If you want a change from hiking and skiing, golf should be next on your list of activities in Bend. Bend, Oregon, is known for outstanding views, beer, and never-ending outdoor adventures. You don’t need to push yourself too hard physically to have a full outdoors experience. If you want something a little more relaxing but still outdoors, letting you take in fresh air, golf is exactly what you need.
Whether you live in Bend or you’re just visiting, golf is one of the easiest outdoor activities to jump into. You don’t need any lessons, fancy gear, or past experience. Just show up and give it a try.
River’s Edge Golf Course is a great place to start. It’s close to downtown, a public golf course, and super welcoming for beginners, and the mountain views are hard to beat. Even if it’s your first time swinging a club, you’ll feel comfortable and supported.
Give it a try because you might end up loving it.
Looking for a New Way to Enjoy the Outdoors? Start Here
If you’ve tried hiking, biking, or kayaking, golf is a refreshing change of pace. You still get to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views, but without all the sweat and scrambling. It’s soothing, easy to learn, and a great way to spend a sunny day in Bend. Whether solo or with friends, golf offers a slower, more relaxed way to be outside while still being a lot of fun.
Sunshine, Movement, and a Chill Vibe
Golf lets you enjoy the beautiful weather while staying relaxed. You can ride a golf cart, have some drinks, and appreciate nature at your own pace. This is perfect for those who want to remain active without overexerting themselves, especially on a vacation.
No Experience? No Problem
With golf, you do not have to stress about performance. Unlike most outdoor sports, you can be a rookie at golf at any age. You have the freedom to progress gradually, stop whenever you are fatigued, and resume at your convenience. You can play among professional players and no one is going to judge you because people are focused on their own game, and everyone starts somewhere. If anything, experiences players are typically happy to help and give advice if you’re looking to improve.
Fun Options When You Want to Mix Things Up
Already explored the trails or floated the river? Golf adds variety to your outdoor plans. It’s easy to fit into your day and feels different from other typical Bend activities, without straying too far from home.
You don’t have to commit to a full 9 or 18 holes either. River’s Edge has a top tracer driving range which lets you see how your shots are performing or just to have fun hitting the ball. They also have indoor golf simulators if you want a different golf experience. This sets it apart from other courses as it provides fun, entertaining, low-commitment options, that aren’t traditional golf for all ages and skill levels.
You Don’t Need to Be Good to Have a Good Time
Let’s be honest. You don’t have to be good at golf to have fun playing it. Most people are just out there to enjoy the sunshine, laugh at a few bad shots, and spend time with friends. It’s one of the few outdoor activities where skill doesn’t matter much. You can play at your own level and adjust distances according to your skill level. That’s the beauty of starting with zero pressure.
No Skills Required – Just a Willingness to Try
Everyone starts somewhere, and it’s totally okay to miss the ball or hit a bad shot. In fact, that’s part of the fun. Golf is a game where you can laugh at mistakes and celebrate small wins.
At River’s Edge, the vibe is friendly and low-pressure. You’ll see all kinds of players out there. From first timers to casual weekend golfers.
Beginners Welcome at River’s Edge
Never played before? No worries. You can rent clubs, get tips from the staff, or even take a beginner lesson. The team here is used to helping new players and does a great job of making you feel comfortable. They give you some great tips and pointers which help you improve your game.
River’s Edge offers an 18-hole course but a typical option for beginners is to just play 9 holes as you get a feel for the course. You can let players play ahead of you if you want to take your and the community is very friendly if you are just beginning. You can also leave at any hole so there is no added pressure.
Laugh It Off and Keep Swinging
Golf is better when you don’t take it too seriously. Miss a shot? Take a mulligan and try again. The goal is to have fun, not chase a perfect score.
Bend Views Make Everything Better
One of the best things about golfing in Bend is the setting. You’re out in the fresh air with wide open views and peaceful surroundings. At River’s Edge Golf Course, you can see the river, nearby hills, and tall trees as you play. It’s a quiet, relaxed spot that still feels close to town. Even if you’re new to the game, being out there makes the experience feel easy and enjoyable from the start.
At River’s Edge, you’ll play with mountain peaks in the background, the Deschutes River nearby, and tall pines surrounding the fairways. The course winds through rolling hills and offers views you won’t get anywhere else in town.
A Scenic Break from the Usual
If you’re vacationing in Bend and looking for something a little different than the usual trail or brewery hop, a morning or afternoon on the course is a relaxing way to enjoy the natural beauty. Golfing with this view, good company (or by yourself), and the unique fairways of River’s Edge make anyone’s first time here and unforgettable experience.
Fun for Friends and Family of All Skill Levels
Golf is one of the few outdoor activities that works for all ages and doesn’t require anyone to be super sporty to enjoy it. You don’t need matching skill levels or any real experience—just a group of people looking to hang out and try something new. Parents, kids, and even grandparents can play together at their own pace. It’s a fun, low-key way to spend time outside without pressure or keeping score. Just enjoy the day.
No Need to Match Skill Levels
It allows everyone to be at the same skill level. Anyone can play together and enjoy the game at their own pace whether you are a parent, grandparent or child. It is always a fun time.
Easy to Fit Into a Day
You don’t need to commit a whole day to enjoy it. A quick 9-hole round or a fun morning on the driving range is all it takes. Pair it with lunch, a float, or a brewery visit, and you’ve got a perfect Bend day.
River’s Edge Makes It Easy to Jump In
Trying something new can be intimidating, but River’s Edge makes it simple. You don’t need to bring clubs or know the rules. Just book a time, show up, and the staff will help you get started.
The course is friendly to beginners, and there’s no pressure to be perfect. You can rent what you need, take a quick lesson if you’d like, or just give it a go. It’s a laid-back way to try something new in Bend.
Rent Clubs, Take a Lesson, or Just Go for It
No gear? No problem. You can rent everything you need right at the course. Want some help getting started? Book a beginner lesson with one of their friendly instructors. Or just jump in—there’s no wrong way to start.
A Welcoming Team for First-Timers
The staff at River’s Edge knows how to make new players feel at home. They’ll help you figure out where to start, offer tips if you want them, and make sure you feel relaxed and ready to go.
Good Views, Good Vibes
There’s no stress here. Whether you’re playing 9 holes or the full 18, it’s all about enjoying the moment, taking in the scenery, and trying something new. And who knows? You might even fall in love with the game.
Plan Your Day and Your Stay
Golf fits easily into a Bend vacation. Start your morning with a round at River’s Edge, then grab lunch, explore downtown, or float the Deschutes River in the afternoon.
If you’re staying overnight, the Waypoint Hotel is a great local option. It’s right off Highway 97 in Midtown Bend and offers free breakfast, local drinks on tap, and an on-site food truck which is perfect for recharging after your game.
Ready to try one of the best outdoor activities in Bend, Oregon? You don’t need to be experienced. You don’t even need your clubs. You just need a little curiosity and an hour or two to spare. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a local looking to try something new, River’s Edge Golf Course is a fun, welcoming place to start.
The course may be closed on different days during winter months so call in to double check availability beforehand.
Book your tee time today at River’s Edge and see why a round of golf just your new favorite way might be to enjoy the outdoors in Bend.