Bend, Oregon is a veritable outdoor playground and a true paradise for water enthusiasts. With its pristine lakes, tranquil creeks, and rushing rivers, this Pacific Northwest jewel is a hotbed of kayaking adventure. But with so many options to choose from, where should you dip your paddle first? That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’re going to share the top nine places to kayak in Bend, Oregon. These stunning spots offer everything from calm, scenic tours for beginners and families to adrenaline-pumping white-water routes for seasoned veterans. So, whether you’re a pro paddler or a novice looking for your next adventure, there’s a perfect place waiting for you in Bend.
1. Deschutes River
| Location | Bend, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 0 Miles |
| Experience Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Top Features | Flowing right through the heart of Bend, the Deschutes River is a paradise for kayakers. It offers numerous entry and exit points, allowing for a customized kayaking experience. |
The Deschutes River is an iconic part of Bend’s landscape, offering kayakers unparalleled views of the city and surrounding nature. Suitable for beginners and intermediate kayakers, it provides a range of conditions from calm waters to mild rapids, depending on the season and location. Statistics from Bend Parks and Recreation show that this river attracts hundreds of kayaking enthusiasts every year.
Dillon Falls are rapids in the U.S. state of Oregon near Bend in the Deschutes National Forest. With a pitch of 76.5°, the falls are a significant obstacle to whitewater running and are rated Class 5.
https://www.visitbend.com/listing/dillon-falls/
Dillon Falls: Dillon Falls is an excellent kayaking spot for those seeking to challenge themselves on the Deschutes River. The class II-III rapids are sure to give you an adrenaline rush. The natural beauty surrounding this spot is breathtaking with sights of volcanic cliffs, towering pines, and plenty of wildlife.
Big Eddy Rapids: For seasoned kayakers looking for a thrilling ride, Big Eddy Rapids should be on your list. The class III-IV rapids offer an exciting and fun challenge. However, due to its intensity, this stretch is not recommended for beginners.
Sunriver Marina: If you’re looking for a more leisurely paddle, the calm waters around the Sunriver Marina provide a perfect spot. This section of the Deschutes River is an excellent place to spot wildlife, as well as the magnificent view of Mt. Bachelor looming in the distance.
2. Sparks Lake
| Location | Deschutes County, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 26.5 Miles |
| Experience Level | Beginner to Advanced |
| Best Time to Visit | June to October |
| Top Features | Stunning mountain views, clear waters, and diverse wildlife |
As one of the high Cascade Lakes, Sparks Lake provides kayakers with picturesque views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Bachelor Mountain. The lake’s crystal clear waters and gentle currents make it an excellent spot for beginners. More experienced kayakers can explore the more extensive sections of the lake or venture to the outflow into Sparks Creek. According to the Deschutes National Forest Service data, Sparks Lake sees a high number of visitors during the summer months, testament to its popularity.
Sparks Lake Water Trail: The Sparks Lake Water Trail is perfect for exploring the lake’s scenic beauty. This route offers excellent views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mt. Bachelor, providing fantastic photo opportunities.
Ray Atkeson Loop: For those who enjoy a more relaxed and scenic kayaking experience, the Ray Atkeson Loop is a perfect choice. Named after the famed nature photographer, this trail showcases stunning views of the lake and surrounding Cascade peaks.
Sparks Lake Day Use Area: Ideal for families or group outings, the Day Use Area provides easy access to the lake, with ample opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and picnic breaks.
3. Little Deschutes River
| Location | La Pine, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 30 Miles |
| Experience Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Top Features | Meandering river, scenic views, and wildlife spotting opportunities |
The Little Deschutes River is a less crowded but equally beautiful kayaking spot compared to its larger counterpart. Its meandering path offers scenic views of forests and meadows, with abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife. The river’s mostly calm waters are suited for a relaxing paddle, though there are a few spots with mild rapids for a bit of thrill. Visitor data from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department indicate a growing number of kayakers choosing the Little Deschutes River for its tranquility and natural beauty.
La Pine State Park: The river’s flow here is gentle, making it perfect for beginners or those seeking a tranquil kayaking experience. The park offers beautiful sights of wildlife, towering ponderosa pines, and the famous “Big Tree,” Oregon’s largest ponderosa pine.
Quail Run Golf Course: While it might seem unconventional, the stretch of the Little Deschutes River that runs through the Quail Run Golf Course offers a peaceful kayaking experience. Enjoy the lush green landscape of the course as you navigate the calm waters.
Fall River Campground: Situated at the confluence of the Fall River and the Little Deschutes River, this spot offers an immersive kayaking experience. The clear, spring-fed waters are calm, making it perfect for leisurely exploration and bird watching.
4. Tumalo Creek
| Location | Bend, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 7 Miles |
| Experience Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Best Time to Visit | April to September |
| Top Features | Flowing waters, small rapids, and a variety of flora and fauna |
Tumalo Creek is a local favorite and one of the more adventurous kayaking spots in Bend. It presents a combination of flowing waters and small rapids, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced kayakers. The creek runs through thick forest, offering close encounters with Bend’s diverse flora and fauna. Visitor records from the Deschutes National Forest show a steady rise in Tumalo Creek’s popularity over the years, particularly among more seasoned kayakers.
Tumalo Creek to Deschutes River: This stretch of Tumalo Creek is a journey from the creek’s serene waters into the powerful currents of the Deschutes River. This route is an excellent option for intermediate kayakers looking to experience a variety of conditions in one adventure.
Shevlin Park: The stretch of Tumalo Creek flowing through Shevlin Park is an ideal spot for beginners or families. The slow-moving waters are perfect for a leisurely paddle, and the park itself offers beautiful scenery, picnic spots, and trails for when you need a break from the water.
