Big Summit Prairie Field Trip

Trip Leader: Jennifer Curtis

This trip is perfect for anyone who is unable to traverse difficult terrain or has difficulty walking longer distances. We will drive between plant sites, park, and explore! 

Big Summit Prairie (BSP) occupies several thousand acres of the middle portion of the Ochoco Mountains, in Central Oregon. The Prairie is largely privately owned, but most of the perimeter is National Forest and easily accessible by public roads. Driving around the prairie, with periodic stops, is the most popular way of viewing the area’s wildflowers (fs.usda.gov). 

BSP is home to the endemic Peck’s mariposa lily, and is the breeding ground for neo-tropical birds. You may also see big game such as elk, mule deer, and pronghorn antelope. (fs.usda.gov). Trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, and a variety of butterfly species (including the monarch butterfly) are also occasionally sighted.

Meeting Location: Prineville US Forest Service Office, 3160 NE 3rd St, Prineville, OR 97754

Time: 830am - around 4pm

Transportation: We will be carpooling to Big Summit Prairie. My vehicle can accommodate three people. Come prepared to drive with a full tank of gas. There are no services between Prineville and BSP. 

Communication: Most phone carriers do not provide service between Prineville and BSP. If you need to communicate with me before the trip, please text me at 541-678-2229.

What to bring:
- Water, snacks, and lunch.
- Hat, sunscreen

- Rain jacket
- Insect repellent*

- Flower ID book

*In all of the years I’ve been visiting BSP, the mosquitoes have not been bad, and the ticks are minimal. If you desire, wear insect repellent to fend off unwanted hitchhikers. Keep in mind that every year is different. 

Suggested attire: - Hat, sun protective shirt, long light colored pants, and comfortable shoes/boots. 

Driving Directions: To get to Big Summit Prairie, take Hwy 26 East from Prineville, Oregon, approximately 18 miles and turn right onto County Rd 123. Continue another 8 miles to Ochoco Ranger Station, then just past the station, turn right at the “Y” on FS Road 42. Continue on the 42 to Big Summit Prairie.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher NPSO - HDC