Table Of Content
La Pine, Oregon: The Best & Fun Things To Do (Besides Counting Pine Trees)
Welcome to La Pine, Oregon! If you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation, you’ve come to the right place. La Pine is a charming city located in Central Oregon that offers a variety of activities for all ages. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking to relax, La Pine has something for everyone.
If you love the great outdoors, La Pine is the perfect destination for you. With its stunning natural scenery, you can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the Deschutes National Forest, or explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Don’t forget to check out the crystal-clear waters of East Lake or go fishing at Wickiup Reservoir. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go rafting or kayaking on the Deschutes River.
Looking for some seasonal activities? La Pine has plenty to offer. In the winter, you can hit the slopes at Mt. Bachelor or go snowmobiling in the backcountry. In the summer, you can attend the La Pine Rodeo, one of the oldest rodeos in Oregon, or check out the La Pine Frontier Days, a celebration of the city’s history and culture. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something fun to do in La Pine.
Key Takeaways
- La Pine, Oregon is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- There are plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy in La Pine.
- La Pine offers a variety of fun activities for all ages.
The Great Outdoors
When it comes to outdoor activities and natural beauty, La Pine, Oregon has it all. From state parks to national monuments, there’s no shortage of places to explore and things to do. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
La Pine State Park
Located just south of the town of La Pine, this state park is a popular destination for camping, fishing, and hiking. With over 80 full-hookup sites and electrical sites, it’s a great place to set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors. Take a stroll along the Deschutes River or cast a line for brown trout or kokanee.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Explore the volcanic wonders of the Newberry Crater at this national monument. From lava tubes to cinder cones, there’s plenty to see and learn about. Take a hike to the top of Big Red and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Deschutes National Forest
Spanning over 1.6 million acres, the Deschutes National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as opportunities for camping and fishing, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out the stunning fall foliage and spring wildflowers.
East Lake
Nestled in the heart of the Cascades, East Lake is a popular spot for fishing and camping. With crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it’s easy to see why. Cast a line for rainbow or brown trout or take a dip in the cool waters.
Wickiup Reservoir
If you’re looking for a great spot for boating and fishing, look no further than Wickiup Reservoir. With over 10 miles of shoreline and plenty of opportunities to catch big brown trout, it’s a popular spot for anglers. Take a scenic drive around the reservoir or set up camp and enjoy the views.
Lava River Cave
Explore the underground wonders of the Lava River Cave. This lava tube is over a mile long and offers a unique look at the geological history of the area. Be sure to bring a jacket, as the cave stays a cool 42 degrees year-round.
Crater Lake
Take a day trip to the stunning Crater Lake, located just a few hours from La Pine. This deep blue lake is the deepest in the United States and is surrounded by stunning cliffs and forests. Take a hike along the rim or take a boat tour to Wizard Island.
Newberry Crater
Explore the volcanic history of the area at the Newberry Crater. This caldera is over 17 square miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a hike to the top of Paulina Peak or explore the nearby hot springs.
Deschutes River
The Deschutes River is a popular spot for fishing and whitewater rafting. Cast a line for rainbow or brown trout or take a thrilling ride down the rapids. Be sure to keep an eye out for the stunning wildlife, including bald eagles and osprey.
Crane Prairie Reservoir
Located just north of La Pine, Crane Prairie Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Cast a line for rainbow or brown trout or take a scenic boat ride around the lake. With stunning views of the surrounding Ponderosa pine forests, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
So, get out there and explore the great outdoors of La Pine, Oregon. Whether you’re looking for fishing, hiking, or just a scenic drive, there’s something for everyone.
Seasonal Activities
Summer Fun
In the summer, La Pine turns into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. With its warm weather, you can enjoy a variety of activities that will keep you entertained for hours. Here are some of the best summer activities to do in La Pine:
Mountain Biking:
Grab your bike and hit the trails at the Deschutes National Forest. With over 300 miles of trails, you’re sure to find a route that suits your skill level. From easy beginner trails to challenging expert routes, there’s something for everyone.
