The Best Swimming Holes Near Portland

Nothing is more calming and peaceful during the heat of summer than swimming in cool, pure water. Fortunately for Portlanders, there are numerous surrounding rivers and lakes where they can take a cool dip, and many of them are just a short drive from the scorching city center. 

Before visiting these well-liked swimming holes close to Portland, Oregon, be sure to review the safety recommendations for outdoor swimming. Now, on to the swimming holes!

Opal Creek Pool

Opal creek pool is one of the most well-liked destinations close to Portland, even though traveling there from the city could take up to two hours depending on traffic. This 25-foot-deep dark blue swimming hole is situated at the base of Opal Creek and is perfect for having a leisurely dip. You can even leap from the granite ledges above!

You’ll have to park and walk a little more than three miles down a dirt road, which only makes your refreshing swim that much sweeter. Some claim that it is the most gorgeous swimming spot in the entire state.

Naked Falls

On hot summer days, Naked Falls offers many locations for swimming and cliff diving. The calm, freshwater will instantly cool you off. No one knows the origins of the name Naked Falls, but we can venture a guess!

Despite the cheeky name, visitors are required to wear swimwear during their stay. The flat rocks are ideal for soaking up Vitamin D, and there are covered picnic places, making it a great day trip destination for families. 

The location is lovely and calm, though at the peak of the season it can be a bit crowded. As a bonus, it is only a short distance from the parking lot.

High Rocks Park

High Rocks is an exploration playground for both kids and adults that is situated on the Clackamas River. Due to its accessibility from Interstate 205, it can get busy in the summertime but is still worth visiting. It’s great for a swim, and those more daring can leap off the jagged cliffs. 

Amongst its many attractions are picnicking and sunbathing. The park is popular with city people and is open all year round. It is only 17 miles from Portland and has plenty of parking, recreation areas, potable water, and bathrooms.

Please use caution if you want to jump off the cliffs because they are frequently slick and there have been mishaps in the past. Lifeguards are now present, but only throughout the summer.

Henry Hagg Lake

Are you looking for a place that your entire family can enjoy during a humid Portland day? Look no further than Henry Hagg Lake. Many people enjoy the lake’s calm, deep waters for a pleasant swim, but few are aware that it was created by humans in the 1970s. 

The lake is divided into two portions, one for swimming and one for powered vehicles. Aside from swimmers and boaters, the region around the lake is particularly popular for bird watchers, cyclists, and hikers. 

Sadly, overnight camping is prohibited, in an effort to protect the local environment. After a day of action, picnic spaces are available for the family to satisfy their appetite and thirst. What a great option for enjoying the day with the whole family!

Sauvie Island

The size of Sauvie Island is comparable to that of Manhattan. It is one of the largest river islands in the country and offers both kids and adults a ton of fun things to do. It is the ideal place to sunbathe on a warm summer afternoon because it is located next to the Columbia River and the Willamette River and is only 10 miles from downtown Portland. 

There are few options for swimming in this area; instead, most visitors choose to go hiking or take leisurely strolls along the beach. However, given the size of the island, you can still find a quiet location for a picnic and swimming with children. Sauvie Island is a favorite among summertime visitors; it’s beautiful, secure, and highly family-friendly.

Moulton Falls

Yacolt is close to the Moulton Falls Regional Park in Clark County. The Lewis River is very lovely along this section, making the hike incredibly enjoyable. Moulton Falls is spectacular year-round, but summer is when it really shines!

Moulton Falls is the big dog of swimming holes. This 387-acre regional park has a variety of activities for people of all ages and skill levels. Many visitors come here to go trekking or just to relax outside and sunbathe. 

Its numerous swimming holes, which may get rather busy in the summer, are one of its main draws. It is the perfect place for city folk to escape the scorching sun, and it is only one hour from Portland.

Summary of the Best Swimming Holes Near Portland

Here are the Best Swimming Holes Near Portland:

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Thomas Goebel