It felt like winter held on for a long time this year, but it’s finally the time to hit the water this summer. I am not much of a cold plunge fan of the frigid Deschutes River, but it always calls my name when friends and family visit Central Oregon each summer. Typically, about 250,000 river users float and paddle the river between Memorial Day and Labor Day, so it’s a common adventure that warrants a few reminders, even for seasoned locals.

 

Here are some tips for getting the best river day this summer:

 

1.      Plan ahead. In past years, it was easy to show up and have a spontaneous river float. That’s not necessarily true anymore. If you don’t want to be part of the big crowd, consider a brunch-time float or early evening reservation if the schedule allows. The experience will be enjoyable and you can avoid the hottest hours of the day.

 

2.      Use Park & Float. Park & Float, at Simpson Ave. and Bradbury Way across from The Pavilion, has free parking, tube rentals and access to the Ride the River shuttle. You can skip parking and traffic congestion just a few blocks away! Free life jackets and rentals are available from Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe at two locations: Park & Float and at Riverbend Park.

•                    Park & Float – open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily (weather permitting) from June 22 to Sept. 2.

•                    Riverbend Park (kayaks, SUPs, lifejackets only) — open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (weather permitting) now to Sept. 2.

 

3.      Ride the shuttle. The Ride the River shuttle starts and ends at Park & Float, beginning June 22 (weather permitting). $4 round trip makes transportation easy for river users with shuttles departing every 15-20 minutes from 11 am to 7 pm. Advanced tickets can be purchased from Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe online now. On your reservation date, check-in at Park & Float for the wrist band valid for the entire day.

 

4.      Obey neighborhood parking rules. Remember to follow the neighborhood parking permit requirements near Drake Park. Please respect neighborhoods, businesses and parking time limits. A parking citation can rain on your perfect river day.

 

5.      Help keep the river clean. Secure your gear to avoid losing personal items and/or garbage in the river. If it’s valuable, leave it behind or make sure you trust your dry bag. And please refrain from alcohol and anything in glass containers.

 

6.      Use designated access points. A few years ago, we surveyed access to the river and found that in addition to the 20 spots that are meant for getting in and out of the water, there are an additional 70 social trails that degrade conditions and harm the habitat. These areas are being fenced in some cases, so please do your part to help them repair.

 

7.      Keep it safe for you and others. A river day can be a ton of fun and the wild, natural environment should be respected. Wear a lifejacket or PFD, and consider your own and your child’s abilities before entering the river and always supervise children in and around water. There are no lifeguards at the river, so please take responsibility for your safety. And please skip bridge jumping. It’s very dangerous and illegal in Bend where the logging industry past is sometimes lurking just below the surface.

 

For more information and maps of floating routes, visit bendparksandrec.org/float.

 

Julie Brown is the community engagement director for Bend Park & Recreation District.