a spectacular hiking destination located in the Steens...
BIGS outfitter, based out of Redmond in Central Oregon, is owned and operated by...
This 3.8 mile trail provides direct access to the Blitzen River's fishing waters. This...
This 42-mile self-guided Blitzen Valley Auto Tour Route showcases the scenic Blitzen Valley, from...
One of eastern Oregon's most popular fishing spots. The expansive valley where Chickahominy Reservoir...
Delintment Lake is located 45 miles northwest of Hines in the Ochoco National Forest....
Diamond Craters, an Outstanding Natural Area of 17,000 acres (23 square miles), has some...
The Donner and Blitzen is commonly referred to as the Blitzen. The river rises...
Rising 9,700 feet above sea level, Steens Mountain is the highest peak in the...
Fish Lake is a result of water ponded behind a dam of earth and...
Frenchglen Hotel is a small slice of peace and quiet in southeastern Oregon at...
Spend an amazing weekend witnessing the spectacular spring migration in the Harney Basin of...
Experience the excitement of the Harney County Ranch Rodeo in Burns, Oregon! This unique...
Come Have Summer Fun at Anderson Park! Join us at Anderson Park for a...
The Idlewild Loop Trail in Burns, Oregon offers a perfect outdoor escape for families...
The campground is situated along Highway 395 north of Burns, Oregon. In the summer,...
Joaquin Miller Campground is located 19 miles north of Burns, Oregon on US Highway...
There is a lot to see and do in Harney County! Scroll back up to the map and chart your next high desert adventure.
Top activities in Harney include hiking and wildlife watching at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, soaking in natural hot springs, exploring Steens Mountain by car or trail, and camping under star-filled skies. Birdwatching, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding are favorite pastimes among visitors and locals. For those seeking solitude, scenic drives, photography, and backcountry adventures offer a chance to connect with the land and its rugged beauty. Can’t decide what to do first? Our Top 6 Harney Hits can help you plan your next adventure.
Harney County offers some of Oregon’s most scenic and remote hiking and backpacking opportunities. Steens Mountain has a variety of trails ranging from short overlooks to challenging backcountry routes. The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge provides accessible walking trails ideal for birdwatching and photography, while the Diamond Craters area offers unique geological hikes through volcanic landscapes. Just remember: the high desert wilderness offers rugged solitude that often comes with limited services and variable conditions. Always check trail conditions, weather, and fire restrictions before heading out. First time in Harney County? Check out our tips for travel.
The Harney County ecosystem is both rugged and fragile. Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect private ranchlands and wildlife habitats, and be prepared with plenty of water, layers, and fuel. By traveling thoughtfully, you’ll help keep Harney’s wild spaces healthy for future visitors and the communities who call this place home. Our Explore Responsibly page can tell you more about how to tread lightly in the high desert.
