Oregon Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)
How many counties are there in Oregon? As of 2024, there are a total of 36 counties in the state of Oregon. Among them, Clackamas County is the oldest one (established in 1843) while Deschutes County is the youngest (established in 1916). With population of 790,670, Multnomah County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Harney County (26,250 km²) and the smallest is Multnomah County (1,127 km²).
Largest Counties in Oregon
1. Harney County
County Seat: Burns
- Area: 10,226 square miles
- Population: 7,515 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 43.4920° N
- Longitude: 119.0880° W
Location and History
Harney County, located in southeastern Oregon, is the largest county by area in the state. Established in 1889, it was named after William S. Harney, a cavalry officer in the U.S. Army. The county’s vast, arid landscape is characterized by sagebrush steppe, high desert, and mountain ranges. Historically, the area was inhabited by the Northern Paiute people before European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century. Harney County’s economy has traditionally been based on cattle ranching, agriculture, and resource extraction, with tourism and conservation efforts playing an increasingly important role.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 20 and State Route 78 are the main highways that traverse Harney County, connecting its rural communities. The county is home to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, a vast sanctuary that supports thousands of migratory birds and is a critical habitat for many species. Steens Mountain, a prominent natural landmark, offers stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The Alvord Desert, located in the southeastern part of the county, is another significant landmark, known for its strikingly barren landscape and hot springs.
2. Malheur County
County Seat: Vale
- Area: 9,930 square miles
- Population: 31,571 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 43.9822° N
- Longitude: 117.2374° W
Location and History
Malheur County is located in the southeastern corner of Oregon, bordering Idaho. Established in 1887, the county is named after the Malheur River, which flows through the region. The area was historically home to the Northern Paiute tribes, and later became a key region for fur trappers, settlers, and cattle ranchers. Malheur County’s economy is largely based on agriculture, particularly the production of onions, potatoes, and other crops, as well as cattle ranching. The county’s remote location and expansive landscapes have also made it a site for energy development projects, including solar and wind farms.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 84 and U.S. Route 20 are the main highways that provide access to Malheur County, linking it to both Idaho and the rest of Oregon. The Owyhee Canyonlands, a vast and rugged wilderness area, is one of the county’s most prominent landmarks, offering dramatic scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and rock climbing. The Leslie Gulch area, known for its unique rock formations and colorful cliffs, is another popular destination. Additionally, the Vale Historic District, with its well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflects the county’s rich history as a center for ranching and trade.
3. Lake County
County Seat: Lakeview
- Area: 8,358 square miles
- Population: 8,160 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 42.1912° N
- Longitude: 120.3458° W
Location and History
Lake County is located in south-central Oregon, bordering California and Nevada. The county was established in 1874 and is named after the numerous lakes found in the region, including Goose Lake and Summer Lake. Lake County’s history is closely tied to the development of ranching and farming in the late 19th century, with settlers drawn to the area by its open rangelands and abundant water sources. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, forestry, and mining, though tourism has become increasingly important due to the county’s scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 395 and Oregon Route 31 are the main highways that run through Lake County, connecting its remote communities to the rest of the state. The county is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Warner Mountains, which offer hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. The Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge is a significant landmark, providing a sanctuary for pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife. The town of Lakeview, often referred to as the “Tallest Town in Oregon,” serves as a gateway to these outdoor adventures and is home to several hot springs, including the popular Hunter’s Hot Springs.
4. Klamath County
County Seat: Klamath Falls
- Area: 5,945 square miles
- Population: 69,413 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 42.2249° N
- Longitude: 121.7817° W
Location and History
Klamath County is located in southern Oregon, bordering California. Established in 1882, the county is named after the Klamath people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The county’s history is marked by its strategic location along important transportation routes, including the Oregon Trail and later, the railroad. The economy of Klamath County has traditionally been based on timber, agriculture, and geothermal energy, with Klamath Falls serving as the economic and cultural center.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 97 and State Route 140 are major highways that traverse Klamath County, providing crucial links to northern California and central Oregon. Crater Lake National Park, one of the most famous natural landmarks in the United States, is located in the northern part of the county and attracts visitors from around the world with its deep blue waters and stunning volcanic caldera. Klamath Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Oregon, is another significant landmark, offering recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The Klamath Basin, known for its rich agricultural lands and extensive wetlands, is a critical habitat for migratory birds and a key area for wildlife conservation.
5. Douglas County
County Seat: Roseburg
- Area: 5,134 square miles
- Population: 111,201 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 43.2170° N
- Longitude: 123.3965° W
Location and History
Douglas County is located in southwestern Oregon, stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Cascade Mountains. Established in 1852, the county was named after U.S. Senator Stephen A. Douglas, who was a strong advocate for the Oregon Territory’s statehood. The county’s history is deeply connected to the timber industry, which has been a cornerstone of the local economy for over a century. Douglas County’s diverse landscapes, ranging from coastal areas to mountainous forests, have also made it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 5, which runs north-south through the length of Douglas County, is the main transportation artery, connecting the county to the rest of Oregon and California. The Umpqua River, a significant natural landmark, flows through the county and is renowned for its salmon and steelhead fishing. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, located along the coast, offers unique landscapes of towering sand dunes and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding, hiking, and beachcombing. The county seat, Roseburg, is home to the Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History, which provides insights into the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
6. Grant County
County Seat: Canyon City
- Area: 4,529 square miles
- Population: 7,445 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 44.3918° N
- Longitude: 118.9508° W
Location and History
Grant County is located in eastern Oregon, in a region characterized by rugged mountains, forests, and high desert. The county was established in 1864 and named after Ulysses S. Grant, who was a prominent Union general during the Civil War and later became President of the United States. Grant County’s history is closely linked to the gold rush of the mid-19th century, which brought prospectors and settlers to the area. The economy has historically been based on mining, logging, and ranching, with tourism and outdoor recreation becoming more important in recent years.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 395 and State Route 26 are the main highways that provide access to Grant County’s remote and scenic areas. The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is one of the county’s most famous landmarks, known for its well-preserved fossils and striking geological formations. The Strawberry Mountain Wilderness offers hiking, camping, and wildlife observation in a pristine natural setting. The Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site, located in John Day, is another significant landmark, preserving the history and culture of Chinese immigrants who played a vital role in the region’s development during the gold rush era.
