I have lived in Central Oregon for over 22 years, and I had no idea just how many places there are to visit in my own back yard until I bought a book, Oregon's Swimming Holes. A lot of these lakes and rivers you can drive to, but a lot of them are hidden and half the fun is finding them. I do however, need to buy a compass, lol. In this book it is organized by region and county and lists all the information you need to find the perfect swimming experience. Each of the 231 locations is rated and vital statistics, size, depth and flow, water quality and temperature, and bottom composition are given. Specific driving directions and over 100 original maps are included, as well as information on amenities, camping and nearby points of interest.

     I try to make it a point to visit several places a year that I have never been to, here in my own back yard. All too often we spend a lot of time and money making plans to go Mexico or Hawaii. When here in Central Oregon there are so many beautiful places to visit. We have Water falls to die for. Hot Springs to relax in and right here in La Pine we have over 15 local lakes to go and fish, swim, water ski or just hang out and take in the sights.