Discovery Park

Parks in Bend

This listing spacious grounds with manicured grass areas and dirt trails perfect for casual walks with your dog. The park features a dedicated dog area and remains typically quiet, making it an ideal spot for dogs to run and explore.

  • Address: 1315 NW Discovery Drive, Bend, OR 97703, USA
  • Phone: (541) 389-7275
  • Website: Visit website
  • Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (130 reviews)
  • Category: Parks

Visiting With Your Dog

Located at 1315 NW Discovery Drive, this beautiful waterfront park is one of Bend's best spots for a day out with your pup. The expansive grounds offer everything from shaded trails to open meadows, so whether your dog prefers exploring woodland paths or romping in wide-open spaces, there's something here for every canine personality.

When you arrive, you'll find ample parking right at the entrance, which makes loading up your wet, muddy dog afterward surprisingly manageable. I'd recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon, especially during warmer months, since the open areas can get crowded midday and the sun gets intense. Bring plenty of water—more than you think you'll need—along with waste bags and maybe a portable bowl. The trails wind through some gorgeous terrain, but there's limited shade in certain sections, so plan accordingly.

The off-leash areas here are fantastic for dogs that enjoy socializing, though I always keep an eye on the dynamics and have a recall command ready. The river access is a major highlight, particularly if your dog loves water. Just watch the current during spring runoff, and be prepared for a potentially muddy ride home.

What I love most about visiting is how easily it connects with the rest of Bend's recreation scene. After a few hours of hiking and play, we'll often head over to River's Place nearby for a coffee while the dog naps in the shade, or grab a beer at On Tap Breweries where they're welcoming to leashed pups on their outdoor patio. It's a perfect way to cap off an active morning without having to go home and clean up first.

The park's rating of 4.5 stars is well-deserved. Locals rave about the trails and the genuine welcome they feel bringing their dogs here. It's become our go-to spot on weekends, and I think once you visit, it'll become yours too.

Explore more dog-friendly places: Parks in Bend · All dog-friendly places in Bend