It’s peak season for catching the fall bird migrations, and also a great time to brush up on some Central Oregon history!

While volunteer-led Land Trust walks and hikes are winding down, you can lace up your shoes, grab your binoculars, and explore this protected land on your own. Find driving directions and more detailed Preserve information.

Here are some ideas to get you outside and into the natural beauty of Camp Polk Preserve:

Camp Polk Meadow is home to deer, cougar, otters, elk and many species of birds (~180 species observed). Fall is a great time to take a quiet moment and watch wildlife! We have many species that live here year-round, and many more just passing through on their fall migration route! See the Preserve's bird list for help identifying birds that have been observed here in the past.

Camp Polk Meadow has also played a key role in Central Oregon’s history for more than 150 years, and as a historical crossroads for people for thousands of years! First the meadow supplied plentiful food and water for generations of Native American tribes. Then, it became a hub when explorers, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and settlers moved West to build the community we see today. Camp Polk was an early stop along the Santiam Wagon Road, and home to the area’s first post office. You can still see the support beams of the Hindman Barn, one of the oldest structures in Deschutes County, at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve today!

Learn more about Camp Polk Meadow Preserve!