38 Adventurous Things To Do In Bend Oregon in Summer

 
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This post is sponsored by Visit Bend. All writing and ideas are our own!

It’s no secret that June, July, August, and September are some of the best months to visit Bend, Oregon. The summer season is the month that locals and visitors LIVE for.

That’s because with boundless biking, hiking, climbing, fishing, floating, and MORE, there are outdoor activities for practically everyone. Boredom doesn’t exist in Bend in summer!

In this post, we’re breaking down the best summer activities in Bend by land, water, town, and tours. This makes it easy to browse, which means you can get outside faster.

Let’s get started!

Things To Do in Bend Oregon in the summer

Getting To Bend, Oregon

Driving to Hart Mountain, Oregon

Getting to Bend in the summer is pretty straightforward! Bend is located in Central Oregon, in the high desert region of the Pacific Northwest.

Here are some general distances and driving times to Bend:

  • Portland to Bend Oregon: 160 miles, 3-hour 15-minute drive
  • Eugene to Bend, Oregon: 130 miles, 2.5-hour drive
  • Seattle, WA to Bend, Oregon: 330 miles, 6.5-hour drive
  • Medford to Bend, Oregon: 170 miles, 3-hour drive

The easiest way to get to Bend is by car, but it’s also possible to fly.

Redmond Municipal Airport serves the area with only four carriers – Alaska Air, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines.

These flying destinations are mostly limited to the west coast area.

Redmond Airport has connecting flights to/from Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle, LA, Denver, Portland, and Phoenix.

From here, you’ll have to rent a car or get a taxi into town – the airport is 17 miles from Bend.

Where To Stay In Bend, Oregon

There is an abundance of incredible places to stay in Bend, varying from uber-fancy to budget-friendly.

Here are our recommendations for Bend hotels at different price points:

Bend Oregon Hotels

Loge Camps in Bend Oregon Itinerary The Mandagies

($$$$) The Oxford Hotel. A perfect spot for a honeymoon or splurge trip, it’s RIGHT in the center of everything and extremely walkable to all things downtown.

($$$) Tetherow Hotel. The best choice for a solid mix of adventure and downtown luxury. It sits on a golf course, has a free shuttle to/from downtown Bend, and is a 20-minute drive form Mount Bachelor.

($$) Campfire Hotel. Less than a mile from the city center, this is the perfect budget-friendly place to stay in Bend. Includes an outdoor pool + hangout area, and is outdoor-themed!

($$) LOGE Bend. An excellent budget-friendly Bend hotel for those who want to maximize their time outside. Has bike rentals, fire pits, and trails on-site!

Bend Oregon Vacation Rentals

Coming with a large group and want to stay together?

Renting vacation homes in Bend, Oregon is a great way to spend time with your people in one place! Here are some preferred vacation rentals in Bend:

Large Westside Home (Sleeps 10): Located in one of the best neighborhoods in Bend (Kingston), walkable, fully-fenced with a great outdoor grill and patio area.

Riverfront Lodge (Sleeps 14): This spacious home is located right downtown, perfect for big family or friend groups. Extremely walkable to downtown attractions. Comes with a hot tub, outdoor grill, spacious bedrooms, and bikes!

Amazing West Side Home (2 King Suites) (Sleeps 10): Comes with 2 king suites to fit multiple families or couples. It also had a basement hangout area, hot tub, and outdoor eating arrangement!

Camping in Bend, Oregon

Camping in Bend, Oregon

Camping near Bend is an excellent way to maximize your time spent outside. Here are our favorite campgrounds near Bend Oregon:

Tumalo State Park: Not to be mistaken with Tumalo Falls, this state park is off Highway 20, on the way to Sisters, Oregon.

Cove Palisades State Park: This is a popular campground for watersports and canyon exploring. Choose between loops on the Deschutes River or the Crooked River.

Paulina Lake Campground: About a 45-minute drive south of Bend, this campground is right on the lake.

Camp Sherman: A small campground in the Deschutes National Forest and along the Metolius River. Stop by the Camp Sherman Store for some classic camping vibes.

Getting Around Bend

Getting Around Bend Oregon in Summer

It is easiest to get around Bend by car.

