Pendleton OK for a family? (Portland, Medford: hotels, schools, camping)

[bluebird39]

Hi there,

Just trying to get some info about Pendleton for a possible job/relocation. We lived in the Medford area for many years (also K-Falls, and even a summer near Lakeview). We are in Michigan now, and would appreciate any information about Pendleton, especially the schools, housing prices, culture, and climate. We also have family in Portland, so I'm familiar with that part of the state too, but frankly, I've never been to Pendleton, although DH has many times. How does it compare to some of the places mentioned? Thanks!

[Dolphinswink]

I grew up in Pendleton but have not lived there since 1983. I have visited almost annually though because I still have family living there. So take that into consideration since I can only speak of personal experience via growing up and via visits.

Pendleton gets all four seasons. The area is high desert so you can expect warm/hot dry summers and cold snowy winters. Although the winters, that I recall, are nowhere near as bad or as long as a midwestern one

I would classify Pendleton as a mostly conservative "red state" sort of area politically. That's not to say there isn't diversity, that's just my personal take from a liberal-leaning perspective. It's all relative right?

Largely argicultural area surrounding Pendleton. Lots of farmers ... definitely a Cowboy / Native American feel to the area, which I always thought was cool.

Depending on what you want out of the area, you will either be bored to tears or delirously happy. For me, growing up there was boring but when returning to visit, I can appreciate the clean air, the small town feel, how nice it feels to walk down main street and feel like I've been transported back in time, partake in the Blue Mountains for hiking, camping, skiiing, boating, etc ... Columbia River isn't too far away and there are lots of places all over E. Oregon that cater to the outdoor enthusiast. If you like hunting or fishing, this place would be up your alley as well.

I think Pendleton is nicely situated where one could enjoy day or weekend trips to places like the Tri Cities, Portland, or the coast. The drive along the Columbia River between Pendleton and Portland is always one of my favorite drives. The greenage and cleaniness of Oregon all over,is something to behold and something I personally miss.

No doubt you've heard of the annual Round Up? That's the biggest thing going for Pendleton in tourism. Next year is it's 100th anniversary and from what I have heard, even towns a couple hours or so away from Pendleton have hotels booked up solid in advance of this week long event. It's a pretty cool time of the year and has something for everyone, not just the rodeo. My favorite was the Native American events.

You won't find much diversity in the way of culinary culture, but if you like gourmet coffee and good wines, be sure to check out the Great Pacific Wine and Coffee place on Main street.

I'm probably not much help .. I don't have children so can't say how it is in terms of raising a family, only speaking as someone who was born there and left upon graduation. Pendleton is a nice, quiet town and people who like it quiet with wide open spaces, should find this area to be a good fit.

Some links you might find useful:

City of Pendleton, Oregon -- Welcome to the Real West!

The Pendleton Chamber of Commerce

Denied:1up! Software ()

Pendleton Round-Up

[bluebird39]

Thank you! I looked at some of the sites, and it looks nice there! With kids, we don't have much need for lots of night life... quiet is good. And right now we're in a town of less than 1000. The nearest big town to us is over 30 minutes away and only has 5000 or so, but just 3-4 hours South is Detroit, and that huge population corridor between Detroit, Cleavland, Grand Rapids, Chicago, etc...

Anyway, I appreciate your response!

[skinem]

Well, I raised two kids in the area from '92-2000, and they can read 'n write and everything!

The schools aren't bad at all--cut above average, at least 8 years ago. Dolphinswink gave a good description and feel for the place, but I would say one thing, as not being a Pendleton native...it can be a pretty insular place. There is a somewhat puzzling arrogance from some folks about the town, especially when it come to other areas in Umatilla county. My wife called in the "Big fish/small pond syndrome". Pretty accurately, I'd say.

That being said, we did enjoy the area very much--liked the climate, and by and large, the people. There are larger populated areas not so far away for more shopping (Walla Walla, Tri-Cities, WA) and other things to do. Lots of "outdoorsy" type things to do. If you like wide open country, dry, fishing/hunting/camping, cowboys, small towns, you'll love it.

We did.

[bluebird39]

Thanks for your response. We do like the outdoors, and even after moving from Oregon almost 3 years ago, DH still goes back there every fall to hunt elk in that NE corner of the state. I suspect that's a primary reason he wants to move back. He's been to Pendleton many times, but I've only been once, and just drove through. Good insight though, thanks.