In Oregon’s Harney Basin, vast wetlands form an important migration stopover along the Pacific Flyway. Against this backdrop of open desert and wide skies, the annual Harney County Migratory Bird Festival invites birders, wildlife photographers, and conservation-minded travelers to witness the spectacular spring migration. The festival returns to Burns and the greater Harney Basin on April 16-19, 2026.
Each spring, snow retreats from the mountains of southeast Oregon, filling the marshes, lakes, and rivers of the Harney Basin. Here, a vast network of wetlands spreads across the basin floor–an unexpected oasis in the midst of the high desert.
With the water comes birds. Tens of thousands of them move through this stretch of Southeast Oregon on their long journey north. Since 1983, their arrival has been marked with the annual Harney County Migratory Bird Festival.
Along the Pacific Flyway
The Pacific Flyway, one of North America’s major north-south migration routes, stretches from wintering grounds in Mexico and the southern U.S. to nesting habitats in Alaska and Canada. Along this bird highway sits the Harney Basin–a unique wetland sanctuary within Oregon’s High Desert.
The basin is a crucial migration stopover, offering rest and food for birds during their journey. Spring migration brings over 300 species–from sandhill cranes and tundra swans to pintails and raptors. Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, located within the basin, is one of the most renowned birding destinations in the American West, offering visitors a front-row seat to the wonders of migration.
The Harney County Migratory Bird Festival
Harney County’s Migratory Bird Festival takes shape around this remarkable natural phenomenon. Over four days, the Festival brings together birdwatching excursions, expert-led workshops, conservation-based education, and community gatherings. Experienced birders and festival newcomers alike will find opportunities to experience spring migration and learn about the landscape that supports it.
During the festival, field tours explore the region’s wetlands, rivers, and open desert–key habitats for migratory birds. Workshops, programs, and social events take place throughout the weekend, along with an art show featuring local and regional artists whose work is inspired by Harney County.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re attending the festival, prepare for a warm Harney County welcome and an unforgettable experience. Here are some guidelines to get you started.
Stay
Burns offers a range of lodging options, including locally-owned hotels, Air BnBs, camping and RV sites, and cabins adjacent to natural hot springs. Birding tours often begin early, so consider staying in Burns or close to the Malheur Wildlife Refuge.
Extend Your Trip
Many visitors extend their stay in Harney County beyond the festival weekend. Add a few extra days to your trip and enjoy scenic desert drives, take a soak in natural hot springs, or set off on a hike. Our curated itineraries offer more ideas for where to stay, dine, and explore in Harney County.
Tread Lightly
The Harney Basin’s wetlands and open spaces are more than scenic—they are an active habitat for birds in the middle of a long migration. Stay on designated roads and trails, give wildlife plenty of space, and leave each site as you found it. Thoughtful travel helps ensure this landscape remains healthy for the wildlife that depend on it.
Rooted in Community and Conservation
The health of the Harney Basin depends on our community stewards–conservation groups, ranching families, land management agencies, and local volunteer groups–working together to preserve this unique ecological environment.
The Harney County Migratory Bird Festival is an extension of that shared commitment, bringing people together to celebrate the return of spring migration and care for the landscape that sustains it.
