07/16/2026
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🎉Today’s County Spotlight: Lake County!
Established in 1874, Lake County is located in the "Oregon Outback" on the northwestern edge of the Great Basin. With a large portion of its land managed by federal and state agencies, the county’s economy is primarily based on lumber, agriculture, cattle ranching, and government services.
Lake County features numerous unique geological formations and historical landmarks. Explore the ancient geological formations of the Crack-in-the-Ground, walk through the Lost Forest, or experience the wildlife-rich Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, where you can spot pronghorn, sage grouse, and bighorn sheep. The area is also a premier destination for rockhounding — notably for the Oregon sunstone — and outdoor activities ranging from soaking in Hunter’s Hot Springs to hang gliding and hiking the sand dunes in Christmas Valley.
that Lake County is home to the largest certified dark sky sanctuary in the world? Designated in 2024, the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary offers an excellent location for stargazing due to its minimal light pollution.
What’s your favorite spot in Lake County?
Photo by: Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives
