Just 40 minutes east of the hubbub of Bend, Oregon, sleepy Highway 27 winds 43 miles north from Highway 20 to the city of Prineville. Although the entire route is a state highway, the southernmost 18 miles are unpaved but are of high-standard graded gravel suitable for a passenger vehicle. Private ranches are intersper
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
This site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- Source Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.blm.gov ↗
- Contact 541-416-6700 · BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you fish at Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you camp at Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Merrill Road. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Millican Valley OHV Trail System
ConfirmedThis site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
EncMstr / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Oregon Badlands Wilderness
ConfirmedThis site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
