It is the only incorporated population center within Crook County. Powell Butte, Post and Paulina are the other communities found within the sparsely settled regions of the county. Livestock, forest products, recreation, agriculture, manufacturing and wholesale trade comprise the major industries found within the county. Covering approximately 2,991 square miles, Crook County is rich in forests, rangelands and irrigated agricultural fields. The elevation of Prineville is 2,868 feet and receives an average of 10.5 inches of moisture per year.
Nights are cool and daytime temperatures are moderate.
The county abounds with many streams, reservoirs, and the Ochoco Mountains. These resources provide for both winter and summer recreation. Rural environment is a predominant way of life for the residents living in Crook County. Approximately 48 percent of the county is in private ownership and the remainder in USFS and BLM ownership. Several federal and state agencies are headquartered locally and numerous other professionals conduct business in the area.