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Bend Oregon... The High Desert Paradise
Bend Oregon is a high desert paradise with loads of history. We won't go into the details of the history, you can easily get that from one of the many museums in the area, they are fascinating. We'll focus on what's happening today and what you can expect when you visit the Bend area. The Unique Landscape...
As you approach the Central Oregon area, in particular Bend, you'll notice the landscape is dotted with peaks, buttes and cinder cones. About ten million years ago, the landscape was alive with numerous volcanic eruptions. It was literally fire and brimstone.
Today the fire is gone and left behind is the unique landscape that makes the Bend Oregon area an outdoor paradise with green trees, flowing rivers, pristine lakes, picturesque mountains and an abundant amount of things to do.
From Pilot Butte 4,139 feet...
On the eastern side of Bend Oregon, you can gaze to the West and see the Cascade Mountain Range that sprawls from British Columbia to California. Piercing skywards you'll see the Three Sisters Mountains, Broken Top and Mount Bachelor.
To the East you'll get a glimpse of the High Desert where the West's largest Juniper Forest reigns.
Look Northward and you'll catch a view of the Deschutes River. Now this river is one big fish hatchery, world-class fishing opportunities.
Set your eyes Southward and you'll see a vastness of pine trees until they reach the horizon.
Getting to Bend...
Getting to Bend is relatively easy year-round. We've only traveled to the Bend area by vehicle. You have a variety of options as the Bend area continues to grow. You can fly-in on a commercial flight or private plane. Go by Amtrak train, Greyhound bus or for the more adventurous bike or hike in. Nevertheless, for those who want to make it here will do so.
You have a variety of options for lodging...
From the Bed & Breakfast to the more luxury style hotel chains and for a new style of accommodations, a horse ranch or luxury resort, Bend Oregon has it all. If you want to explore the ranch style accommodations, contact the Bend Chamber, 800-905-2363.
Camping in the Bend Oregon area has it all...
You can camp with full hook-ups near town or head out next to a mountain stream at one of the many parks in the area...take your pick. We are listing some campground locations. We have not stayed at all of these campgrounds and do not recommend on over the other. We usually stay at the Thousand Trails Campground because of the many amenities. If you'd like more info about it or to check it out give them a call: 1-800-759-1000.
Campground Locations...
Bend Area...
Bend Campground 800-323-8899
Crane Prairie Resort 541-383-3939
Crown Villa RV Park 541-388-1131
Lava Lake Lodge 541-382-9443
Bend KOA Campground 800-562-0363
Tumalo State Park 800-452-5687
Twin Lakes Resort 541-593-6526
Things to do in the Bend area are countless...
You'll definitely have to check out the Cascade Lakes Highway. It's an 87-mile scenic drive in the High Desert area around Bend Oregon.
While in town visit the High Desert Museum. There's mounds of both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Kids love this one! You'll need at least a good half day for this museum. Give them a call 541-382-4754.
And if you like to see how the people lived in this area in the 1800's and early 1900's then hop on over to the County Historical Museum. Here's their number to call them, 541-389-1813.
Skiing...
You got to come here and ski at the Mount Bachelor Ski Resort, Bend Oregon. This is a Winter Paradise. The sun shines soooo much and the snow conditions are usually exceptional. It's a great place for the beginner all the way to the expert. They typically open from November to June. Give them a call 800-829-2442.
There's more to Bend Oregon than...A River Runs Through It...
Come any time, year round and enjoy all that Bend Oregon has to offer. Bring the whole family, you'll be glad you did. Craig Dahl - Senior Editor Return to Northwest Travel Tips

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