Fishing:
Take advantage of the warm weather and cast your line in one of La Pine’s many lakes and rivers. The Deschutes River is known for its excellent trout fishing, while East Lake is home to trophy-sized brown trout.
Hiking:
Explore the beautiful landscapes of La Pine on foot. The area has a variety of hiking trails that range from easy nature walks to challenging summit hikes. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
Winter Wonderland
When winter arrives, La Pine transforms into a winter wonderland. With snow-covered mountains and a variety of winter activities, you’re sure to have a blast. Here are some of the best winter activities to do in La Pine:
Skiing and Snowboarding:
Hit the slopes at Mt. Bachelor, one of the largest ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest. With over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain and 101 runs, there’s something for everyone, from beginners to experts.
Snowshoeing:
trap on some snowshoes and explore the winter wonderland of La Pine. The Deschutes National Forest has a variety of snowshoeing trails that range from easy to difficult.
Sledding:
Grab your sled and head to the La Pine State Park for some old-fashioned fun. The park has a designated sledding hill that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
No matter what season it is, La Pine has something to offer. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, you’re sure to find something that will keep you entertained.
Food and Nightlife
Local Restaurants
La Pine may be a small town, but it has some big flavor when it comes to food. You’ll find a variety of local restaurants that offer everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Here are a few of our favorites:
Frontier Cafe:
This cozy cafe serves up hearty breakfasts and lunches that will leave you feeling satisfied all day long. Try their famous biscuits and gravy or the chicken fried steak.
El Caporal:
Get your Mexican food fix at El Caporal, where the portions are big and the flavors are bold. Don’t miss their delicious margaritas!
Pizza Studio:
Create your own pizza masterpiece at Pizza Studio, where you can choose from a variety of crusts, sauces, and toppings. They also offer salads and sides if you’re looking for something lighter.
Nightlife in La Pine
When the sun sets in La Pine, the fun doesn’t stop. While the town may not have a bustling nightlife scene, there are still a few places to grab a drink and unwind. Here are some spots to check out:
The Haul:
This casual bar and grill is a local favorite for its friendly atmosphere and great food. They have a variety of beers on tap and often host live music on the weekends.
Southside Pub:
If you’re looking for a dive bar with character, Southside Pub is the place to be. They have a pool table, jukebox, and plenty of drink specials to keep you entertained all night long.
No matter where you choose to eat or drink in La Pine, you’re sure to have a good time. Just remember to pace yourself and drink plenty of water!
Where to Stay
When it comes to staying in La Pine, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin or a luxurious hotel, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best lodging options in La Pine:
Lodging Options
Deluxe Cabins
If you’re looking for a unique and comfortable place to stay, then deluxe cabins are the way to go. These cabins come fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a kitchen, bathroom, and comfortable beds. Plus, they’re located in some of the most beautiful areas of La Pine, so you can enjoy the scenery while you relax.
Hotels
If you’re looking for a more traditional lodging option, then hotels are the way to go. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in La Pine, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious ones. Many hotels offer amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers, so you can stay active while you’re away from home.
Camping
For those who love the great outdoors, camping is a great option. La Pine has plenty of camping options to choose from, including RV parks and tent camping sites. Many camping sites are located near hiking trails and other outdoor activities, so you can enjoy all that La Pine has to offer.
No matter what type of lodging you choose, you’re sure to have a great time in La Pine. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
La Pine Tours
Looking for a fun way to explore La Pine? Look no further than the many tours and experiences available in this charming town. Whether you want to kayak down the Deschutes River or explore the stunning Cascade Mountains, La Pine has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a unique way to see the sights, consider taking a guided tour. La Pine is home to a number of tour companies that offer everything from wine tastings to scenic helicopter rides. So why not let someone else do the driving while you sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery?
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, consider renting a kayak and paddling down the Deschutes River. This scenic waterway offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, beavers, and bald eagles. Just be sure to bring a waterproof camera so you can capture all the amazing sights!
Of course, no trip to La Pine would be complete without a visit to the Cascade Mountains. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of trails to choose from. So why not pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring this stunning natural wonder?
