Kayak, Paddle & Raft Outfitters in Bend
Bend sits at the heart of Central Oregon's water playground. The Deschutes River flows right through downtown, and the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway puts dozens of mountain lakes within an hour's drive.
Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe
Sun Country Tours
Wanderlust Tours
Deschutes River Outfitters
High Desert Drifters
Sunriver Watersports
Elk Lake Resort
Bend Whitewater Park
REI Bend
Sunriver Marina
Cultus Lake Resort
Central Oregon Adventures
Cascade Lakes — Central Oregon's Water Playground
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (Century Drive) winds west from Bend through the Deschutes National Forest, connecting more than a dozen stunning alpine and high desert lakes — each with unique paddling, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
Sparks Lake
Shallow, glassy lake with South Sister reflections. Best flat-water kayaking in Central Oregon. Non-motorized only.
Elk Lake
Deep, clear alpine lake with resort and boat rentals. Wind surfing, kayaking, fishing for rainbow trout. Stunning Cascade views.
Hosmer Lake
Catch-and-release only for Atlantic salmon and brook trout. Non-motorized boats only. One of Oregon's most unique fishing experiences.
Cultus Lake
Warmest and largest of the Cascade Lakes. Motorboats allowed, full resort and camping. Best swimming lake near Bend.
Crane Prairie Reservoir
Trophy rainbow trout and largemouth bass. Osprey nesting area. Great for drift boat and canoe fishing.
Todd Lake
Small alpine lake at the base of Broken Top. Short hike to shore. Cold but clear water, stunning scenery.
Paulina Lake
Inside Newberry Volcano caldera. Record-size brown trout. Geothermal hot springs on lake shore. Dramatic volcanic setting.
Deschutes River
Bend's backyard river. Tubing, SUP, kayaking, fishing, and rafting. Lava Island section is best for flat-water paddling.
Water Activities FAQ
Where can I kayak near Bend Oregon?
Top kayaking spots include Sparks Lake (flat water, stunning South Sister views), Elk Lake (alpine with rentals), the Deschutes River Lava Island section, Hosmer Lake (fly fishing paradise), and Cultus Lake. Tumalo Creek Kayak rents boats and offers guided tours.
Where can I paddleboard near Bend Oregon?
SUP is popular on the Deschutes River near the Bend Whitewater Park, Sparks Lake, Elk Lake, and Cultus Lake. Tumalo Creek Kayak, Elk Lake Resort, and Sunriver Watersports all offer SUP rentals.
Is there whitewater rafting near Bend Oregon?
Yes — Sun Country Tours and Deschutes River Outfitters offer guided half-day and full-day Deschutes River rafting trips. The Lower Deschutes near Maupin has Class III-IV rapids for experienced paddlers.
Where is the best fishing near Bend Oregon?
Crane Prairie Reservoir (trophy rainbow), Hosmer Lake (Atlantic salmon, catch-and-release), Paulina Lake (trophy brown trout), the Deschutes River (wild redside rainbows), and Elk Lake are all top choices. High Desert Drifters and Deschutes River Outfitters offer guided trips.
Where can I swim near Bend Oregon?
Cultus Lake is the warmest and most popular swimming lake. Tumalo State Park on the Deschutes River is a local favorite. Todd Lake, Elk Lake, and the Bend Whitewater Park are also popular summer swimming spots.