Can you play pickleball in Sunriver? You bet. Sunriver is renowned for ample outdoor activities, including pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the US. The community has added a large number of courts to keep up with demand.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is similar to tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It features a hard-surface court with in/out lines and a net. The net is slightly lower than a tennis court net, and the court is slightly smaller, too. In some cases, you will see pickleball lines indicated directly on a tennis court, but increasing popularity has led to more pickleball-specific courts.
Instead of tennis rackets and tennis balls, players use specifically designed pickleball paddles and plastic balls with air holes. The balls look similar to wiffle balls but harder. Scoring and rules of play are also slightly different from tennis. This video lays out all the details.
Learning to play is relatively easy, and many people are still learning about the sport, so playing can be pretty casual – but not all the time. Some players are experienced and looking for a challenge. You are better off sticking with players of a similar experience level.
If you or your children know how to play tennis, you will find playing pickleball an easy transition. Lessons are also available in Sunriver. We provide a section on Pickleball Lessons further into this article.
Where to Play Pickleball in Sunriver
Sunriver has two pickleball locations. Here is information on both locations, including their addresses, contact information, and facility descriptions:
Fort Rock Park
Address: 57525 East Cascade Road Sunriver, OR 97707
Reservations are required at least five days in advance.
● For online reservations, click here.
● For phone reservations, call 541-593-5707
The park has 18 pickleball courts: 15 sit above the picnic pavilion and 3 near the playground. Playing is typically allowed from May to September but can run longer if the weather permits.
There is a fee of $25 for the general public, but players with a Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) membership card or Recreation Plus card (used by guests who rent homes from SROA owners) play for free. Court times run 90 minutes.
Renting Pickleball Equipment in Sunriver
You can rent or buy equipment in Sunriver. The rentals can be found at the Fort Rock and Sage Spring locations. Here is information on each.
Fort Rock Park
Rentals are available at the park’s Fort Rock Pickleball Hut from mid-June to Labor Day. After Labor Day, rentals can be picked up at SHARC.
Buying Pickleball Equipment in Sunriver
You can purchase equipment in town from the following locations:
● Sunriver Resort’s Sage Springs Club & Spa: 17645 Tennis Village, 541-593-3714
● Sunriver Sports: 57100 Beaver Dr #16 and #13, 541-593-8369
● Camp Abbot Ace Hardware: 66820 Venture Ln, 541-593-8168
Can Children Play Pickleball?
Absolutely. The sport is fun for the entire family. The ideal starting age is 6 years old.
Pickleball Lessons
Both pickleball locations offer lessons. Here is information for each location.
Fort Rock Park
The park offers group or private lessons. At the time of this writing; the following pricing is for public players, and special discounts are available for some SROA members and valid vacationing guests.
● $90 for 1 player
● $55/person for 2 players
● $40/person for 3 players
● $35/person for 4 players
Pickleball Beyond Sunriver
While Sunriver is undoubtedly a pickleball paradise, the sport’s popularity extends beyond the confines of this charming town. Central Oregon offers a plethora of additional pickleball venues, ensuring that enthusiasts can enjoy the game throughout the region.
From Bend to Redmond and Prineville, pickleball courts are popping up in parks, community centers, and even private clubs. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s a pickleball community waiting to welcome you with open arms.
So, venture beyond Sunriver and explore the vast pickleball landscape of Central Oregon. You’ll discover new courts, meet fellow pickleball enthusiasts, and experience the thrill of the game in diverse settings. Get ready for a pickleball adventure that spans the entire region!
Cascara: Your Home for All Pickleball Playing
Looking for a place to stay in Sunriver? Cascara offers a wide range of home rentals for individuals, families, and groups, including SROA homes with private and lower-priced access to pickleball courts. You can also find homes with added treats like pools and jacuzzis for relaxing after a spirited day of play.
Whether it’s pickleball or any other outdoor and indoor activity in Sunriver, Cascara provides you with all the information you need to make the most of your stay. We even offer special deals and vacation packages to make your stay even more stress-free.
We’ll see you on the courts!
