Winter is still a great time to spot some of Central Oregon's native bird species! It's also perfect for brushing up on some Central Oregon history!

Camp Polk Meadow Preserve is open year-round, as long as the roads are safe to travel. Lace up your boots, grab your binoculars, and explore this protected land when other visitors are more likely to be at home. 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). Winter is great for finding a quiet moment to watch wildlife! We have many species that live here year-round. 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!