There are taxis and Ubers available for trips to and from the airport, but I wouldn’t rely on them for anything else. It can get REALLY expensive if you just rely on uber to get you around Bend!

For even more independence and portability, consider renting a campervan. This way, you can hop to and from campsites, exploring all the things to do in Bend Oregon in summer with maximum ease.

Outdoorsy camper van rentals are in Bend! Think of it like Airbnb but for RVs. You can pick one up in town, and then return it on your way home.

Before Your Visit (Tips For Visiting Bend)

Bend Oregon Summer Activities - Chush Falls

Before partaking in all of the things do in Bend Oregon in summer, there are a few things you need to know:

Take the Bend Pledge: It boils down to “taking care of the places that take care of us.”

The Bend Pledge is like an honor code, the golden rule, or treating others how you want to be treated. Sign it here, and you could win a free trip to Bend!

How To Visit Like A Local: Bend is a biker and walker-friendly town. When possible, consider walking to restaurants or bars, or renting e-bikes.

Get To Know The Permit System: Most wilderness areas around Bend require permits! Before planning your hikes in Bend, learn about when/where/and how to get permits here. Here are the most common types of permits you will need:

  • Wilderness Permits (for day use and backpacking in wilderness areas, some permits cost money, some are free)
  • Northwest Forest Pass (honored in National Forest areas)
  • Sno-Park Pass (to use winter recreation areas)

Voluntourism Programs: It feels good to give back to the places you love most!

Try signing up for a Cave Cleanup with Wanderlust Tours, Smith Rock Volunteer Day, or the Deschutes River Cleanup.

These are just some of the many ways to volunteer in Bend!

What To Pack For Bend in Summer

Things To do in Bend, Oregon during summer

Bend has a high desert climate, which means the summers here are generally dry and arid.

Here’s what you should be packing to enjoy Bend in summer:

Sunscreen: Yep, there’s tons of sunshine in Bend! Choose a sunscreen like Supergoop (but here’s the invisible dupe from Trader Joe’s) that’s sweat-resistant, and reapply regularly!

Sun Hat: Another way to protect yourself from the sun is wearing a hat. Here’s our current favorite.

Hiking Clothes: Choose pieces that have sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics like this series from REI.

Water Shorts: You’ll be in and out of the water all day, so Berty likes these Chubbies Retro Outdoor Shorts for all day stylish wear.

Water sandals: Our favorites are the Teva Hurricane XLT2s.

Northwest Forest Pass: You’ll need one to park at National Forest parking lots. Get one here.

Permits – Bend saw a 300% increase in visitors in the past 5 years, so obtaining permits is the new norm in wilderness areas.


Summer Activities in Bend, Oregon (In Town)

1. Walk Around Downtown Bend

Walking Around Downtown Bend, Oregon

One of the easiest ways to experience Bend in summer is by walking around downtown.

With cobblestone streets, art galleries, public art pieces, and tons of restaurant options, you can easily spend an entire evening downtown.

During the summer, you can experience the Bend Farmer’s Market (more on that below), First Friday Art Walk, and meander around Drake Park after dinner.

It’s one of the best downtown areas in the Pacific Northwest!

2. Go Shopping In The Old Mill District

Shopping at the Old Mill District

Address: 450 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend, OR 97702

For everything shopping, restaurants, and cafes, the Old Mill District is the place to be! Personally, we like to go there for the REI or Athleta to grab any last-minute outdoor gear.

While we’re there, we can grab a bite to eat. Our favorite places are Pastini and Cafe Yumm!

Take a walk around the area and discover signs sharing stories about the old mills that once existed right in that very spot.

3. Get Some Fresh Air at Drake Park and Mirror Pond

Walking Around Drake Park in Bend, ORegon

Drake Park is 13 acres of green space, right in the heart of downtown. It sits along the Deschutes River, so you can enjoy your badminton game or picnic right by the water.

Berty and I loved taking post-dinner walks around this park before we turned in for the evening.

It’s popular for hosting events, especially in the spring, summer, and fall. It underwent some major renovations in 2003 and is currently undergoing maintenance again in 2022. It’s always improving!

4: Drink Craft Beer

Bend Oregon Beer Trail Bevel Craft Brewery

Arguably, one of the best things to do in Bend in summer is gathering your friends to go have a beer!

