40 Stunning Oregon Swimming Spots Near Salem, Eugene, and Portland

Posted by The News Pulse July 06, 2025 Post a Comment

40 Refreshing Oregon Swimming Holes Near Salem, Eugene, and Portland

As summer temperatures rise, finding a refreshing escape becomes essential. Oregon offers countless opportunities to cool off in nature’s backyard, from serene lakes to rushing rivers and hidden swimming holes tucked away in forested canyons. Whether you're near Salem, Eugene, or Portland, there are plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a dip, picnic, or even a full day of adventure. Below is a comprehensive guide to over 40 top-rated swimming destinations across the region.

Swimming Spots Near Salem

North Santiam County Park
Just east of Salem along Highway 22, this grassy riverside retreat offers picnic tables and calm waters ideal for families. While parts of the park were affected by wildfires, the main swimming area remains open. Be cautious—the current can be strong farther from shore.
Little North Fork Park
Reopened in 2024 after wildfire closures, this turquoise-water gem provides a sandy beach and swimming access along the Little North Santiam River. A $5 parking fee applies, and while facilities are limited now, more amenities will be added in the future.
Bear Creek Park
Also reopened post-2020 fires, Bear Creek Park allows day-use access to scenic swimming areas. With picnic tables, restrooms, and a dog waste station, it's family-friendly. Parking is limited to around 30 spaces at $5 per vehicle.
Quartzville Creek
Known for its stunning pools and waterfalls, Quartzville Creek is perfect for camping and swimming. Two popular spots include a deep green pool in a narrow canyon (coordinates: 44.5767, -122.317083) and a waterfall ledge (44.588152, -122.359221). Dispersed camping is available along the corridor.
Spong's Landing County Park
Located just outside Keizer, Spong’s Landing offers a "beach" vibe with barbecue pits, horseshoe courts, and easy river access. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon swim.
Scotts Mills Falls
This Butte Creek location features a picturesque swimming hole at the base of the falls. There are also ADA-accessible restrooms, picnic areas, and a playground. Cliff jumping is possible but comes with risks.
Larwood Covered Bridge Wayside
A unique blend of history and recreation, this site on Crabtree Creek includes a covered bridge and swimming access. Fun fact: The Roaring River flows into Crabtree Creek here—a rare natural occurrence.
Foster Lake
Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Foster Lake has designated swimming areas at Lewis Creek and Sunnyside County Parks. Sandy beaches and roped-off zones make it safe for swimmers of all ages.
Detroit Lake
Nestled in the Cascades, Detroit Lake stretches nearly nine miles of shoreline with multiple day-use areas like Mongold and Detroit Flats. Blowout Creek also offers additional swimming holes nearby.
Breitenbush Road 46
Following the Breitenbush River, this road reopened in 2022 and leads to several river access points. One highlight is the Humbug Campground swimming hole, accessible via a short but steep trail.
Mount Jefferson Wilderness Lakes
For those up for a hike, Pamelia, Marion, and Duffy Lakes offer alpine beauty. Permits are required and available through Recreation.gov.
Santiam Pass Lakes
Big Lake and Suttle Lake are easily reached from Highways 22 and 20 and provide excellent swimming conditions amid lush forests.
McDowell Creek Falls County Park
Featuring an easy waterfall hike with swimming holes along the way, this Lebanon-area park is perfect for a quick splash after a short walk.
River Bend County Park
Located south of Sweet Home, this expansive park offers campsites, hiking trails, and direct access to the South Santiam River. It’s the closest major swimming destination to Salem.
Cascadia County Park
Surrounded by moss-covered trees, Cascadia has both shallow and deep swimming areas. A 0.75-mile trail leads to Soda Creek Falls for those seeking solitude.
Trout Creek / Yukwah / House Rock Campgrounds
These three campgrounds along Highway 20 offer similar experiences—rocky beaches, shaded pools, and access to the Santiam Wagon Road and Menagerie Wilderness.

Eugene Area Swimming Destinations

Triangle Lake Waterslides
Often referred to as Oregon’s natural waterpark, Triangle Lake features a 100-foot rockslide that’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Coastal Lakes: Cleawox, Woahink, Loon, Siltcoos
Each lake offers something different—from paddleboarding at Cleawox to the deeper waters of Woahink. Siltcoos, the largest, provides a refreshing swim surrounded by coastal forests.
Hayden Bridge County Boat Landing
Close to downtown Eugene, this McKenzie River spot is great for a quick post-work dip. Parking fills quickly, so arrive early.
Fall Creek Swimming Holes
Located just outside Lowell, Fall Creek offers numerous swimming areas ranging from deep pools to cascading waterfalls. Some areas remain closed due to fire damage, so check conditions before visiting.
Dorena Lake
East of Cottage Grove, Dorena Reservoir is a convenient escape with sandy beaches, docks, and boat rentals. Baker Bay is a popular area for水上 activities.
Dexter Reservoir
Just southeast of Eugene, Dexter offers swimming, boating, and disc golf. Lowell State Recreation Site on the north shore is especially family-friendly.
Row River (Wildwood Falls)
Known for cliff jumping and wild parties, Row River requires caution. Wildwood Falls is a hotspot, though safety should always come first in this fast-moving waterway.
Brice Creek
Fed by mountain runoff, Brice Creek stays icy blue year-round. Deep pools and flat rocks make it ideal for lounging, especially near Brice Creek Falls.
Odell and Crescent Lakes
Both lakes offer cold but invigorating swims alongside fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. Odell Lake Lodge and Crescent Resort provide food, supplies, and rentals.
Blue River and Cougar Reservoirs
About an hour from Eugene, these reservoirs are hotspots for boating and fishing. Check water levels before heading out, as they can drop during dry periods.
Salmon Creek Falls Day Use Area
Just outside Oakridge, this gorge-like waterfall plunge pool is small but spectacular. Vault toilets are available, but bring your own drinking water.
Fern Ridge Reservoir
Spanning over 9,000 acres, Fern Ridge is a haven for kayaking, birdwatching, and swimming. However, keep an eye out for algae advisories in warmer months.

Northern Willamette Valley & Portland Region Swimming Locations

Big Eddy Picnic Site
On the Clackamas River, Big Eddy offers shaded picnic sites and a scenic swimming hole. Rapids above and below the pool mean extra care is needed for young swimmers.
Clackamas River Swimming Spots
From Barton Park to Bonnie Lure and Milo McCarver State Park, the Clackamas River has many accessible swimming areas. Estacada Lake and North Fork Reservoir are also worth exploring.
Three Bears Recreation Site
Tucked along the Molalla River, Three Bears offers a quieter experience with shaded picnic areas and a large central pool ideal for kids.
Lewis and Clark State Recreation Site
Located where the Sandy River meets the Columbia, this scenic spot features boulders for climbing and a life jacket station for safer swimming in the powerful currents.

Additional Highlights Across the Region

Canyon Creek – Once a popular spot, still recovering from wildfire damage.
Elkhorn Valley – Closed since 2020 due to fire impacts.
Opal Creek – Famous for its pristine waters, currently not accessible.
Three Pools – Another Opal Creek area swimming hole under restoration.
Shady Cove – Previously a favored swimming destination, now closed.
Salmon Falls – Iconic cascade remains inaccessible.
Yellowbottom Recreation Site – Still closed along Quartzville Creek.
Humbug Campground – Accessible via a short trail off Breitenbush Road 46.

Whether you’re looking for a secluded mountain lake or a bustling community beach, Oregon delivers some of the most beautiful freshwater escapes in the Pacific Northwest. Remember to practice safety, respect closures, and leave no trace when enjoying these natural treasures.