Blake Walsh

18 Best Things to Do in Klamath Falls, OR

  • Published 2023/04/11

Southern Oregon is known for its endless adventure activities, with Klamath Falls offering some of the very best.

The abundance of rivers within the region provides tourists with an excellent location for rafting, boating, and canoeing.

The presence of state parks is also one of Klamath Falls’s most famous attributes amongst visitors.

When it comes to scenic beauty, very few places compare.

Here are the best things to do in Klamath Falls, Oregon:

Stop by Moore Park on Your First Day

Moore Park

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Before you go over to appreciate the beauty of the central Upper Klamath Lake, we’d recommend you make a quick stop by Moore Park.

It is the largest park in the vicinity, spread across 450 acres.

Picnic area at Moore Park

Bob Galindo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tourists come to walk and hike through the variety of lush forest trails offering views of the endless array of junipers and pines.

Spring is the best time to visit Moore Park as this specific season often offers visitors the chance to see the great bald eagle.

Additionally, many local events worth checking out are held inside the park.

Tree at Moore Park

Bobjgalindo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Watch the Rare Birds at the Link River Trail

White Pelicans at Link River Trail

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The Link River Trail is one of the beauties here in Klamath Falls, where you can enjoy nature to its fullest.

Beside the trail, you’ll find some of the Link River’s best views.

You can walk along the gravel path or even enjoy biking on a warm day.

Initially, this trail was a service road.

It connected the Upper Klamath Lake to the Klamath River, but now it is more a tourist attraction that attracts many people.

The main attraction here is the birds; due to the trail’s proximity to the water, rare birds are often spotted nearby.

Enjoy the Beauty of Klamath Lake

Klamath Lake

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Klamath Lake has to be Klamath Falls’ main attraction.

The Upper Klamath Lake is a new body larger than any other in this region.

Covering an area of almost 91,000 acres, the lakes attract anyone looking for a bit of adventure.

The lake covers a shore of almost 98 miles.

A bench near Klamath Lake

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However, the lake is the best if you are going to visit on a summer afternoon.

This is the perfect place to spend the day relaxing and taking in some of the breathtaking views of the lake.

Many visit this spot for picnics while others come with the hope to spot some of the animals local to the region.

Birds flying over Klamath Lake

Dee Browning / Shutterstock.com

Rejuvenate at Lake of the Woods Resort

As you probably can tell, Klamath Falls is one of nature’s gifts.

The area offers scenic beauty in many of its locations.

Lake of the Woods Resort is no exception, providing visitors with the perfect camping destination.

Many come here to spend a night under the stars and roast marshmallows.

With a vast campground, Lake of the Woods Resort offers several cabins, providing guests with complete free reign over their camping trip.

The ideal time to come is during the summer months when many activities such as fishing, boating, canoeing, and hiking are available.

However, even during the winter, there are still opportunities to partake in ice fishing.

Lake of the Woods Resort truly is one of the best locations for lovers of camping.

Go Biking Along the OC and E Woods Line State Trail

For those who love to be active, the OC and E Woods Line State Trail is the perfect choice to opt for.

The trail is situated within the state park and is one of the largest and most popular trails within the area.

Tourists flock to this attraction for long hikes and biking.

The trail spreads for over 105 miles and in recent years has been become most popular amongst bikers.

Those who visit will see a handful of bikers and hikers making their way across the trail.

Additionally, the trail provides access to many historical destinations lined up along the length.

You can learn a great deal about the area’s history and the railway from this trail.

Watch Migratory Birds at Wood River Wetland

Wood River Wetland

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Wood River Wetland is nothing but acres and acres of scenic beauty.

It is located within close proximity to Upper Klamath Falls.

If you are a bird lover, this, right here, is paradise!

If you are also into fishing, the spots have some of the best opportunities for good catches.

Yes, this region’s trout is famous, and many people choose Klamath Falls for their fishing escapades.

Lily pads on Wood River Wetland waters

Ginger Livingston Sanders / Shutterstock.com

Get some of the most breathtaking views of the Klamath Mountains.

There is also a walking trail that will lead you towards the mountains from this spot.

Go canoeing in the wetlands!

Or, you could have a chill day with a family picnic right here.