Today, there are nearly 30 craft breweries in Bend, but this list includes Sisters, Prineville, Redmond, and Sunriver too. Here are some Bend breweries we recommend checking out:

Crux Fermentation Project: In the evening, Crux boasts the best sunset views in Bend on their patio.

Bend Brewing Company: Situate close to the water, this is a great gathering place for post-work drinks with coworkers downtown!

10 Barrel Brewing: Open kitchen, fire pit strewn patio, and tons of great food options, you’ll stay here all evening.

Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House: For classic pub food in a historic downtown building, this place is hard to beat!

Boneyard Beer Bend: This metal/junkyard-themed, spacious area is perfect for big crowds and rowdy (but respectful) gatherings. Come for the hoppy brews that have a cult following!

5. Bend Summer Indoor Adventures

The High Desert Museum Bend Oregon - TheMandagies.com

What if it’s too hot outside? There are plenty of Bend summer activities that you can enjoy indoors too!

The High Desert Museum is the most popular indoor summer activity in Bend, with animal shows, history, and fun exhibitions happening all the time!

Downtown, you can pop into several art galleries, the Deschutes Historical Museum, or the Tower Theater to catch a movie.

Need to burn off some energy? Head to the Mountain Air Trampoline Park, Trampoline Zone, K1 Go Kart Racing, or the SHARC (Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic and Recreation Center.). Each of these activities costs around $25 per visit.

To plan an event with a group of friends, consider looking at The Central Oregon Symphony concert schedule, or trying out one of many Bend Escape Rooms!

6. Visit The Bend Farmers Market

Bend Oregon Farmers Market

The Bend Farmer’s Market runs from May to October, rain or shine! You can find the market in Brooks Alley, between Oregon and Franklin St, and right behind the Tower Theater.

It’s open every Wednesday from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Come grab some fresh produce, icecream from Bontá, handmade goods, and more!

7. Bend Summer Festivals and Concerts

One of the best ways to enjoy summers in Bend is by attending a festival!

Bend Summer Festival happens every year and includes live music, a market with local goods, and lots of family activities.

The Les Schwab Amphitheater hosts an impressive lineup of concerts every year too. In 2022, it hosted Alanis Morrisett, Jim Gaffigan, Amos Lee, The Chicks, LANY, and Jack Johnson!

Other Bend festivals include:

Pole Pedal Paddle: A summer event that starts by skiing at Mt Bachelor, biking to the river, paddling the Deschutes, and then finishing with a 1-mile sprint. This relay race supports Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MSBEF).

Looking for more events during your summer in Bend? Check out the Bend Oregon Events Calendar.

8. Bend Brewfest

Bend Craft Breweries

Bend Brewfest is an event that happens every year that brings together 150+ craft beer, ciders, and winemakers into one location. They don’t call is Beer Town USA for nothing!

Tickets cost $50 (2022) and provide attendees with 2-day admission, a mug, 10 tasting tokens, and a Bend Ale Trail beer notes notebook.

Looking for more beer events in Bend? Check out these:

The Bend Ale Trail: A self-guided tour of Bend’s best breweries. Collect stamps at each location and receive prizes over time!

Rent a Cycle Pub: Blend the best of Bend with beer and bikes by renting a Cycle Pub for your next group gathering.

9. Goody’s Chocolate

Goody's Chocolate and Ice Cream

Address: 1111 SE Division Street, Bend, Oregon 97702, 541-385-7085

Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream has been in operation for over 30 years and make over 100 types of sweet treats!

Note: Goody’s Chocolate Factor Tours used to be a thing, but tours are no longer happening and have permanently closed. Visit their location is Downtown Bend for some sweet treats!

10. See The Last Blockbuster

Address: 211 NE Revere Ave, Bend, OR 97701, 541-385-9111

Thought Blockbuster was a thing of the past? Think again! Amazon Prime’s documentary of The Last Blockbuster has showcased the final store still in operation, located in Bend! Yes, you can still rent movies here, but it’s more of a fun relic and blast from the past.

It’s owned and operated by Debbie and Ken Tisher, who became a Blockbuster Franchise in 2000 after owning several video stores around Bend.

