Established: Dec. 13, 1916

Elev. at Bend: 3,628'

Area: 3,055 sq. mi.

Average Temp.: January 30.5° July 65.5°

Assessed Value: $28,858,394,563

Real Market Value: $57,139,398,118

(includes the value of non-taxed properties)

Annual Precipitation: 12"

Economy: Tourism, retail trade, forest products, recreational equipment, aviation, software and high technology

French-Canadian fur trappers of the Hudson’s Bay Company gave the name Riviere des Chutes (River of the Falls) to the Deschutes River, from which Deschutes County took its name. In 1916, Deschutes County was created from a part of Crook County.

Deschutes County, outdoor recreation capital of Oregon, with snow-capped peaks dominating the skyline to the west and the wide-open high desert extending to the east, captivates locals and visitors alike. 

Deschutes County has experienced rapid growth largely due to its climate and year-round recreation activities. Central Oregon offers downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, fishing, hunting, hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting and golf, among many other opportunities. Deschutes County is the host of diverse annual events, including the Cascade Festival of Music, the Art Hop, Cascade Children’s Festival, Pole Pedal Paddle, Sisters Rodeo, Sunriver Sunfest and the Cascade Cycling Classic.