Top Rated Attractions in Bend

Avid adventurers and climbing enthusiasts will revel in a visit to the Smith Rock State Park. The park's rugged expanse is dotted with numerous rock formations, canyons, and geological marvels, its terrain carved by volcanic emissions and defined by towering spires, crags, and cliffs. Apart from embarking on climbing excursions, visitors can also hike across the landscape or glide along scenic trails on bikes. Keep your eyes peeled for scampering deer and beavers, as well as golden eagles and prairie falcons circling overhead. Camping is yet another activity to enjoy here. Named ones of the seven wonders of Oregon, the park makes for an eventful getaway.

A snow haven right in the heart of Oregon, the Wanoga Sno-Park provides ample opportunity to immerse in some winter fun. Located a short drive away from Sunriver and Bend, the this sno-park is an outdoor favorite among locals. It is open from November to April and offers exciting winter sports such as snow-sledding and tubing besides having many snowmobile trails as well. The Wanoga Sno-Park is pet friendly and also has warming shelters on-site. So bring out your snowboards and get ready for some epic sledding fun!

The Deschutes National Forest is a vast stretch of wilderness that is spread across several counties in central Oregon. The Newberry National Volcanic Monument, various wilderness areas, scenic rivers and the Oregon Cascade Recreation Area are few of the many on-site attractions that draw adventure enthusiasts and wildlife explorers to its picturesque landscapes. Relax or rejuvenate as you spend a day at the forest and experience exciting outdoor activities like biking, fishing, hiking, hunting, horse riding, and also try your hand at fossil collecting. If you wish to spend the night, the forest also offers campgrounds, cabin rentals, and RV camping options.

Originating from the Cascades, the Deschutes River which means 'The Falls' flows through central Oregon. Much of the river's water is utilized for the purpose of irrigation by the Central Oregon Irrigation District. The river is divided into three sections namely the Upper, Middle and Lower sections. The lower Deschutes section is ideal for water sports such as kayaking and white-water rafting. Fly fishing is also a popular activity on the Lower Deschutes. During summers, the river banks invite hikers and campers for an adventurous day out.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a part of the Deschutes National Forest and is a massive region comprising of trails, paved paths, lakes, lava fields and much more. Hiking and exploring the entire region can take even days, so the area draws in a lot of campers. So if you love the outdoors then you will be mesmerized with this unique geographic region which was shaped due to volcanic activity.

Sparks Lake is a scenic lake situated in the Deschutes National Forest. Known for is its scenic beauty, it is a popular lake for recreational activities. Sparks Lake is a glacial lake, formed by the retreat of glaciers during the last Ice Age. Here, you can explore the surrounding peaks and forests on a hike, try fishing, enjoy a leisurely family picnic, and camp the night out by its shimmering waters. Sparks Lake is also notable for its geothermal activity, which has created hot springs and fumaroles in the area.