Outdoor Activities In Bend, Oregon (Land Sports)

Bend Oregon summer activities

11. Go Mountain Biking

Have you even experienced summer in Bend without hitting the bike trails? We think not!

Here are some mountain biking trails in Bend you should check out:

  • Phils Trail System: Tons of moderate grades and fund descents.
  • Swampy Lakes Sno-Park: This area is accessible for hikers and bikers in the summer.
  • La Pine State Park: Great area for new riders or for people with kids.
  • Mt Bachelors Downhill Park: Dozens of miles of trails via lift. Intermediate to advanced riders

Don’t have a bike? Rent them from Cog Wild and join their epic mountain bike tours too.

12. Try Road Cycling

Along with its beer accolades, Bend also has the title of Bike Town USA by many! The city is incredibly cycle-friendly, perfect for long rides and plenty of views!

The Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway is a series of routes that connect Central Oregon communities together. The most popular route is Sisters to Smith Rock, which is 36.5 miles one-way.

13. Visit Mt Bachelor In The Summer

Mount Hood in the summer season

Mount Bachelor isn’t just a snow sports destination!

During the summer season, you can experience hiking trails, the observatory, a scenic chairlift, disc golfing, and even a mountain bike park!

Mount Bachelor Background: Mount Bachelor is in the Central Oregon Cascade Range. It’s a stratovolcano that reaches 9,068 feet in elevation. It actually gets the name “Bachelor” because it stands apart from the Three Sisters peak nearby.

14. Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park, Bend, Oregon

Address: Terrebonne, OR 97760

One of the most quintessential Bend Oregon outdoor activities has got to be visiting Smith Rock State Park.

It’s a climber’s paradise, boasting some of the most famous routes in the United States.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to just be a climber to enjoy this park! There are tons of hiking trails, camping, and photography opportunities too.

Some of the most popular things to do at Smith Park include hiking Misery Ridge, walking the Canyon Trail, and snapping photos right from the parking lot.

15. Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area

Oregon Badlands Wilderness - Things To Do In Bend Oregon in Summer
Image by the Bureau of Land Management. See usage rights here.

The Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area is handled by the Bureau of Land Management. It consists of 29,180 acres, and consists of the Dry River Canyon, Horse Ridge Volcanoes, and Badlands Volcanic Area.

A variety of wildlife inhabits this high desert area. Dring your visit, you may see elk, mule deer, antelopes, bobcats, yellow-bellied marmots, golden eagles, and prairie falcons.

This area can host a ton of activities like hiking and camping, but the most popular tend to be taking horseback riding trails or riding ATVs.

16. Stargazing

Stargazing in Bend, Oregon

Central Oregon skies are perfect for stargazing! Most of the rain deposits on the west side of the Cascade Range, meaning the skies in Bend are clear the majority of the year.

Head up to the Oregon Observatory in Sunriver for daytime AND nighttime visits. The Pine Mountain Observatory is a great one to visit after sunset for public viewing hours. If you want to simply be out in the open viewing the stars, the Oregon Badlands is where you need to be.

Prineville Reservoir State Park is designated an International Dark Sky Park, which means it limits the amount of light pollution in the area, preserving the clear night skies. This park would be great for a stargazing camping trip!

17. Cave Exploring

Tips for Visiting Skylight Cave in Bend, Oregon

One of the most unique summer activities in Bend is to go spelunking!

“Spelunking”: the exploration of caves, especially as a hobby.

Because of Bend’s incredible volcanic history, there are a plethora of caves to explore in the area.

Some of the most popular caves in Bend include Lava River Cave, Boyd Cave, Skeleton Cave, Arnold ice cave, Hidden forest cave, and Skylight Cave.

Lava River Cave - Unique Things To Do In Bend, Oregon

Lava River Cave is the most accessible and family-friendly cave to explore. It’s the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon, stretching 5,211 feet long.

Visitors must listen to a ranger talk about White Nose Syndrome, which is a disease that can harm the resident bat population. It’s a $5 fee to enter the cave (or free if you have a Northwest Forest Pass or American the Beautiful Pass).

When exploring caves, we HIGHLY recommend bringing your own headlamp. Don’t rely on your phone’s flashlight – some caves require both hands to climb around.