Tumalo State Park: This tranquil stretch of Tumalo Creek is perfect for a relaxing day of paddling. The park offers easy access to the creek and has amenities like picnic areas, campsites, and hiking trails.
5. Elk Lake
| Location | Deschutes County, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 33.7 Miles |
| Experience Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
| Top Features | Clear waters, surrounding mountain views, and a variety of water sports |
Elk Lake is a pristine body of water nestled among towering peaks, including Mount Bachelor. Its calm waters and stunning backdrop make it an excellent location for kayaking. In addition to paddling, Elk Lake offers various water sports, including stand-up paddleboarding and swimming. According to statistics from Deschutes County, the lake is one of the region’s top recreational destinations, especially in the summer.
- Elk Lake Day Use Area: With crystal clear waters and breathtaking views of Mt. Bachelor, the Elk Lake Day Use Area is a kayaker’s paradise. You can spend the day exploring the lake’s shores, birdwatching, or even fishing.
- South Shore: The South Shore of Elk Lake offers a quieter kayaking experience, with fewer visitors and a serene atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
- Point Campground: Located on the western shore of Elk Lake, Point Campground offers easy water access and beautiful views. Enjoy the calm waters during the day and camp under the stars at night.
6. Lava Lake
| Location | Deschutes County, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 37.8 Miles |
| Experience Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
| Top Features | Clear waters, good fishing, and breathtaking views of Mt. Bachelor |
Lava Lake, another gem in the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, is known for its clear waters and a serene environment. The lake’s relaxed pace makes it ideal for beginners or those looking for a peaceful kayak ride. With Mt. Bachelor in the backdrop and great fishing opportunities, Lava Lake is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Data from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife show that it is a popular spot for angling enthusiasts.
- Lava Lake Lodge Marina: The Lava Lake Lodge Marina is the ideal starting point for your kayaking adventure. With rental facilities and a peaceful atmosphere, this spot provides a great opportunity to explore the expansive lake.
- East Shore: The East Shore of Lava Lake is known for its calm waters and incredible wildlife. As you paddle, keep an eye out for ospreys, bald eagles, and a variety of waterfowl.
7. Paulina Lake
| Location | Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 39.7 Miles |
| Experience Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Best Time to Visit | June to October |
| Top Features | Clear blue waters, volcanic landscapes, and hot springs |
Paulina Lake is a unique kayaking spot located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The lake’s strikingly blue waters set against an impressive volcanic landscape make for a memorable kayaking experience. Adding to the allure are several natural hot springs located along the shore. Paulina Lake is reported to be one of the top spots for water sports within the monument, according to data from the United States Forest Service.
8. Deschutes River Whitewater Rafting
| Location | Bend, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 3.6 Miles |
| Experience Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Top Features | Class III and IV rapids, thrill-filled adventure, professional guides available |
The Deschutes River Whitewater Rafting area offers a thrill-filled adventure for experienced kayakers and whitewater rafters. With professional guides available, this part of the Deschutes River promises an adrenaline rush with its Class III and IV rapids. Visitor data from the Bend Parks and Recreation show that this area sees high activity during the peak season, highlighting its reputation among thrill-seekers.
- Maupin City Park: Located in the heart of Maupin, the city park offers easy access to some of the most exciting rapids on the Deschutes River. The class III-IV rapids here, including the infamous “Boxcar” rapid, provide thrilling experiences for whitewater rafting enthusiasts.
- Harpham Flat to Sandy Beach: This stretch of the Deschutes River is one of the most popular for whitewater rafting. The 13-mile route has plenty of class II-III rapids that make for an exhilarating day on the water. In between the rapid sections, you’ll also get to enjoy the scenic beauty of the river canyon.
- Warm Springs to Trout Creek: This 11-mile section of the Deschutes River offers a mix of calm sections and challenging rapids, making it perfect for a full day of rafting. The most intense rapid here is Whitehorse, a class III+ rapid that requires precise maneuvering.
9. Metolius River
| Location | Jefferson County, Oregon |
| Distance from Bend City Center | 44.2 Miles |
| Experience Level | Intermediate |
| Best Time to Visit | April to October |
| Top Features | Fast-moving current, scenic landscapes, and a variety of wildlife |
Located about an hour from Bend, the Metolius River offers a picturesque kayaking experience with its fast-moving current and beautiful landscapes. Kayakers can expect to see a variety of wildlife and unique plant species. Despite its distance from Bend, the Metolius River attracts a number of visitors every year, with data from Jefferson County indicating a steady increase in visitation.
- Camp Sherman to Lower Bridge: This peaceful section of the Metolius River is perfect for kayakers seeking a serene experience. The calm, clear waters are ideal for leisurely paddling, and the surrounding forest offers picturesque views and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities.
- Allingham Bridge to Camp Sherman: This stretch of the Metolius River is not only serene but also rich in wildlife. As you navigate the calm waters, keep an eye out for bald eagles, osprey, and river otters.
- Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery: Located on the Metolius River, the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery offers an unusual kayaking experience. You can paddle past the hatchery and learn about their conservation efforts, then continue exploring the beautiful river.
Conclusion
Bend, Oregon, with its vast and diverse waterways, truly offers a kayaking experience for everyone. The serene beauty of the Metolius River, the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Deschutes, the scenic splendor of Elk, Lava, and Paulina Lakes, and the gentle charm of Tumalo Creek all combine to create a cornucopia of kayaking adventures. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil paddle or an exhilarating ride down cascading rapids, Bend has it all. So grab your paddle, don your life jacket, and set off on a kayaking adventure in the beautiful Bend, Oregon. You’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
