Water Activities
There are abundant opportunities for swimming and motorized & non-motorized boating on the lakes and waterways in Deschutes National Forest. Places to waterski and windsurf also exist.
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Aspen Day Use Area
This site accesses the Deschutes River as well access to the Deschutes River Trail. There is a boat launch at this day use area, picnic tables and a restroom.Motors are prohibited on the Deschutes…
Beach Picnic Area
Site Closed
This site is located on the shores of Elk Lake and has stunning views of South Sister. During the summer months it is a popular location to enjoy a sandy beach, swim and picnic.PLEASE…
Benham Falls East Day Use / Trailhead
This day use area is located in a beautiful stand of old growth ponderosa pines on the edge of a riparian area. There are several picnic tables and access to the Deschutes River Trail which leaves…
Besson Picnic Area
Near Sunriver, this small picnic area is along the Deschutes River. There is a boat ramp at this location. There is an accessible restroom and picnic tables.Recreation Fee Site: Parking at this…
Big Cove Boat-In Campground
Site Closed
Big Cove Boat-In Campground is 100% RESERVATION ONLY. Reservations can be made up to one day in advance of arrival date.There is a composting toilet at this facility.WHERE TO PARK: There is a parking…
Big Eddy Trailhead
This is a beautiful site to take photos of the Big Eddy rapids! This site provides access to the Deschutes River Trail . The parking lot has a toilet and a picnic table. Dogs must be on leash at…
Big River Boating Site
This is rustic site with no amenties except great access to fishing!Boat fishing or drift fishing are the best methods for catching brown, rainbow and brook trout or whitefish at this site.There is…
Big River Campground/Big River Group
Site Open
Big River Campground is located close to Sunriver, OR. It is a great place for a summer outing and spending time on the Deschutes River. A group site, located across the road from the main…
Blue Bay Boating Site
Site Closed
This shallow launch provides access to Suttle Lake at the slow speed (10mph) end of the lake. Large craft are not reccommended.There is a campground adjacent to the boat launch.Recreation Fee…
Blue Bay Campground
Site Open
Blue Bay Campground is on the south shore of Suttle Lake'There is a boat launch adjacent to this campground.Find a map of this campground here.