Prineville was established in 1870—and was initially called just “Prine”—making it the oldest modern city in Central Oregon. It’s easy to see what the first emigrants saw in the land, which sits just north of the Crooked River in the Central Oregon high desert. Basalt river canyons lead to some of the region’s best stargazing, for instance, while modern attractions encompass a charming downtown core and an expansive museum.
Today, Old West-inspired flair makes the city of Prineville an idyllic getaway steeped in history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Here are a few highlights
Discover Why Prineville Is the Rockhound Capital
Millions of years of natural history show up in petrified wood, obsidian, lava flows, and rugged canyons around our region—all of which makes rockhounding a top draw for history buffs and amateur geologists. Given the city’s close proximity to those diverse landscapes, the outdoor activity has become one of the most popular things to do in Prineville, Oregon. Check out our guide to rockhounding in Central Oregon for the skinny on how to get started, what to look for, and staying safe.
Spend the Day at Prineville Reservoir
Looking for things to do in Prineville with kids? Head south from town for a day at Prineville Reservoir, a sprawling state park with activities for the whole family. Cast a line all year long in the 3,000-acre lake; splash around in a roped-off swimming area in summer; launch your boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard from one of the boat ramps; and keep an eye out for elk and other wildlife from trails that follow the lakeshore. Learn all about the park’s attractions with your ultimate guide to Prineville Reservoir.
Stargaze at Prineville Reservoir State Park – Oregon’s First International Dark Sky Park
Extend your visit to the park with some of Central Oregon’s best stargazing—another one of the best-loved things to do in Prineville with kids.
In 2021, Prineville Reservoir State Park was named Oregon’s first International Dark Sky Park by the nonprofit DarkSky International. The honor recognized the park’s commitment to decreasing light pollution, which preserves the night skies for all manner of wildlife; today, you can see planets, shooting stars, and even the Milky Way arcing overhead. Be sure to print and fill out a Stargazing Permit before visiting, and check out dark sky resources in Central Oregon for more about our pristine stargazing.
Take in the Views Along the Crooked River
You mostly follow the Crooked River on your way to Prineville Reservoir, so why not stop and admire the views along the way? The rocky river canyon is home to numerous species of bird, including several types of raptor, and is awash in hiking trails (like the trek to Chimney Rock), campgrounds, and other outdoor attractions. The channel’s cool, shallow waters also make it an ideal destination for anglers; learn more about fishing in Central Oregon. If you’re on two wheels, see why a trip along the Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway is one of the best things to do near Prineville, Oregon.
Step Into Local History at the A.R. Bowman Museum
Without a doubt, one of the most essential things to do in Prineville, Oregon, is to visit the outstanding A.R. Bowman Museum. Since 1971, the museum’s mission has been to preserve, share, and celebrate the history of Prineville, Crook County, and Central Oregon—with special nods to the area’s past as a onetime logging hub, its long-running ranching communities, and more. It tells those stories through immersive exhibits, captivating interpretive panels alongside engrossing photography, old-school artifacts, and curated displays.
Explore Downtown Prineville Shops, Dining, and Breweries
See Central Oregon’s dramatic landscapes from a new perspective with a hot air balloon ride via Big Sky Balloon Co. After launching near Redmond, you’ll see the jagged spires of Smith Rock to the east, iconic Cascade peaks to the west, raptors circling below, and other incredible sights. Flights are offered year round, but Big Sky’s prime season is between May and October—when you’ll have the best chance at bluebird skies; try booking your trip at least two weeks in advance, especially if angling for a weekend trip, for the most availability.
Stay Longer with Camping and Reservoir-Area Lodging
One day isn’t enough to enjoy all Prineville has to offer, so extend your visit with a camping trip, vacation rental, or a variety of other overnight stays. If you’re bringing your RV or are packing along a tent, choose among two campgrounds—one of which is open year-round—at Prineville Reservoir State Park. For more amenities, vacation rentals and cabins in Central Oregon are both popular options; Desert Sage Rentals, in particular, hosts a few properties around Prineville and the reservoir that pair chic amenities with sweeping views. Get inspired with other ideas for overnight stays with our guide to lodging in Central Oregon.
Plan Your Visit Today
Ready to check out all the fun things to do in Prineville, Oregon? Start planning your visit today by browsing our Prineville calendar of events to see what’s happening soon. From birding walks and wildflower hikes to golf tournaments and long-running rodeos, there are always fun things to do near Prineville, Oregon.