The temperature drops rapidly in caves, so wear layers to keep you warm. (It’s an average of 40 degrees even in the summer!)

18. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Newberry National Volcanic Monument - Things To Do In Bend Oregon Summer

If you’re a geology buff, you’re going to love the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

Part of the Deschutes National Forest, the most recent major eruption was 75,000 years ago when it formed the Newberry Caldera.

Spread across 54,000 acres, you can explore a variety of sections with calderas, caves, lakes, mountains, and hikeable lava flows.

Lava Butte is a cinder cone that rises 500 feet above the ground. Hop on the shuttle ($3/ person) to take you to the top where there is a lookout.

Park at the Lava Lands Visitor Center to visit this, and hike the Trail of Molten Lake (a 1.1-mile loop.)

The Lava River Cave is also a popular attraction in the Newberry area. Hike the 1-mile tunnel in the dark to see the inside of an old lava tube!

19. Hiking In Bend, Oregon

One of our favorite things to do in Bend in summer is go hiking. There are tons of trails in town and nearby!

Here are some of our favorites hikes near Bend:

  • Deschutes River Trail (12 miles one-way)
  • Tumalo Falls (6.4 miles RT)
  • Hiking Pilot Butte (1.8 miles RT in the city)
  • Todd Lake Trail (1.7-mile loop)
  • Broken Top Trail To No Name Lake (5.5 miles RT)
  • Tumalo Peak For Sunrise (4 miles RT)
  • Dry River Gorge Trail (6.4 miles RT)
  • Sparks Lake Loop (2.4-mile loop)
  • Hike the South Sister (12.4 miles RT)
  • Peter Skene Ogden Trail (22.3 miles RT)
  • Chush Falls Trail (5.8 miles RT)
  • Oregon Desert Trail (Long-distance hiking trail through Eastern Oregon)

20. Rock Climbing in Bend

It’s no secret that Smith Rock State Park has the best rock climbing in the area. Some rock faces even reach up to 550 feet!

If you are looking for something a little less adventurous, walk along Tumalo Creek Trail to find a huge array of V1 and V2 bouldering climbs.

Early summer (and early morning) is the best time to go climbing in Bend. It’s not too hot!

21. Golfing in Bend

Bend boasts some pretty incredible golfing opportunities! There are three top-100 golf courses within Bend itself. These include Pronghorn, Crosswater, and Tetherow Golf Course.

Other golf courses include River’s Edge and Widgi Creek. We aren’t golfers ourselves, but this sounds like an incredible place to try it!

22. Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint

Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint is sadly passed by more than it should be! The Ogden Wayside is known for its basalt cliffs, striking sunrises and sunsets, and the incredibly scenic river canyon.

It hosts plenty of green space to stretch your legs and a rest stop for trucks and cars on either side of the highway.

If you want to stay longer, it’s actually a popular spot to go bungee jumping in Oregon!

Guided Tours in Bend, Oregon

23. Wanderlust Tours

Wanderlust Tours Starlight Canoe Tour - Cascade Lakes

If you want to really experience summer in Bend, book an adventure with Wanderlust Tours. They do guided tours of caves, sunrise and sunset paddles, trips to the Cascade Lakes, and even a Prohibition tour.

On our last trip to Bend during the summer, we booked the Starlight Canoe Paddle Tour. We arrived at Hosmer Lake during sunset and stayed out late to watch the stars come out. It was an incredible experience!

24. Bend Photography Tours

It’s no surprise that Berty and I like to take photos! We are always looking for new destinations to photograph, and Bend is no exception.

There are plenty of photography tours in Bend to check out, for those who want a guided experience with local photographers.

Looking for self-guided Bend photo tours? Download our Bend bucket list, or read our article about the best photo spots in Bend Oregon!

25. See Bend From Above!

Summer Activities in Bend Oregon

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you need to see Bend from above!

Big Sky Ballon Company provides a unique experience to see the high desert reagion and float through the nearby river canyon.

If you prefer to see Bend by plane, Bend Aircraft a whole selection of scenic flights, popular especially with photographers!

Note: While many other blog posts still mention the outdated Big Mountain Heli Tours as an option, this business is now permanently closed.

