5 Stunning Spring Photos to Capture in Central Oregon

Spring in Central Oregon brings a vibrant display of nature's beauty, making it the perfect time to capture breathtaking moments. From majestic mountain views to delicate wildflowers, here are five of the best spring photo opportunities in the region.

1. Sunriver Nature Center - Meadow and Mountain View

Sunriver Nature Center offers an idyllic scene of rolling meadows framed by the Cascade Mountains. As spring sets in, the landscape transforms into a lush green expanse, with bright wildflowers dotting the terrain. The reflection of snow-capped peaks in the nearby ponds creates a picture-perfect shot, especially during golden hour when the warm hues highlight the mountain ridges.

Photo Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. A wide-angle lens will help capture the full expanse of the meadow and mountains.

2. Bald Eagle Perched on a Branch, Ready to Dive for a Fish

Spotting a bald eagle in action is a thrilling experience, and Central Oregon’s lakes and rivers provide the perfect setting for this majestic bird. One of the best places to see this sight is at the Metolius River Fish Hatchery, where eagles often perch high above, scanning the waters for their next meal. Another great spot is at Davis Lake, where they often fish for whitefish.

Photo Tip: Use a telephoto lens to zoom in on the eagle without disturbing its natural behavior. Keep your camera on a high shutter speed to freeze the moment it swoops down for its catch.

3. Wildflowers at the Base of Mt. Bachelor and Hosmer Lake

Nothing says spring in Central Oregon like a field of wildflowers against the rugged backdrop of Mt. Bachelor. The area around Hosmer Lake is bursting with colorful blooms, including lupines, Indian paintbrush, and buttercups. The contrast between the delicate petals and the towering mountain makes for a striking composition.

Photo Tip: Use a low angle to highlight the flowers in the foreground while keeping Mt. Bachelor in the background. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors and reduce glare from the lake.

4. Cascade Mountain Views with a Sunrise Shadow

Watching the sunrise over the Cascade Range is an unforgettable sight. As the sun rises, it casts dramatic shadows across the mountains, creating a dynamic interplay of light and dark. A fantastic location for capturing this stunning view is the Cascade View Trailhead just outside of Redmond. The changing hues of the morning sky make for a breathtaking capture.

Photo Tip: Arrive early to set up your shot and use a tripod for stability. Experiment with different exposures to capture the depth of the shadows as they shift across the peaks.

5. Painted Hills on a Spring Day

The Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds, are a must-see for any photographer. Their vibrant layers of red, gold, and orange create a surreal landscape. Spring is the best time to visit the Painted Hills—it’s cooler, and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, dogs should always be on a leash when visiting to help protect the delicate environment.

Photo Tip: Keep the focus sharp the Painted Hills by using a mid-range aperture.

Plan Your Spring Photo Adventure

Spring is one of the best times to explore and capture the beauty of Central Oregon. Whether you're a professional photographer or just love taking pictures, these locations provide incredible opportunities for stunning shots. So grab your camera, head outdoors, and let nature provide the perfect backdrop for your next masterpiece!