No matter what your interests, La Pine has something for everyone. So why not book a tour or experience today and start exploring all this charming town has to offer?
Visitor Information
Welcome to La Pine, Oregon, where the sun shines bright and the people are even brighter! Before you start your epic adventures in this beautiful town, let’s get you all the visitor information you need.
First things first, if you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for all things La Pine, head to the visitor center located at 51425 Highway 97. The friendly staff there will be more than happy to help you plan your itinerary, answer any questions you may have, and even share their favorite local spots with you.
Now, let’s talk about reviews. You know what they say, opinions are like armpits, everyone has them and some of them stink. But don’t worry, we’ve sifted through the reviews so you don’t have to. Here are some of the most common things visitors have said about La Pine:
- “The scenery is breathtaking”
- “So much to do, so little time”
- “The people are friendly and welcoming”
- “A hidden gem in Oregon”
- “I can’t wait to come back”
So there you have it, folks. La Pine is a must-visit destination filled with natural beauty, fun activities, and friendly locals. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
Nearby Attractions
If you’re looking for more things to do in the area, there are a few nearby attractions that are worth checking out. Here are two of the best:
Sunriver
Just a short drive from La Pine, Sunriver is a resort community that offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you want to go skiing, hiking, or just relax by the pool, there’s something for everyone here. Some of the top things to do in Sunriver include:
Mt. Bachelor –
This nearby ski resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region. With over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, there’s plenty of room for everyone.
Sunriver Nature Center –
This educational center is a great place to learn about the high desert ecosystem and the animals that call it home. With interactive exhibits and live animal displays, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Sunriver Stables –
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the area, why not go horseback riding? Sunriver Stables offers guided trail rides through the nearby forests and meadows.
Bend
Located just a short drive north of La Pine, Bend is a bustling city that’s known for its outdoor activities and vibrant downtown. Here are a few of the top things to do in Bend:
Deschutes River Trail –
This scenic trail runs along the Deschutes River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you want to go for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there’s a trail for you here.
Old Mill District –
This shopping and entertainment district is located along the river and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Whether you want to catch a movie, go bowling, or just grab a bite to eat, there’s something for everyone here.
High Desert Museum –
This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the high desert region. With exhibits on everything from Native American history to mining and logging, it’s a great place to learn about the area’s past and present.
No matter what you’re interested in, there’s plenty to see and do in the La Pine area. So why not plan a trip today and see for yourself?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that the only thing to do in La Pine is visit the State Park?
No, it’s not true! While La Pine State Park is definitely a must-visit attraction, there are plenty of other fun things to do in the area. You can go hiking, fishing, or boating on one of the many nearby lakes. You can also visit the Newberry National Volcanic Monument to explore the area’s unique geology. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go skydiving or take a scenic flight over the Cascade Mountains.
Are there any restaurants in La Pine that serve food other than pine cones?
Yes, there are plenty of great restaurants in La Pine that serve delicious food! Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, burgers, or Mexican cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options here. Some local favorites include Gordy’s Truck Stop, Fiorella’s Jack Stack BBQ, and La Pine Frontier Days. And if you’re looking for something sweet, be sure to stop by the La Pine Donut House for some of the best donuts in town.
Is it possible to teleport from La Pine to Bend?
As much as we’d love to say yes, unfortunately, teleportation is not yet a viable mode of transportation. However, the good news is that La Pine is only a short drive away from Bend, so you can easily visit this popular destination for shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures. And if you’re looking for a unique way to travel, you can even take a scenic train ride on the Cascade Express from Bend to the nearby town of Prineville.
Are there any houses in La Pine that are not made of pine trees?
While La Pine is surrounded by beautiful pine forests, not all of the houses here are made of pine trees! In fact, you’ll find a variety of different architectural styles and building materials in La Pine, from cozy log cabins to modern homes with all the latest amenities. So whether you’re looking for a rustic retreat or a luxurious vacation home, you’re sure to find something that fits your style and budget here in La Pine.
