The best things to do in Bend in May
May 2, 2024
8 minute readPlay hard and play nice
It’s no secret that Bendites are obsessed with dogs, from playing, hiking, and spoiling our own poochies to welcoming all the chonky, floofy, drooly, and derpy puppers vacationing in Bend.
With over 40 restaurants welcoming you and Fido for some alfresco dining, comfy dog-friendly lodging options, a plethora of dog-friendly businesses and pet stores, more than 50 miles of urban trails, and heaps of dog-friendly parks and National Forest land, Bend, Oregon is literally a paradise for our BFFs — best fur friends.
So sit, stay, listen, and let’s talk about the best places, activities, and tips on how to be the goodest dog and dog owner in Bend.
Best off-leash areas in Bend
What makes our canine friends jump up and down for joy? Bend has abundant parks, trails, and outdoor spaces, especially off-leash dog areas. Dog parks in Bend include everything Fido will love, from grassy fields, nature trails, and swimming holes along the Deschutes River. Bend Parks & Rec offers nine incredible off-leash parks with acres of drool-worthy playgrounds.
Popular off-leash parks in Bend include Pine Nursery Park, Riverbend Park, and Hollinshead Park. The Bob Wenger off-leash area at Pine Nursery is an extensive 18-acre fenced-in area with nature trails, a separate space for small dogs, and a four-acre turf field great for chucking tennis balls and Frisbees. Riverbend Park, located along the Deschutes River, includes a one-acre fenced-in area with access to the river so your doggo can splash in the cool water on a hot day. Hollinshead Park has a three-acre partially fenced-in area with grassy grounds, big trees, and plenty of room to get the zoomies out.
Trail dogs
Itching to get out of town? There are many trails and open spaces for dog walks in the BLM, Oregon Badlands Wilderness, and the Deschutes National Forest. Rimrock Trailhead (AKA Good Dog) is close to down and a doggy paradise, with trails through the forest and down to the river.
The Deschutes River Trail offers miles of hiking, swimming holes, and gorgeous views. Dogs can be off-leash from September 15 through May 15, while leashes are required for the rest of the year.
The Deschutes National Forest does have several seasonal leash restrictions. For a comprehensive guide, our friends at DogPac.org have put together a brochure regarding these and other restrictions.
Winter dog play
Wanoga Sno-Park and Edison Sno-Park have acres of dog-friendly snow-covered terrain for winter fun. While they’re rolling in the white stuff, chasing snowballs, and bounding around with joy, you can snowshoe, nordic ski, or simply stroll along with a hot beverage in hand.
However, just because there is snow on the ground doesn’t mean you can leave the poop behind. Please remember to pick up the number two and dispose of the bag in the trash.
Dog-friendly restaurants and lodging in Bend
Bend was named Dog Town USA, but it’s also known as Beer Town USA. That means it’s only appropriate that we have so many dog-friendly breweries and restaurants. 10 Barrel, Cascade Lakes Brewing Co., GoodLife Brewing, Crux Fermentation Project, Worthy Brewing, and McMenamins Old St. Francis School, to name a few, welcome you and Fido on their patios and outside dining areas.
Ready to snuggle in for the night? There are loads of lodges and Bend hotels that are happy to accommodate your furry friends. At LOGE, you can “pup it up” by adding amenities like a dog bed, treats, and toys to your room. The Oxford Hotel, in downtown Bend, offers a deluxe pet amenity package and offers dog walking services. The Hampton Inn and Suites Bend is also a great option, as it is just a short walk to the Deschutes River and Riverbend dog park. While most hotels and short term rentals require a fee for dogs, it’s worth knowing that your furry friends will be welcome just about anywhere in Bend.
Dog-friendly hotels in Bend
Pet stores and services
Was somebody a good girl and didn’t bark once in the car? That deserves a new toy! Pet stores in Bend are here to help spoil your best friend with a tail-wagging selection of everything your pet needs for an active, healthy, happy lifestyle. Try Bend Pet Express, Mini Pet Mart, and Mud Bay for local pet favorites. They have natural foods, supplements, and unique toys for your furry friend.
If your pooch gets into mud, meets a skunk, or rolls in some irresistible dead thing, there are several self-serve dog washing facilities available, including Bend Pet Express, Pet Supplies Plus, and U-Wash Pets & Grooming.
Ruffwear—a Bend-based company—makes gear for dogs and their human companions that makes adventuring safe, smart, and fun. Check out their retail store for life jackets, booties, toys, collapsible bowls, and even backpacks. That’s right, make Daisy carry her own food on your next backpacking trip together.
Veterinarians in Bend, Oregon
Sometimes, all this tail-wagging adventure means minor boos-boos or worse. If your fur baby requires medical attention, we have many caring veterinarians in town and two 24-hour emergency care services.
- Bend Animal Emergency and Specialty Center: Call right away if you believe your four-legged bestie is experiencing an emergency. Their veterinarians have the skill and expertise to provide outstanding veterinary emergency and critical care services for your pet.
- Veterinary Referral and Emergency Center: Emergency doctors are on-premises 24 hours, 7 days a week, and are able to handle any type of pet emergency, from ear infections to complicated trauma patients.
Who’s a good dog? And dog owner.
With all these glorious outdoor spaces and fun opportunities for dogs to dog around in Bend, playing nice and having good manners is essential. Following the rules, practicing good etiquette, being considerate of others, and respecting our public lands make for a positive, safe, and tail-waggin’ good time for all.
Here are a few tips, reminders, and to-do’s while doggin’ around in Bend:
- It’s hard to believe, but not everyone likes dogs. And not all dogs like other dogs. You know she’s a good girl, but that doesn’t mean others do. Dogs can make some people nervous, so keep them close and on a leash. Following leash laws in the Deschutes National Forest, around town, and at the dog park is essential for the safety and happiness of all, including wildlife. Always carry a leash and use it when required.
- Prevent barking. If your pup loves to sing the songs of his ancestors, redirect him, use voice commands, or maybe it’s just time to head back to basecamp.
- Know your dog’s behavior and limits. We all get cranky sometimes. If you know your doggo has moments of grouchiness or aggression towards other dogs or people, stay clear of off-leash areas to avoid injuries and unwanted encounters.
- Scoop their poop. Whether you are hiking in the Badlands, playing at Good Dog, or walking to the brewery, bag it up. But wait, you’re not done. Please take the bag with you and drop it in the trash — never leave it sitting on the side of the trail.
- Be sure you and your dogs stay clear of wildlife and follow Bend’s Leave No Trace principles.
