The temperatures have started to rise and the calendar tells us its officially summer in Central Oregon. When visiting Sunriver, many guests immediately flock to the SHARC for their outdoor pools, hot tub, kids activities and more. For others, the lure of the Deschutes River and spending hours relaxing on a slow current has more of an appeal. For those planning on floating the Deschutes River in Sunriver this summer, we’ve got the ultimate guide to getting your feet wet, so to speak.

Floating the Deschutes River in Sunriver Essentials

Whether you want to avoid the crowds at the SHARC or simply enjoy relaxing on the water as you float past good wildlife viewing opportunities, you’ll love floating the Deschutes River in Sunriver. The Deschutes River winds through the Sunriver area offering gorgeous mountain views and Class 1 rated water with minor waves and no obstructions. Keep in mind that The Deschutes River is spring-fed and the water rarely exceeds 60 degrees in temperature.

Essentials:

• Life Vests
• Food and Water
• Appropriate Clothing
• Sunscreen
• Waterproof Case/Bag for Phone and/or Camera
• Floatie

Floatie and Water Craft Rental

Did you remember to pack a floatie? If not, no worries! Several businesses throughout Sunriver offer inner tube and floatie rentals for your convenience.

Sunriver ToyHouse

17345 Spring River Road, Sunriver | 541-647-4433

Offers river float tubes, stand up paddle boards, kayaks, rafts, trailers to haul and more

Reserve equipment online

Good 2 Go

57100 Beaver Drive, Building 17, Sunriver | 541-593-0339

The ultimate destination for floaties, party barges, stand-up paddleboard rentals, as well as float trips.

Sun Country Tours

57100 Beaver Drive, Building 26, Sunriver | 541-382-1709

Offers DIY inner tube rentals along with guided tours

More Information

Popular Float Launch and Takeout Points

Floating the Deschutes River in Sunriver can be done via several popular routes. Choose from the following launch and takeout points for a fun-filled day on the river. Floaters plan on putting in or taking out at Harper’s Bridge should do so on the south side of the river. The Sunriver Resort Marina may also be a launching/take out point, but may require access fees.

Big River to Harper Bridge

Distance: 7.5 miles

Float Time: 3-5 hours depending on wind direction and paddling

Harper Bridge to Besson Day Use Area

Distance: 1.8 miles

Float Time: 45 minutes

Besson Day Use Area to Benham Falls Day Use Area

Distance: 7.9 miles

Float Time: 3-4 hours depending on wind direction and paddling

Benham Falls Day Use Area is the last take-out point. Beyond this point is Benham Falls and all floaters must exit the river prior to the falls. Remember, life vests are required for ages 12 and under, no matter the type of watercraft you’re using — floatie, kayak, etc.

Sunriver Float Trips

Good2Go along with Central Oregon River Adventures (CORA) offer guided and unguided river trips on both the “Wild & Scenic” Deschutes River and the serene Little Deschutes River.  Staff explain local history and geology as you are shuttled to the river section of your choice. At the put in, river safety and etiquette are discussed before you embark on your river adventure, choose from canoes, kayaks, SUPs, or rafts for your mode of floatation.

Sunriver Tubing on the Deschutes River

The peaceful serenity of the natural landscape beckons floaters to the Deschutes River in Sunriver. Cool off during the heat of the summer and work on your tan while slowly meandering down the Deschutes River on an inflatable inner tube, flamingo, unicorn, alligator — whatever you prefer.

Enjoy the sunshine and quality time spent with friends and family when you float the Deschutes River in Sunriver this summer. Need more information about floating during your Sunriver vacation? Call our front desk and the reservationists at Sunset Lodging in Sunriver can answer your questions and point you in the right direction when it comes to floating the Deschutes River.