Sunriver, Oregon

Sunriver, Oregon, United States

The name “Sunriver” alone elicits images of solar-speckled waters and the coy brush of Pacific zephyrs across forests of pine trees. Expect nothing less with a visit to Sunriver, Oregon. Indulge in one of the Pacific Northwest’s hidden treasures, with the Deschutes River to its west and the enveloping Deschutes National Forest. Sunriver's residents have sought to embrace the natural landscape—evidenced through planning their community around the 3,300 acres.

Population:

975 (2016)

Currency:

$1 U.S. = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

911

Opening Hours:

Most stores are open seven days a week 9am to 6pm, or later. Bars and clubs tend to close around 2am.

Newspapers:

Sunriver Scene

The City

Although it is an unincorporated town in Deschutes County, Sunriver is essentially self-governed by the Sunriver Owners Association, with its police, fire, and emergency services provided by the special Sunriver Service District. Prior to its development, part of the land was the location of Camp Abbott, a military training facility for combat engineers during World War II. It was abandoned in June 1944, although its officers' club was retained after the land was purchased by developers John Gray and Donald McCallum in 1968. This would later be renovated and become the Great Hall of Sunriver Resort.

The vision Gray and McCallum had for the Sunriver community had a semi-shaky beginning. In 1974, John Gray sold Sunriver to the Connecticut Mutual Company. Later in 1978, 2,200 acres of the 5,500 acres initially purchased by Gray were sold the United States Forest Service for $2.8 million. The preservation of these lands has contributed to the natural beauty that surrounds Sunriver.

Located at the base of the Cascade Mountains, Sunriver is bordered to the east by the Deschutes River and surrounded on all other sides by the Deschutes National Forest. Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular with the thousands of visitors who come to Sunriver during the warm summer months. The lands of Sunriver that were developed were built with the outdoors in mind, and the community is home to over 35 miles of paved pedestrian and bike paths, 26 tennis courts, two parks, two swimming pools, and three golf courses.

Within close proximity to Bald Mountain, a popular ski destination, there is also plenty to do in the winter months. In addition to skiing and snowboarding on the mountain, travelers to Sunriver can also ice skate on the covered rink located at Sunriver Village, or take one of Sunriver Stables' sleigh rides through the snow-blanketed banks of the Deschutes River.

Do & See

Central Oregon is home to thousands of acres of natural landscape, from mountains and meadows to lakes and rivers. While there is a significant amount of residential development, Sunriver has very little commercial development outside of the few vital businesses, local eateries, and quaint shops. Most recreation centres around outdoor activity, but you could also make a day out of visiting the area's many breweries and wineries.

Dining

Although there are only a few dining options in Sunriver, there is a lot of variety. Take a trip to nearby Bend for more dining options. The options in Sunriver are nonetheless yummy!

Cafes

The number of cafes in Sunriver may be small, but that doesn't compromise the quality of food and service available for starting your day. Coffee and tea are a must in the cool Oregon atmosphere. Hearty dinners as well.