7. Crook County
County Seat: Prineville
- Area: 2,987 square miles
- Population: 24,738 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 44.2997° N
- Longitude: 120.8344° W
Location and History
Crook County is located in central Oregon, encompassing a diverse landscape of high desert, mountains, and forests. The county was established in 1882 and named after General George Crook, a prominent figure in the Indian Wars of the American West. Prineville, the county seat, was the first incorporated city in central Oregon and has a rich history tied to the cattle ranching and timber industries. Over the years, the county has diversified its economy, with tourism, outdoor recreation, and technology playing increasingly important roles.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 26 and State Route 126 are the main highways that provide access to Crook County, linking it to both the Cascade Mountains and the high desert. The Ochoco National Forest, which covers much of the county, is a major landmark, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, are located in the western part of the county and are renowned for their vibrant colors and ancient geological features. Prineville Reservoir State Park is another popular destination, offering boating, fishing, and camping in a scenic setting.
8. Jefferson County
County Seat: Madras
- Area: 1,791 square miles
- Population: 24,502 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 44.6330° N
- Longitude: 121.1787° W
Location and History
Jefferson County is located in central Oregon, north of Bend. The county was established in 1914 and named after Mount Jefferson, a prominent peak in the Cascade Range that dominates the western skyline. The area’s history is closely tied to agriculture, particularly the cultivation of potatoes, wheat, and hay, supported by the Deschutes River irrigation system. Over time, the county has also become known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, with the surrounding mountains, rivers, and lakes drawing visitors year-round.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 97 is the main highway that runs through Jefferson County, providing easy access to Madras and the surrounding areas. The county is home to several significant landmarks, including Lake Billy Chinook, a large reservoir created by the damming of the Deschutes River, which offers boating, fishing, and camping. The Warm Springs Indian Reservation, located in the western part of the county, is another notable area, offering cultural experiences and insights into the traditions of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute tribes. Additionally, the Erickson Aircraft Collection in Madras showcases a wide range of vintage aircraft, reflecting the region’s aviation history.
9. Deschutes County
County Seat: Bend
- Area: 3,055 square miles
- Population: 198,253 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 44.0582° N
- Longitude: 121.3153° W
Location and History
Deschutes County is located in central Oregon, with Bend as its county seat and largest city. The county was established in 1916 and is named after the Deschutes River, which flows through the region. Deschutes County has experienced significant growth over the past few decades, transitioning from a timber-based economy to a hub for outdoor recreation, tourism, and technology. The area is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and forests, which have made it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 97 is the primary highway that runs through Deschutes County, connecting Bend to other parts of Oregon and beyond. The county is home to several major landmarks, including Mount Bachelor, a popular ski resort that offers year-round recreational activities. The Deschutes National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing, with scenic byways such as the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway offering breathtaking views. The Newberry National Volcanic Monument, located south of Bend, is another significant landmark, featuring the Newberry Caldera, Lava Butte, and Paulina Falls, showcasing the region’s volcanic history.
10. Lane County
County Seat: Eugene
- Area: 4,722 square miles
- Population: 382,971 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 541
- Latitude: 43.8041° N
- Longitude: 123.3646° W
Location and History
Lane County is located in western Oregon, stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Cascade Mountains. The county was established in 1851 and named after Joseph Lane, the first governor of Oregon Territory. Lane County’s history is marked by its early timber industry, which drove much of the region’s economic growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the county is a diverse region with a mix of urban and rural areas, including the city of Eugene, known for its vibrant arts scene and as the home of the University of Oregon.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 5, U.S. Route 101, and State Route 126 are major highways that run through Lane County, providing connectivity between its coastal, valley, and mountain regions. The county is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Oregon Coast, where the Siuslaw National Forest meets the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning coastal views and recreational activities. The University of Oregon in Eugene is a major cultural and educational landmark, with attractions such as the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and Hayward Field, a world-renowned track and field venue. Additionally, the Heceta Head Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country, is located along the coast and is a popular destination for tourists.
List of All Counties in Oregon Alphabetically
Below please see all Oregon counties which are listed in alphabetical order.
- Baker County, OR
- Benton County, OR
- Clackamas County, OR
- Clatsop County, OR
- Columbia County, OR
- Coos County, OR
- Crook County, OR
- Curry County, OR
- Deschutes County, OR
- Douglas County, OR
- Gilliam County, OR
- Grant County, OR
- Harney County, OR
- Hood River County, OR
- Jackson County, OR
- Jefferson County, OR
- Josephine County, OR
- Klamath County, OR
- Lake County, OR
- Lane County, OR
- Lincoln County, OR
- Linn County, OR
- Malheur County, OR
- Marion County, OR
- Morrow County, OR
- Multnomah County, OR
- Polk County, OR
- Sherman County, OR
- Tillamook County, OR
- Umatilla County, OR
- Union County, OR
- Wallowa County, OR
- Wasco County, OR
- Washington County, OR
- Wheeler County, OR
- Yamhill County, OR
Map of Oregon Counties