The Bureau of Land Management manages this place, and no doubt, this is one of the best-maintained places in the gorgeous city.

It’s also close to the Wood River, which all visitors love.

Snap Photos of the Link River Falls

The best place to visit to see waterfalls is Link River Falls.

The river itself is tiny, in fact, it is the seventh smallest river in the States.

However, it compensates by offering around 30 scenic waterfalls for visitors to enjoy.

The nearby town, Linkville, was named after the river.

All the waterfalls can be accessed through the Link River Trail.

The views from these waterfalls are breathtaking.

The Duwee Falls, Annie Falls, Plaikini Falls, and Vidae Falls are waterfalls that offer the most scenic surroundings.

Most of these are situated within the depths of the forest areas of the Link River.

If you want a quick stroll and to take some pictures, we recommend the Vidae Falls as it is most accessible due to being visible from the trail.

Admire the Art in Klamath Art Gallery

When going along the Link River Trail, you can see the beautiful Klamath Art Gallery.

There is something incredibly unique about this gallery as its exhibitions are constantly changing all year round.

Every month the gallery focuses on a different genre or artist, making this attraction one of the most frequently visited.

The gallery also offers classes that teach local talents how to perfect their art.

There is also a great appreciation for local work as several exhibitions showcase talents close to home.

Overall, the Klamath Art Gallery is an essential part of the Klamath art community.

It is also worth checking to see f there are any events before you visit the gallery.

Stay at Lake of the Woods Mountain Lodge and Resort

Lake of the Wood Mountain Lodge and Resort is very popular in the area as it is the prime location for an activity-filled stay.

The resort offers refuge and provides visitors with the opportunity to rent gear for the lake activities.

In terms of cuisine, the Marina Pizza Parlor is the perfect choice for a laid-back meal.

Learn About the Natives at the Favell Museum

The Favell Museum offers an essential insight into art and history.

From learning about natives to acquiring contemporary art from the West, there is much to enjoy here.

The museum houses many previous belongings of the natives that are thousands of years old, such as weapons and clothes.

Additionally, the museum also offers the chance to see belongings that were initially discovered in Alaska and South America.

The museum is mainly famous for its excellent display of paintings, including The Scouts by Charles M. Russell.

Grab Some Pizza and Beer at Mia and Pia’s Pizzeria and Brewhouse

Everyone wants some good food while they are on vacation, and the golden combination of pizza and beer is something that never gets old.

At Mia and Pia’s Pizzeria and Brewhouse, you can get some of the best pizza in the region.

The pub is family-friendly and offers a good variety on its menu, too.

The actual attraction of the establishment is, in fact, its freshly hand-made pizzas.

Other delicious options include burgers and pasta.

Complete with a scenic patio for outdoor dining and an arcade for the children inside, Mia and Pia’s is the perfect place for a laid-back evening and a few drinks.

Have a Winter Vacation at Willamette Pass Ski Resort

Peak at Willamette Pass Ski Resort

Jsayre64, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you planning to visit our holiday destination in the winter and wondering what activities and facilities are available?

Look no further than Willamette Pass Ski Resort, Klamath Falls’ leading winter destination.

This destination is also open within summer and offers hiking and many other activities.

However, for those who love to ski, this is the perfect place.

It is worth mentioning that many of the slopes are steep and therefore not always suitable for beginners.

Take a Day Trip to Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park

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Crater Lake National Park is quite close to Klamath Falls.

It is one of the prettiest places near the destination to check out.

Make it a road trip and enjoy the views along the route.

Person admiring the view of Crater Lake National Park

Kris Wiktor / Shutterstock.com

The lake is alluring with clean and deep blue waters, and the surrounding views are indeed a sight to behold.

Thousands of years ago, this was once home to the volcanic mountain named Mount Mazama.

Additionally, there is also an island inside the lake, where many go boating and take the opportunity to take some pictures amongst one of the most beautiful backdrops.

Waterfalls in Crater Lake National Park

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Try Out White Water Rafting on the Klamath River

Rushing waters of Klamath River

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Klamath Falls is all about natural beauty.

This vast expanse of scenic beauty is a visual treat.

