River Adventures with Sun Country Tours in Bend, Oregon - Bend, Oregon

River Adventures with Sun Country Tours in Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregonmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–8 hours, multi-day for Umpqua

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness to handle swimming, hiking to put-ins, and staying afloat for extended periods.

Overview

Sun Country Tours unlocks the best of Oregon’s rivers with tubing, rafting, and brew tours in Bend. Dive into family-friendly rapids, scenic floats, and multi-day adventures tailored to all skill levels.

Details

Bend, Oregon, sits at the eastern edge of the Cascade Range, where volcanic plateaus meet swift rivers carving through ancient lava flows. Among these waterways, the Deschutes, McKenzie, and Umpqua Rivers offer dynamic playgrounds for paddlers and floaters alike. Sun Country Tours taps into this landscape with an array of river experiences designed for every skill level, from gentle family floats to multi-day rafting excitement.

At the heart of Sun Country Tours' offerings is the Big Eddy Tubing trips—whether the All Day Adventure or the Big Eddy Thrills versions through Bend and Sunriver—where passengers drift through sections of mild rapids mixed with easy stretches perfect for swimming and sun breaks. The McKenzie Magic trip uncovers more technical rapids and stunning views of moss-covered basalt walls and old-growth firs, while the Umpqua 2-Day Adventure extends the journey to cover remote river corridors rich in native wildlife and cascading side streams.

Guides bring an impressive balance of skill and local knowledge, ensuring safety while fostering fun. Guests rave about personalized attention, with activities like impromptu river games and guided swims that enliven the experience downstream. Small touches, such as well-planned picnic stops in shaded grassy areas and stops at jump rocks, add layers of fun and engagement.

For craft-beer lovers, the Raft-N-Brew and Tube N' Brew packages combine river time with craft brewery visits, a local favorite that blends Oregon’s outdoor culture and brewing prowess. These day-long journeys merge outdoor adventure with Bend’s renowned beer scene, making them a unique, multi-sensory experience.

Sun Country Tours stands out in the Central Oregon outdoor scene by catering to families and adventurers with approachable trips that don’t sacrifice excitement or scenic value. Whether it’s the ease of the Ride the River wristband for flexible tubing or the challenge of the McKenzie Magic’s rapids, this company offers authentic, immersive river days that capture the spirit of Oregon’s rivers.

Adventure Tips

Wear water shoes or sandals

Rocky riverbeds and occasional sharp debris make protective water footwear a must.

Bring your own dry bag

Keep valuables and dry clothes safe from splashes and accidental dips during tubing or rafting.

Arrive early for best parking

Sun Country Tours trips often start early; getting there ahead of time ensures hassle-free loading and a smooth departure.

Hydrate and pack sunscreen

Oregon’s sun can be intense, especially on the river, so layer on sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Jump rocks on the Big Eddy section for a river swim break
  • Secluded side streams along the Umpqua for quiet paddling

Wildlife

  • Osprey soaring above the rivers
  • River otters playing near the shorelines

History

The Deschutes River corridor has served as a transportation and fishing route for the Warm Springs and other indigenous peoples for centuries.

Conservation

Sun Country Tours actively promotes Leave No Trace principles and partners with local watershed groups to protect Oregon’s river ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Big Eddy launch area
  • Cliffs along the McKenzie River
  • Quiet banks of the Umpqua

What to Photograph

Flowing rapids
River wildlife
Lush riverbanks and rock formations

Recommended Gear

Water shoes

Essential

Protect your feet from sharp rocks and slippery riverbeds.

summer specific

Lightweight swimwear

Essential

Quick-drying and comfortable for hours on the river.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Prevent sunburn during exposed river sections.

summer specific

Dry bag

Essential

Keep your gear and electronics dry throughout the trip.

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