Editor’s note: Before you go, it’s a good idea to check the algae bloom advisory page for the presence of algae growth in natural pools that’s harmful to humans and pets when the temperatures soar.
If you’ve ever been to a swimming hole in Oregon that seems overrun with crowds, fear not — there are ways to avoid that scenario. Try swinging a midweek trip, when you are likely to see fewer people, or consider going to a more out-of-the way spot. Often that can mean just walking downstream to another location. Here are some great swimming holes to enjoy this summer.
Where to Cool Off In and Near Portland
Chill on the Willamette River at any of Portland’s urban beaches, which are family-friendly, easy to access and undergo water-quality monitoring each week in summer. Be sure to check the link above for algae hazards before you go.
Thanks in part to the Portland nonprofit Human Access Project, a new swimming dock at Cathedral Park under the St. Johns Bridge makes access to the banks of the Willamette River easier and safer, featuring swim ladders to get in and out of the water. On the Eastbank Esplanade near downtown Portland, dive into the Willamette from a popular dock during Duckworth Summer Wednesdays. Each week, join the party at the Duckworth Dock to float the river and hang out with a live DJ. Lifeguards on duty make sure everyone stays happy and safe.
Float in a tube or just splash around after exploring some of the 12 miles of old-growth forest trails at Oxbow Regional Park on the Sandy River, 45 minutes east of Portland, while Glenn Otto Community Park, 9 miles downstream in Troutdale, has lifeguards in the summer.
About 50 miles east of Portland — halfway between Cascade Locks and Hood River — you’ll find Viento State Park, a spot loved by windsurfers and a sublime place to swim. This sparkling gem is perfect for a Columbia River Gorge road-trip break, with a shaded picnic area and easy-access day use.
Quiet Dips Elsewhere in Oregon
Take the family out for a postcard-perfect day at Walton Lake, a pristine swimming hole and campground in the Ochoco National Forest, near Prineville. The Deschutes River through Bend gets quite crowded on hot days with tubers and swimmers, but Tumalo State Park, just 7 miles north, has a day-use area on a quieter section of the river. Walk upstream to find a spot to call your own.
In Southern Oregon near Roseburg, head to Cavitt Creek off of the Umpqua River to find a 7-foot-tall waterfall at Cavitt Creek Falls Recreation Site, an idyllic spot for a swim. Immerse yourself in the forest of fir, maple and oak trees here — about 11 miles south of Glide — and stay overnight at the campground for total serenity.
In Eastern Oregon, the marina at Wallowa Lake State Park in Joseph offers easy access to the pristine wilderness here. Bring your mask and snorkel; the lake is so crystal clear from snowmelt that you can see the fish swimming below the surface. Visit the developed swimming areas both at the head and foot of the lake. The sight of the snowcapped Wallowas on three sides of the lake will leave you breathless.
Be Safe and Considerate
No matter where you go, be mindful of others there to enjoy the water too. That means leaving behind no trash and always working to leave the site better than you found it. Your furry friends may love the water too, but consider leaving them home.
To stay safe in the water, it’s wise to follow a few guidelines. Take frequent breaks from cold water to warm up and prevent muscle cramping. Rocks can be slippery and make it easy to lose your footing on the banks and in the water. Once you’re on the water, beware of currents, changing winds and boat traffic.
Give children your full supervision and remember to wear a properly fitted life jacket for safety. Many lake areas have free life jacket loaner stations if you don’t have your own.