In such a scenario, the rivers play an intense role in tourism—and you get to take part in many water-related activities.

White water rafting is one of the most popular activities to enjoy here.

There are many rivers to choose from, but the Klamath River is the most highly recommended.

The river has a lot of rapids on its course.

Many travel and adventure companies offer reasonably priced white water rafting trips that include a guide in the expedition.

Delve into the Past at Klamath County Museums

Located at 1451 Main Street, the Klamath County Museum is a public institution resting in a 1935 National Guard Armory building in Klamath Falls that preserves and showcases the history and culture of the region.

A variety of exhibits offers visitors a look into the fascinating history of this region, including a display focused on Native Americans, ranching, forestry, and the Modoc Indian War.

Gems, minerals, and rocks from around the world with samples from notable collections and various specimens from lesser-known collectors are also on display here.

The museum also displays over 100 species of native plants in their garden alongside the region’s earliest records of growth, including various specimens from the state’s noted botanists and geologists.

Aside from plants, another collection Klamath County Museums is known for is the cars exhibit boasting a collection of vintage cars dating back to 1904.

It is in this museum where you’ll also see some of the world’s oldest designs and models of shoes.

Enjoy Architecture and Natural History at the Baldwin Hotel Museum

Exterior of Baldwin Hotel Museum

User:bobjgalindo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

While the Klamath Falls area is known for its beautiful mountains and rivers, there is an exciting piece of history that very few people today are aware of.

It’s called the Baldwin Hotel Museum—it’s a museum inside a beautiful old building at 31 Main St. in Klamath Falls, featuring 40 antiques-filled rooms.

Construction began on this impressive hotel back in 1905, and at one time, it even became a big attraction on Main Street.

While big-city museums can be fun, there’s something about the Baldwin Hotel Museum that makes it stand out as a small-town gem.

Exterior of Baldwin Hotel Museum

Bobjgalindo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Among the many wonderful things about the Baldwin Hotel Museum is that it includes basement cupboards with direct access to basalt bedrock that anchors it and stays in place despite the recent earthquakes.

You’ll also find some particularly remarkable pieces, like colored transom glass that’s thicker at the bottom, which can be attributed to settling after many years of continuous movement.

If you’re a fan of architecture and natural history, you’ll be happy to know that the museum is only a couple of minutes away from the Link River Trail, making an afternoon trip very convenient for your museum visit and outdoor activities.

Catch a Show at Ross Ragland Theater

Originally opened as a traditional movie theater in the 1940s, Ross Ragland Theater is a unique arts center serving Northern California and South Central Oregon.

Ross Ragland Theater underwent a multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural renovation to accommodate dance recitals and artistic showcases.

With impeccable sightlines and premium sound, this glitzy performance space offers an entertaining and unforgettable experience brought to you by various local productions and touring performing artists.

Founded in 1989, Ross Ragland Theater has hosted many legendary musicians spanning many genres.

The theater has played home to world-renown symphonies and bands, Grammy Award winners, and repertory tours, as well as operas, dramas, and comedies put on by companies from all over the world.

Even award-winning improvisation groups have gotten up onto its stage!

Other Things to Do Nearby

Drive to Lava Beds National Monument

Name sign of Lava Beds National Monument

Geartooth Productions / Shutterstock.com

Situated on the outskirts of Oregon and California’s border, the Lava Beds National Monument is a must-see.

This national monument offers endless trails for hiking.

With various caves, this location is the perfect place for an action-filled day out.

Narrow trail in Lava Beds National Monument

Zack Frank / Shutterstock.com

The cave routes are divided into three difficulties: least, moderate, and most challenging, making the chance to explore the caves open to everyone.

For tourists who wish to plan their visit to the Lava Beds National Monument, make sure to visit their website as there is a helpful breakdown of each cave route and its level of difficulty.

A lava cave in Lava Beds National Monument

Stephen Moehle / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

It’s no secret that Klamath Falls offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities; the community has 300 days of sunny weather each year, after all!

But local attractions in town are worth checking out for anyone in need of a bit more indoor action between adventures.

Keep this list handy when planning your next trip, so you don’t miss the top spots to view local art, enjoy some locally sourced cuisine, and hear live music!

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