This summer, whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or just a day at the beach, Central Oregon has no shortage of family-friendly locations, perfect for swimming, floating or boating with the whole crew. When it’s time to beat the heat, look no further than our own backyard. We have compiled a list of the hottest places to cool down without having to travel too far to have some fun!
One such gem is Diamond Lake Resort. While it is the furthest drive on our list, near Crater Lake National Park, it is well worth the trip. The historic resort was built in 1922 and is still in operation today. Accommodations range from cozy lakeside cabins, tent and RV sites for a campout or a stay in one of the hotel rooms. The charming “Store and Marina” offers up souvenirs, snacks and just about any recreation rental you can think of. Need a bike? A kayak? A boat? Look no further. Or just spend some time relaxing on the beach where kids can swim in a sectioned area with views of nearby mountain peaks. You don’t want to miss the annual July 4th celebration with live music and fireworks show on the lake.
Next on the list, Crescent Lake Resort. Off Highway 58, approximately 60 miles south of Bend, it is nestled along the shores of Crescent Lake where day trippers gather to boat, kayak or enjoy lunch on the resort patio overlooking the lake. For longer stays, Crescent Lake Resort has 21 cabins to choose from. Families can spend time picnicking and swimming on the beach, rent a kayak, jet ski or pedal around the lake on one of the Aqua Cycles!
Along the Cascade Lakes highway, Cultus Lake is a family favorite. On a hot summer day, you can find folks lining the shores of the day use area. The crystal-clear lake offers a cool plunge, a perfect place to launch a motorboat or cast a line. A stay at the Cultus Lake Resort gives you more time to enjoy the scenic high lake atmosphere under the pines, with a variety of lakeside cabins, a BBQ restaurant for those times you don’t want to cook and even pontoon and ski boat rentals.
Next stop along the Cascade Lakes Highway, just 35 miles west of Bend, sits Elk Lake Resort. Elk Lake is a local favorite as well. With its beachside cabanas, pizza shack and ice cream stand, what’s not to love? It is also a stopping point for the weary Pacific Crest Trail hikers who will share tales of their travels if you ask. Elk Lake Resort has been undergoing renovations with new ownership, updating and repairing the well-worn resort. One new feature for 2026 that has been announced so far is a private beach area for main cabin guests! So if the day use beach is not as exclusive as you’d like, take a look at one of the cabins, stay a little longer and enjoy access to the private beach.
Southeast of Bend, within the caldera of Newberry Volcano sits East Lake Resort where families can spend the day on the resorts sandy beach, relaxing in a little red cabin or out exploring the volcanic monument. Originally opened in 1915, the current resort offers cabins, campsites, a general store and tackle shop where you can rent boats, kayaks and get any gear you might need to try your hand at some of Oregon’s finest fishing. The resort sits on the shores of East Lake, a lake formed from the eruption of Newberry volcano and now is a perfect home base for exploring all that Newberry National Volcanic Monument has to offer. When you are done exploring the obsidian flows and scenic mountain views, come back to the lake, relax and grab a bite to eat at the Blue Duck Grill.
Looking for something a little bit closer? Tumalo State Park is just minutes from downtown Bend. The park sits along the Deschutes River and offers a day use area, with picnic tables and a shallow water wading spot, perfect for littles. Make it a staycation with a reservation at the Tumalo State Park campground with full hookup spots, tent sites and even yurts!
Wherever you decide to go this spring and summer, be sure to get out there and enjoy all that Central Oregon has to offer! While some of these locations offer personal protective equipment like life jackets and helmets, it is always best to plan ahead by packing your own for each member of the group or call the location to verify availability for a safe and enjoyable day at the beach!
This article appears in Bend Nest Summer 2026.
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