Top 11 Best Swimming Holes near Portland (tried and tested)

I love this popular spot which is located near Portland, and although it can take up to 2 hours to drive depending on traffic, I honestly think it’s well worth it. Located at the base of Opal Creek, this 25-foot deep blue swimming hole is ideal for just taking a relaxing swim or jumping from the rock ledges above (just remember to be careful, accidents do happen!)

You will need to park up and walk just over 3 miles down a dirt track, which only makes you want to get into the water even quicker. I think, like many others its up there as being the state’s most picturesque natural place to swim.

Located on the Clackamas River, High Rocks is an adventure playground for children and adults. Easy to find due to its proximity to Interstate 205, it can become crowded in the summer months, but still worth a visit to swim and for the more adventurous jumping from the rocky cliffs.

I also recommend picnicking and sunbathing here as well as it’s such a tranquil spot. Open all year round and only 17 miles from Portland City, it is a favorite among city dwellers; ample parking, picnic sites, drinking water, and restrooms are all provided, and the park is free of charge.

Note: Please be careful if you are going to jump from the cliffs, they are often slippery, and there have been accidents in the past; there is now a lifeguard presence, but only during the summer months.

Naked Falls has numerous points for swimming and cliff jumping on summer days; the crisp freshwater will cool you down the instant you get in.

Nobody is really sure why it’s called Naked Falls; it just is. With shaded picnic areas, it is a family getaway for the day. The flat rocks are also perfect for sunbathing and topping up that tan.

A short walk from the parking area, although short, it can be a bit steep for some; the area is beautiful and relaxing, although at the height of summer can be a bit busy for some.

Sauvie Island is huge, approximately the same size as Manhattan. It is one of the biggest river islands in the United States and has so much to offer for children and adults alike.

Sitting beside the Columbia River and the Willamette River and only 10 miles from downtown Portland it is a perfect place to swim on a hot summer’s day.

I suggest hiking and casual walks along the beach as a few alternatives to swimming, but that’s the main reason people come here. The water is nice and even in the summer.

With the island being so big, you can always find a secluded spot for swimming with kids and enjoying a picnic. Picturesque, safe, and very child-friendly, Sauvie Island is the perfect place to cool off and relax.

The lake is a favourite for many people wishing to take a refreshing dip in its cool, deep waters, but many people do not know it was man-made in the 70s.

The lake is split into two sections, one for swimming and one for motorized vessels. In the latter part, you can really open up the boat and have no fear of swimmers.

The area around the lake is not just popular with swimmers and boating enthusiasts, and bird watching is very popular, cycling, and hiking. Unfortunately, overnight camping is prohibited to preserve the local ecology.

Picnic areas are provided for the family to quench their hunger and thirst after a day of adventure. Very much a place for the entire family to spend the day.

Moulton Falls is the big dog for swimming holes. This Regional Park is 387 acres and boasts many attractions for all abilities and ages.

Many people come here for hiking or simply sunbathing out in the beautiful natural setting.

One of its main attractions is its many swimming holes and in the summer months it can get quite crowded. Only 1-hour drive from Portland, it is ideal for city dwellers to escape the heat.

Often billed as the calmest part of any river in the Pacific Northwest, it is ideal for swimming and cooling off from the summer heat.

If like-minded people have the same idea as you, head further downstream to the mile 15 marker, which is rarely crowded.

For a bit more adventure, head to the Footbridge area, where there are jumps of 10 feet into the fresh water. This is definitely a place to bring the kids and feel safe with them in the water; cool, calm, and fairly shallow. You can relax in the shade knowing the daily is fine.

This 154-acre park is an excellent place to escape from the city, only a 45-drive it is truly a stunning area, family-friendly, with large grassy areas for the kids to play and to have a picnic by the river.

The park also boasts many swimming holes to keep you fresh on a summer’s day. The Larch area of the park has a small beach and a fantastic swimming spot.

It’s not too deep, which is great for children and adults alike. The Ponderosa area of the park also has an incredible place to swim but is deeper and faster flowing, not ideal for children but fine for adults.

A favourite with kids, this large open space with access to the cool waters of the Hood is constantly changing. This is a community-funded project, and every year, it just gets better and better.

And with the new changes come new amenities, including picnic tables, drinking fountains, improved restrooms, a children’s play area, and a viewing platform where you can relax and just watch the river slowly go by.

Certainly not just a favourite spot for locals, people come from miles around to swim in a secure environment.

With 3 miles of accessible shoreline, even on a busy summer day, you can always find a peaceful spot to cool off. Just don’t go too far east. It has one of Oregon’s 2 clothing-optional beaches; it is hidden away, though.

Before or after a swim, you can take a flat hike through the shading of the trees, which are teeming with Blacktail deer and plant life, which grows very high and very fast.

It is also a bird lover’s paradise, and the oak trees are home to hundreds of species. A very tranquil place. Dogs are not allowed, but everybody else is. Bring the family for a pleasant, safe day out.

Salmon River is a naturally stunning area and only about one hour’s drive from Portland City, perfect for a hot summer’s day.

Swimming here should be mandatory, the water is fresh and cool, and the river meanders through the valley with the trees lining each, which also gives you a break from the heat.

Other than swimming, there are hiking trails amongst the tall trees, and kayaking is also a perfect way to enjoy the river. There are also several campsites in the area if you wish to stay longer in this amazing setting.