5 Best Places to Paddle Board in Bend, OR

Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s high desert, Bend offers scenic landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Curious about the best places to paddle board in Bend, OR?

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable paddleboarding journey among lush forests and breathtaking mountain views. Let’s dive in!

🗺️ Map

Where to Paddle Board in Bend

Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!

#1 Deschutes River

• 🏖️ Location Type: River
• 📍 Access Point: Riverbend Park (🔗 Google Maps)
• 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate currents, mild winds
• ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
• 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, ducks, various river birds
• ️🏞️ Landmarks & Views: Old Mill District, Farewell Bend Park
• ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution during high water, respect private property

The picturesque Deschutes River winds through Bend, offering a serene and easily accessible paddling experience.

Launch your board from Riverbend Park and explore the calm stretches along the Old Mill District, taking in natural beauty and local landmarks.

#2 Elk Lake

• 🏖️ Location Type: Mountain Lake
• 📍 Access Point: Elk Lake Resort (🔗 Google Maps)
• 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, occasional winds
• ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, deer, various birds
• 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: South Sister and Broken Top mountains
• ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of changing weather, respect private property

Located within the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, Elk Lake offers a tranquil and scenic paddleboarding experience.

With stunning mountain views and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

#3 Sparks Lake

• 🏖️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
• 📍 Access Point: Sparks Lake Day Use Area (🔗 Google Maps)
• 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, light winds
• ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, birds of prey
• 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: South Sister, Broken Top, Mt. Bachelor
• ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of rocks, respect seasonal closures

Surrounded by volcanic peaks, Sparks Lake is a stunning destination for paddleboard enthusiasts.

Enjoy the majestic views of the Three Sisters Wilderness while paddling through clear, reflective waters. Be aware of submerged rocks and follow seasonal closures.

#4 Hosmer Lake

• 🏖️ Location Type: Mountain Lake
• 📍 Access Point: Hosmer Lake Boating Site (🔗 Google Maps)
• 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, slight wind
• ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
• 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Brook trout, Atlantic salmon, bald eagles
• 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Cascade Mountains scenery
• ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Non-motorized boats only, respect private property

Hosmer Lake, located in the Deschutes National Forest, offers paddle enthusiasts a peaceful and pristine experience.

Its clear water, diverse wildlife, and lush surroundings make it a fantastic spot for paddleboarding and fishing alike.

#5 Tumalo Creek

• 🏖️ ️Location Type: River
• 📍 Access Point: Tumalo State Park (🔗 Google Maps)
• 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate currents, wind may vary
• ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, beavers, various birds
• 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Tumalo Falls, canyon walls
• ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution during high water, respect private property

Tumalo Creek offers a unique paddling adventure that combines rushing rapids and serene floating stretches.

Start at Tumalo State Park and make your way to the splendid Tumalo Falls for a rewarding experience. Be mindful of the varying currents and winds.

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