Sawyer Park

Park Overview

Right next to the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon, Sawyer Park spans 45 acres of riverside beauty. Once an Oregon State Park, this natural haven was handed over to the Bend Park and Recreation District in 1980. The park unfolds on both banks of the Deschutes, giving you plenty of space to explore and connect with nature.

Amenities and Recreation

You'll discover expansive green spaces near the parking lot and across the river - excellent for throwing a frisbee or simply lounging with a good book. River access is just steps away, making this a go-to spot if you're looking to cast a line. Both bait and fly fishing are fair game year-round in this stretch of the Deschutes, but keep in mind there's a two-trout daily limit with an eight-inch minimum length. Expect to reel in modest-sized rainbow trout here.

Scattered picnic tables throughout the grassy areas make impromptu lunches a breeze - just grab your cooler from the car and you're set. When nature calls, you'll come across portable toilets near the parking area. And if you're bringing your four-legged friend along, you'll appreciate the dog-friendly water fountains and waste bag dispensers that help keep the park clean for everyone.

Trail Network

Sawyer Park's charm extends to its web of paved and unpaved trails, including access to the popular Deschutes River Trail. A footbridge spans the river, connecting you to neighboring green spaces like First Street Rapids Park, Sawyer Uplands Neighborhood Park, and Archie Briggs Natural Area.

Whether you're in the mood for a casual stroll, a morning jog, or a more ambitious hike, there's a path for you here. Many locals gravitate toward the less-developed trails that hug the riverbank, offering a more intimate nature experience. The terrain varies nicely - you can walk alongside the gentle rush of the river or climb to the canyon rim for more sweeping vistas.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Perhaps what makes Sawyer Park truly special is its rich tapestry of wildlife. It's earned a spot on the Oregon Cascade Birding Tour route, and for good reason - over 140 bird species have been documented here. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic bald eagles and ospreys soaring overhead, or the delicate Violet-green Swallows and Ruby-crowned Kinglets flitting among the trees. Great Blue Herons often stand sentinel along the water's edge, while Lesser Goldfinches add splashes of color to the landscape.

The park's juniper trees and towering pines create a peaceful backdrop that makes it hard to believe you're still within Bend's city limits. Beyond birds, you might encounter lizards sunning on rocks, chipmunks darting between shrubs, and occasionally deer grazing in quieter areas. Spring brings a special treat as wild irises emerge, dotting the landscape with purple blooms. If you're lucky, you might even stumble upon raspberry plants bearing sweet fruit in season.

River Access

The Deschutes River is undeniably the heart of Sawyer Park. Multiple access points invite you to engage with the water, whether you're looking to cool off during those hot summer afternoons or find a peaceful spot to sit and reflect. Some areas require a bit of scrambling to reach the water, so wear appropriate footwear. Dedicated fishing trails trace the riverbank, while certain sections offer deeper, slower waters suitable for a refreshing dip.

There's something incredibly soothing about the constant soundtrack of flowing water that fills the park. It creates a calming atmosphere that feels miles away from urban life, even though you're just a short drive from downtown Bend. Natural rock formations along the shore not only provide picture-perfect views but also comfortable perches where you can sit back and absorb the tranquil surroundings.