As summer continues, it’s important to identify the best ways to stay cool.
A reigning champion for beating the heat? Packing the cooler, blowing up the inner tubes and spending a day at a swimming hole.
Check out this roster of refreshing spots from creeks to rivers to lakes to take a dip and beat the heat.
Note: On hot days, it is suggested people arrive at popular swimming holes early — perhaps before 10 a.m. — to ensure they get a parking spot.
Closer to Salem
North Santiam County Park
Just east of Salem from Highway 22, there's a wonderful little grassy spot along the North Santiam River with picnic tables and slow spots in the cool water where people can hang out.
The park was somewhat impacted by the Labor Day Fires and parts of the park remain closed, but the riverside hangout, which does get popular on summer days, is open.
Beware that while there is slow water close to shore, and places for kids to splash around, the current is swift if you get too far out and can sweep small children downstream.
Directions: From Salem, follow Highway 22 east and follow signs North Santiam County Park past Mehama and before Mill City.
Little North Fork Park
This once-popular park along the Little North Santiam River reopened for the first time since 2020 Labor Day Fires this spring. It offers a swimming hole and sandy beach in a river famous for its turquoise water. Parking is $5.
There is still burned forest surrounding the area — and the only access visitors have is to the parking lot and a trail to the river. As time goes on, more pedestrian access will be allowed. Crews will add picnic tables, trash cans and a dog waste station.
Bear Creek Park
Another of the parks that have reopened in the burned Little North Santiam Canyon, Bear Creek Park has access to swimming spots and is open for day-use. Previously a campground, it will only be day-use this year before new campsites are installed next year.
The site has picnic tables, trash cans and a dog waste station to the park. There is also a restroom. The park has 20 to 30 parking spots and cost $5 to park.
Little North Santiam River swimming holes
With North Fork Road open this year, east of Salem, there are some places people can park along the road and access the river to swim and splash. Parking on the road is denoted by color — the red lines mean you can't park there. White lines mean you generally can. However, make sure you're not trespassing through private property to reach the river.
More:Restoring Opal Creek: Popular area still closed, but what comes next for beloved burned forest, popular recreation area?
Quartzville Creek
There are so many beautiful swimming holes on this creek, which is protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, that it’s difficult to know where to start.
A bit of a drive from Salem, a trip to Quartzville, a tributary of the South Santiam River northeast of Sweet Home, is best experienced by camping. There are numerous dispersed campsites along Quartzville Recreation Corridor and Back Country Byway along with regular sites at Yellowbottom and Old Miner’s Meadow Campground.
There are plenty of crowds along the corridor but also plenty of camping spots and even more swimming holes. There’s enough space for everyone.
Two favorite swimming holes are a deep green pool in a narrow canyon (coordinates: 44.5767, -122.317083) and a deep ledge among waterfalls (44.588152, -122.359221). They can both be reached from pullouts along the roadway.
Directions: The Quartzville corridor begins near Marion Forks and ends near Green Peter Reservoir near Sweet Home. Either side works and is about the same distance from Salem.
River Bend County Park
The closest swimming hole to Salem in the South Santiam corridor, River Bend County Park offers 85 campsites and family-friendly beach access to swimming. This park is over 90 acres and features both hiking trails and picnic areas.
Directions: From Sweet Home, follow Highway 20 for 9 miles, and turn left at signs.
Spong's Landing County Park
Located just off the Willamette river, this county park in Keizer is great for a family "beach" day. From BBQ tables to horseshoe rings and of course, a lush body of water to swim around in, Spong's Landing is blanketed in excellent hot-day activities for everyone.
Directions: Spong's Landing is seven miles from Salem. Head north on Windsor Island Rd., and turn left onto Naples St., following signage to Spong's Landing.
Scotts Mills Falls
Located on Butte Creek, Scotts Mills has a great swimming pool at the base of the falls as well as picnic areas, Americans with Disabilities Act accessible restrooms and a playground. The warm water is perfect for wading, swimming and floating. There are rocks that some choose to jump off of near the falls, but it's dangerous, and jumping at Scotts Mills is at your own risk and should be practiced with extreme caution. Day-use only.
Directions: Twenty two miles northeast of Salem, head toward Silverton on state Highway 213 and continue to the intersection of Mt. Angel Scotts Mills Road NE. Turn right and follow signage to the falls.
Big Eddy Picnic Site
Shaded, right on the water and perfect for groups, the Big Eddy picnic area and swimming hole is worth the hour and a half drive from Salem. Located on the Clackamas River, this spot boasts picnic sites, vault toilets and gorgeous maple trees lining the river.
