Outback Scenic Byway begins near La Pine in central Oregon. It follows OR 31 and US 395 south to New Pine Creek. A small segment follows CR 5-10 to Fort Rock. The roads are two-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles. Outback Scenic Byway is 165 miles long and remains open year-round.
Oregon’s Outback Scenic Byway travels through a diverse landscape, from lush green forests to arid desert. A portion of the byway travels through the 1.2 million acre Fremont National Forest where visitors will find abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Forest offices are located in Silver Lake, Paisley, and Lakeview; information and maps are available. Wildlife observers will want to check out the Summer Lake State Wildlife Area. The 18,000-acre area is home to over 250 species of birds. Bald eagles, peregrine falcon, western snowy plovers, greater sand hill cranes, and trumpeter swans can be seen using the habitat.
Goose Lake State Park contains the byway’s only public campground. It is south of Lakeview and has 48 campsites with electric and water hookups. The sites can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long. Among the facilities are restrooms, a dump station, drinking water, and showers. The park is usually open April to October. Fremont National Forest contains numerous public campgrounds but none are located directly on the byway.