Wildlife
In between the two varied landscapes that surround Bend, Oregon and even on those landscapes, you will find a diverse display of nature and wildlife. From the lonely land of rim rock and sagebrush to the east to the Cascade Mountains to the west, there are a multitude of plant and animal species that call this area their home.
To the east of Bend, Oregon, your eyes will see large expanses of lava rock, huge areas covered by sagebrush, a few isolated ranches and large juniper forests. In this environment wildlife including various birds, soar high in the sky and pronghorn antelope roam. To the west, the land is home to Ponderosa Pines, meandering streams, and rushing rivers. Deer, elk, beavers and other animals make their home in the high mountains and the lower valleys.
Within the three-county area that composes Central Oregon, you will find two national forests, six wilderness areas, a national grassland, a national monument, an internationally renowned rock-climbing area and seven wild and scenic rivers. Add to this impressive list, even more places less known and you will have so many scenic and wild areas, that it is almost impossible to visit them all.
For anyone who loves clean air, awesome views, nature, wildlife, hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, camping, skiing or any type of outdoor activity, the area in and around Bend, Oregon is the place to be.