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Prineville

Prineville, Oregon, United States

Prineville, nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, historical significance, and small-town charm. Located in Crook County, Prineville is surrounded by…

#Small town#Rural#Desert landscape#Outdoor activities#Historic buildings
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Prineville.

Top Hotels in Prineville

Top Flights to Prineville

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Prineville.

Tours

Ochoco Wayside State Park

A small scenic park offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Bowman Museum

Museum showcasing the local history of Crook County.

Painted Hills

Part of the John Day Fossil Beds, known for its colorful landscapes.

Crooked River Scenic Drive

Enjoy a drive along the Crooked River with breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping

Prineville Farmers Market

A local market featuring fresh produce and handmade goods.

Downtown Prineville Antiques

A treasure trove of antique shops offering unique finds.

Outdoor

Prineville Reservoir State Park

A popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Ochoco National Forest Hiking

Explore miles of hiking trails in the beautiful Ochoco National Forest.

Wildlife Safari

An adventure to see diverse wildlife native to Oregon.

Prineville Golf Club

A picturesque golf course in Central Oregon.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Prineville.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Not Available
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Prineville
Jan
snow
6°-4°
Feb
snow
9°-3°
Mar
cloud
13°-1°
Apr
rain
17°1°
May
sun
22°5°
Jun
sun
27°9°
Jul
hot
32°11°
Aug
hot
31°10°
Sep
sun
26°6°
Oct
clear
18°1°
Nov
cloud
10°-2°
Dec
snow
5°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Prineville.

What people love

Prineville, located in Oregon, United States, offers several advantages for travelers:

  1. Outdoor Recreation: Prineville is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Ochoco National Forest, Prineville Reservoir State Park, and the Crooked River. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and camping in these beautiful outdoor spaces.

  2. Smith Rock State Park: Located just a short drive from Prineville, Smith Rock State Park is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park's iconic rock formations and scenic views make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

  3. Historic Downtown: Prineville's historic downtown area is home to charming shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can stroll along the streets, admire the architecture, and learn about the town's history.

  4. Local Events and Festivals: Prineville hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Crooked River Roundup Rodeo, the Crooked River Artisan Fair, and the Prineville Car Show. These events showcase the town's culture, heritage, and community spirit.

  5. Warm Summers and Mild Winters: Prineville enjoys a relatively mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters. This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round, whether you're exploring the great outdoors or simply enjoying the town's laid-back atmosphere.

Overall, Prineville offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, historic charm, and community events that make it a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Central Oregon.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Prineville, Oregon, include:

  1. Limited transportation options: Prineville is a relatively small town, so public transportation options may be limited. Renting a car may be necessary for exploring the surrounding area.

  2. Limited dining and entertainment options: While Prineville has some local restaurants and attractions, the options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a variety of dining and entertainment options may find the town lacking in choices.

  3. Weather extremes: Prineville experiences a high desert climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for temperature extremes depending on the time of year they visit.

  4. Limited shopping opportunities: Prineville may not have the same variety of shopping options as larger cities, so visitors looking for extensive shopping opportunities may be disappointed.

  5. Remote location: Prineville is located in a more remote area of Oregon, so travelers should be prepared for longer travel times to reach other destinations or services.

Overall, while Prineville offers a unique small-town experience and access to outdoor activities, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

Prineville, located in Central Oregon, is the county seat of Crook County and has a rich history dating back to its founding in the late 19th century.

Founding and Early History:

Prineville was established in 1877 and named after Barney Prine, one of the area’s first settlers. Prine operated a blacksmith shop and a small store, which became the social and commercial hub for the early settlers in the region. In 1880, the town was officially incorporated.

Economic Development:

In its early years, Prineville's economy was largely based on agriculture, livestock, and timber. The town became a focal point for the surrounding ranching community. The arrival of the Oregon Trunk Railway in 1911, and later the establishment of the City of Prineville Railway in 1917, further bolstered its economic growth by improving transportation for goods and resources.

Significant Events:

  • City of Prineville Railway: Established in 1917, it is one of the oldest municipally-owned railroads in the United States. The railway was a response to being bypassed by major rail lines and facilitated the transport of timber and other goods.

  • Timber Industry: In the mid-20th century, the timber industry became a significant part of Prineville’s economy. Several mills operated in the area, making it a major timber town in Oregon.

  • Data Centers: In the 21st century, Prineville has transformed into a technology hub with the establishment of data centers by major companies like Facebook and Apple. These facilities have brought new economic opportunities and jobs to the region.

Historical Figures:

  • Barney Prine: As the town’s namesake, Barney Prine was instrumental in its early development, providing essential services and acting as a central figure in the community.

  • Les Schwab: A significant figure in Prineville’s more recent history is Les Schwab, who founded the Les Schwab Tire Centers in the town in 1952. The company grew into one of the largest tire retailers in the western United States.

Important Landmarks:

  • Crook County Courthouse: Built in 1909, this historic courthouse is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Prineville. It is noted for its architectural design and serves as a reminder of the town’s legal and civic history.

  • A.R. Bowman Memorial Museum: Housed in a historic bank building, the museum preserves and exhibits the history of Prineville and Crook County, featuring artifacts and stories from the area’s past.

  • Ochoco National Forest: Surrounding Prineville, this national forest offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities of Central Oregon, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Throughout its history, Prineville has evolved from a frontier town to a modern community, balancing its rich heritage with contemporary economic developments. This transformation highlights the town's ability to adapt and thrive amid changing economic landscapes.