Klamath Falls

Klamath Falls is a county seat in southern Oregon near the California border, located on the eastern edge of Upper Klamath Lake. The city spreads across a relatively flat area, with residential neighborhoods and commercial streets extending eastward from the lakeshore.

The settlement began in the 1860s as a trading and supply point for surrounding ranches and adopted its current name in 1892. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century brought lumber industry and farming operations to the region.

The name refers to the Klamath waterfalls that once flowed through today's downtown before they vanished due to land reclamation. Visitors today notice the geothermal heating systems in the center, which have warmed buildings and sidewalks with natural earth heat for decades.

The downtown can be explored on foot, with many shops and restaurants along Main Street and nearby streets. Visitors planning to explore natural areas should arrange a car, as most attractions lie outside the city.

The city has tapped geothermal energy from underground sources since the 1930s, making it one of the oldest geothermal sites in North America. Some sidewalks remain snow-free in winter thanks to this heat.

Location: Klamath County

Inception: 1905

Elevation above the sea: 1,249.4 m

Address: Klamath Falls, OR, USA

Website: http://ci.klamath-falls.or.us

GPS coordinates: 42.22333,-121.77750

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:28