26. Ultimate Scavenger Hunt Bend

Get to know the city of Bend in a fun and interactive way – take the Ultimate Scavenger Hunt! This is a self-guided tour downloadable on your phone, and it will bring you around the city, sharing Bend’s latest and greatest destinations.

It’s a great way to get to know the city in a short amount of time!

Bend Outdoor Activities in the Summer (Water-Focused)

27. Surf On The Deschutes River

Bend Whitewater Park - Surfing in Bend

The Deschutes River runs right through town, making it a staple on any summer trip to Bend.

Through the main portion of town, there are three channels with distinct purposes:

  1. The Passageway Channel has a few rapids, perfect for tubers and floaters.
  2. Whitewater Channel has more rapids, and a section to try surfing. This is affectionately called Bend’s Whitewater Park.
  3. The Habitat Channel is not open to the public but is an area that protects various river vegetation, wildlife, and birds.

28. Floating The Deschutes River

You can also float/kayak/canoe the Upper Deschutes River!

Floating the Deschutes River is one of the most popular things to do in Bend Oregon in summer.

Tube rentals are available at Riverbend Park. From here, you can float through Old Mill District and through very light rapids. There is even a shuttle service to take you back to your starting point.

Floating the river takes around 60-90 minute ride, and the shuttle ride costs $3 per person.

29. Whitewater Rafting

Looking for some bigger rapids?

Sun Country Tours hosts exciting trips on the Upper Deschutes River, Mckenzie River, and Umpqua River.

Their most popular trip is the “Big Eddy Thriller.” This is a partial-day trip for beginners, to get your feet wet (literally) into the world of whitewater rafting.

30. Stand Up Paddle Boarding

SUP off the Deschutes River Trail - Bend, Oregon

One of the best stretches of water for stand up addleboarding (SUP) is on the Upper Deschutes River, between Dillon Falls and Benham Falls.

You can also take your SUP downtown and paddle around Mirror Pond and Drake Park.

Sun Country Tours offers SUP rentals, as well as guided tours if you want some lessons too!

31. Visit Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls Sunrise Bend Oregon The Mandagies

One of the most iconic Bend waterfalls is Tumalo Falls.

Dropping 89 feet into the stream below, this is a gorgeous Oregon waterfall with tons of vantage points to enjoy its beauty.

Getting there requires driving 2 miles on an unpaved road to the trailhead. There is a $5 parking fee, restrooms, and a picnic area.

32. Visit Other Waterfalls Near Bend

Waterfalls Near Bend, Oregon

Tumalo Falls is just one of many waterfalls near Bend! Here are some others to check out while you’re in the area:

  • Dillon Falls
  • Benham Falls
  • Chush Falls
  • Sahalie and Koosah Falls (McKenzie River Corridor)
  • Proxy Falls
  • Salt Creek Falls and Diamond Creek Falls
  • Steelhead Falls

33. Fishing in Bend

Did you know Bend is ranked one of the top 10 fly fishing towns by Forbes? With tons of rivers, streams, and lakes surrounding Bend, trout, steelhead and other fish are abundant.

Locals suggest checking out the Crooked River (by Smith Rock), Deschutes, Metolious, and Fall River for the most frequent sightings.

Outside of Bend, you can also find world-class fishing in Prineville, Sisters, LaPine, and Redmond too.

34. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Along the Cascade Lakes Highway are endless opportunities to launch your canoe or kayak in the water! The scenic drive itself is 66 miles long, and should takes you 4-5 hours to complete depending on how often you stop.

The road is open when the snow melts, so come later in the summer – it’s only open seasonally!

Of the 14 main lakes, the most popular lakes on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway include Todd Lake, Sparks Lake, Cultus Lake, Hosmer Lake, and Crane Prairie Reservoir.

This is a popular Bend summer destination for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and camping! It’s also an awesome day trip for having a lake day picnic.

35. Central Oregon’s Natural Hot Springs

Berty Mandagie floating in Hart Mountain Hot Springs

Have you ever been soaking in one of the many natural Oregon hot springs? Conveniently, Central Oregon has an abundance of them!

Paulina Hot Springs requires a bit of a hike, and is not super hot nor deep. But the views are incredible!

