Harney County

Harney County is a county in southeastern Oregon covering roughly 26,500 square kilometers. The landscape features mountains, high desert plains, and basins with varied geological formations.

The county was established in February 1889 from parts of Grant County. It was named after William Selby Harney, a US Army officer who had a significant presence in the region during earlier military campaigns.

The county maintains strong agricultural traditions with approximately 500 ranches and farms producing cattle, dairy products, and hay throughout the region.

Burns serves as the main town offering services, schools, and supplies for the scattered population. Long distances between settlements mean you should plan travel carefully and allow time for journeys across the county.

The Malheur wetlands in the northern part provide one of North America's most important stopping points for migrating bird species. Seasonal bird movements attract observers seeking rare species in their natural habitat.

Location: Oregon

Inception: 1889

Capital city: Burns

Shares border with: Crook County, Grant County, Malheur County, Humboldt County, Washoe County, Lake County, Deschutes County

Website: https://harneycountyor.gov

GPS coordinates: 43.07000,-118.97000

Latest update: December 19, 2025 22:51