Ask Sam Terrell
Welcome to the awe-inspiring Cougar Mountain Ranch, a hunting ranch for sale nestled in the historic region of Fort Rock only an hour south of Bend, Oregon. This sprawling 1,280-acre property presents an unparalleled blend of privacy, natural beauty, and modern amenities, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle amid nature. With its rich history and expansive landscape, Cougar Mountain Ranch offers a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of the Pacific Northwest.
Cougar Mountain Ranch encompasses two 640-acre parcels that together form an expanse of 1,280 contiguous acres of fenced and posted land, zoned for Exclusive Farm Use (EFU). Surrounded by some of the most untamed natural lands in the US, the property’s seclusion and privacy is maintained by the natural barricades of rim rock and Devil’s Garden lava flow. Access is protected and guaranteed by a BLM Right of Way effective until 2036. Beyond the property boundaries, 30,000+/- acres of roadless public lands await to be explored while providing exceptional photographic opportunities of Fort Rock, the Juniper Rock Formation, and the stark landscape of the Oregon Outback.
At the heart of the ranch is a beautifully crafted 1,805 square foot log home that serves as a masterpiece of rural elegance, combining rustic charm with modern comforts. Constructed in 2007, the cabin features chinked juniper log construction and a durable metal roof, which blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. A solid concrete perimeter foundation ensures stability, while a stamped concrete patio and a large, partially covered back deck offers a fantastic spot for entertaining guests or enjoying the stunning desert sunsets.
Inside, the cabin is a haven of warmth and elegance with hardwood floors and high-quality finishes throughout. The walls and staircase display the organic beauty of the natural juniper logs used to construct the cabin, along with tongue and groove knotty pine adding to the overall aesthetic of the space. The large windows in the lower level and in the loft flood the cabin with natural light and frame the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The cabin is equipped with both a wood stove and a forced air furnace for heating, complemented by central air conditioning for the warmer months, creating a comfortable repose regardless of the season and high desert weather.
The kitchen is thoughtfully designed for both functionality and style, featuring tile countertops, custom cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances. An island provides additional workspace and serves as a casual dining area, making the kitchen an inviting hub for friends, family, and guests.
The ranch offers two bedrooms, each characterized by exposed beams and hardwood floors, echoing the cabin’s aesthetic. The bathroom is well-appointed with dual vanities, tile countertops, and a shower, combining luxury with practicality in this remote setting. An open loft above the living room serves as additional sleeping space or as an entertainment area, enriched by custom juniper banisters that exemplify the unique craftsmanship of the cabin.
To the south of the cabin is a 2000 +/- ft private airstrip that allows options for gaining access to the property. To the east of the landing strip is a versatile pole building, which includes a three-sided hangar and a fully enclosed storage area/shop with concrete floors and roll-up doors supporting the ranch’s operations. This structure is ideal for storing farm vehicles and equipment, aircraft, or serving as a workshop to enhance the ranch’s functionality.
Cougar Mountain Ranch holds a deep historical and archaeological significance, with nearby Cougar Mountain Cave providing evidence of human habitation dating back over 9,000 years. This enriches the property with a profound sense of place and history, making it not just a home but a custodian of Oregon’s ancient cultural heritage.
The ranch is endowed with excellent water resources, including three wells, a pump house, and a watering hole to support wildlife. Multiple species of animals can be found on the property including birds, raptors, cougars, deer, elk, coyotes, bighorn sheep, antelope, and sage grouse. Cougar Mountain Ranch has an ideal location for those looking to find hunting opportunities, being located between multiple pivots and the Devil’s Garden lava flow. This positioning allows the ranch to serve as a corridor for elk as they move through the region.
Those in search of waterfowl hunting opportunities can find them at Silver and Summer Lakes to the south. Fishing opportunities are prevalent in the area ranging from the Ana River to Thompson and Duncan Reservoirs. The ranch’s proximity to the iconic landscapes of Fort Rock State Natural Area, Christmas Valley Sand Dunes, and sites like Hole in the Ground, Crack in the Ground, and the Lost Forest, offers abundant recreational opportunities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to exploring geological wonders. In the center of a dark sky area, evenings are ripe for viewing shooting stars and satellites.
Cougar Mountain Ranch is more than just a property; it is a legacy waiting to be embraced. With its expansive amenities, low maintenance set up, historical significance, and breathtaking natural beauty, the ranch offers an exceptional lifestyle or investment opportunity for solar projects in the heart of Oregon's high desert. Whether you seek a private retreat or a hunting paradise, Cougar Mountain Ranch invites you to build your future amidst the rich landscape of the Oregon High Desert.