Umpqua Hot Springs is a 2-hour drive from Bend, but is an iconic Oregon pool that you’ve probably seen on social media!

Deer Creek Hot Springs (aka Bigelow HS) is a small pool tucked next to the McKenzie River in the Willamette National Forest.

McCredie Hot Springs is located outside of Oakridge. It’s known for its easy access and high temperatures.

Hart Mountain Hot Springs requires a longer drive from Bend, but you will be able to experience solitude in a natural pool and a structured one just 100 meters from each other.

For commercial pools, consider exploring Breitenbush, Summer Lake, Crane Hot Spring, or McMenamins Old St. Francis School.

Foliage in Oregon High desert

Day Trips From Bend (To Other Places)

Summer in Bend doesn’t have to end within the city limits!

Here are other adventures to extend your time in Central Oregon:

36. North of Bend, Oregon (And West)

Willamette National Forest: Hike or backpack the Mckenzie River Trail. See Sahalie & Koosah Falls, and Tamolitch Blue Pool.

Mt. Jefferson Wilderness Area: Marion and Gatch Falls (permit required), West Metolius River, and Three Fingered Jack Loop are the most popular hikes here.

Mount Hood National Forest: There is an abundance of hiking trails on Mount Hood, but the most popular are the Ramona Falls trail, Zig-Zag Canyon, and Trillium Lake Loop.

Emily in Hart Mountain Hot Springs in Eastern Oregon

37. South of Bend, Oregon

Umpqua National Forest: Here, visitors can go camping, see Toketee Falls, and soak at Umpqua Hot Springs.

Crater Lake National Park: Oregon’s only national park, this is the deepest lake (1,943 feet) in the United State!

Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge: This area is an incredible destination for wildlife photographers and those who seek solitude in nature.

38. Visit Bend’s Neighbors

Bend has some pretty incredible Central Oregon neighbors!

If you’ve got a little more time to explore even more things to do around Bend, make sure to check out these neighboring towns:

  1. Sisters, Oregon: This darling town is a great basecamp for even more adventures in the Deschutes National Forest.
  2. Redmond: Stay here to be near the Redmond Caves, and the Dry Canyon Trail.
  3. Madras: Come here for the high desert scenery, Crooked River Gorge, and the Pelton Dam.
  4. Prineville: Come here as a home base to explore the Oregon desert, like the Painted Hills, John Day Fossil Beds, and the Ochoco National Forest.
  5. La Pine: Visit La Pine for some nearby camping at Paulina Lake, East Lake, and incredible volcanic attractions.
  6. Sunriver: This is a destination resort perfect for families, golfers, and outdoor recreationists!

Things To Do In Bend Oregon in Summer (Summary List)

  1. Walk Around Downtown Bend
  2. Go Shopping in the Old Mill District
  3. Visit Drake Park and Mirror Pond
  4. Drink Craft Beer
  5. Bend Indoor Summer Activities
  6. Visit The Bend Farmer’s Market
  7. Enjoy Bend Summer Festivals and Concerts
  8. Bend Brewfest
  9. Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream
  10. Visit The Last Blockbuster Store
  11. Go Mountain Biking
  12. Try Road Cycling
  13. Visit Mount Bachelor in the Summer
  14. Smith Rock State Park
  15. Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area
  16. Stargazing
  17. Cave Exploring
  18. Newberry National Volcanic Monument
  19. Hiking Trails in Bend, Oregon
  20. Rocky Climbing in Bend
  21. Golfing in Bend
  22. Peter SKene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint
  23. Book an adventure with Wanderlust Tours
  24. Bend Photography Tours
  25. See Bend From Above
  26. The Ultimate Scavenger Hunt, Bend
  27. Surf on the Deschutes River (Bend Whitewater Park)
  28. Floating the Deschutes River
  29. Go Whitewater Rafting
  30. Stand Up Paddleboarding
  31. Visit Tumalo Falls
  32. Visit Other Waterfalls Near Bend
  33. Fishing in Bend
  34. Drive Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
  35. Soak in Central Oregon’s hot springs
  36. Day Trips North of Bend
  37. Day Trips South of Bend
  38. Visit Bend’s Neighbors

Did we miss any things to do in Bend Oregon in summer? What would you add to the list? Tell us in the comments!