With a section of rapids both above and below the swimming pool, caution is recommended for new or younger swimmers in this section.
Directions: From Estacata, follow state Highway 224 east for 13 miles to the trailhead on the right.
Foster Lake
Branching off of the South Santiam River, this lake and dam help regulate the flow of water and generate power in the area, but are also great for swimming. Visit the two designated parks, Lewis Creek and Sunnyside County, for roped-off swimming areas and sandy beaches.
Directions: From Sweet Home, head 4 miles northeast on Highway 20. The lake will be on your right.
Detroit Lake
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, this crystalline lake has something for everyone in its 9-mile shoreline and long list of water activities. Several day use areas are available around the lake, with roped off swimming areas and facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
Branching off the lake is Blowout Creek, a deep emerald green swimming pool with a rope swing and bridge to jump off, although water levels can vary and bridge jumpers are at their own risk.
Directions: Fifty miles east of Salem, take state Highway 22 east from the I-5 exit in Salem. Continue on this road until you reach the town of Detroit on the east side of the lake.
Cascadia State Park
This beautiful campground sits amid the mossy forest that highlights the South Santiam River. Two dozen campsites can be found here, along with several hiking trails and a swimming hole great for families.
There is a sandy beach and shallow water, along with deeper holes. A short trail leads down to the river from the day-use parking area. A more solitude-filled cool down involves following a 0.75-mile trail to Soda Creek Falls.
Directions: From Sweet Home, follow Highway 20 for 14 miles and turn left at signs. Follow a short trail to the swimming hole beach. Coordinates: 44.398501, -122.477541.
Trout Creek/Yukwah/House Rock campgrounds
These three small campgrounds are close to each other along Highway 20 and feature similar experiences. Trout Creek, Yukwah and House Rock have 23, 19 and 17 campsites, respectively, along with day-use parking. All three have excellent trails and access to the Santiam Wagon Road and Menagerie Wilderness.
They also feature swimming holes with rocky beaches and deeper pools shaded by the lush, dense canyon forest characteristic of the South Santiam.
Directions: From Sweet Home, follow Highway 20 east for 21 miles to Trout Creek, 22 miles to Yukwah and 27 miles to Forest Service Road 2044 for House Rock.
Lewis and Clark State Recreation Site
Just outside Portland, this scenic day use area is open year-round and worth the hourlong drive from Salem to cool off. Situated where the mouth of the Sandy River meets the massive Columbia River, this grassy park offers picnic areas, walking trails and even a few popular boulders for rock climbing just a few steps away from a gorgeous swimming hole.
Alcohol is not allowed on this beach. There is also a life jacket station available on the river's edge, and it's recommended all swimmers wear one due to the strong currents and undertows of the Columbia.
Directions: From Salem, head north on I-5 and stay to the right to merge on to I-84. Take exit 18 toward Lewis and Clark State Park.
Three Bears Recreation Site
This day-use section off the Molalla River Corridor provides a more intimate spot, with picnic areas shaded away from one another and a huge range of river access as the park runs right along the shoreline. Albeit shallow outside of one large pool, this is a great spot for younger children and parties who prefer a more private experience.
Three Bears offers several tent campsites as well with fire rings and barbecues to match. Take a dip in this tributary of the Willamette River and soak in the beauty of the corridor. There is no cell service at this location.
Directions: Thirty eight miles from Salem, this swimming spot is just a quick drive away. Head east on state Highway 213 through Silverton and exit toward Scotts Mills. Follow signage to Molalla Forest Road, and the parking lot will be on your left.
Clackamas River swimming spots
There are a number of great swimming holes along the Clackamas River, even though it is a long drive from Salem. Barton Park has some good ones and is a popular spot to launch a tube. Upstream, Bonnie Lure State Recreation Area and Milo McCarver State Park also have nice places to access the water.
In addition, there are reservoir’s including Estacada Lake and North Fork Reservoir.
Above Estacada, the Riverside Fire burned many of the trees people used to bask under, but there are still nice destinations to be had, even if the water is quite a bit cooler.
Directions: From Portland, follow Highway 224 out toward the many different parks upstream and downstream of Estacada.
Mount Jefferson Wilderness lakes
This is more of a hike than finding a swimming hole, but a trek through shady old-growth forest to an alpine lake doesn't found bad.
Get one of a limited number of permist from Recreation.gov to hike or camp at Pamelia Lake, Marion Lake or Duffy Lake, a trio of alpine pools with trailheads you can reach from Highway 22 east of Detroit.
Santiam Pass lakes
There are a number of lakes on Santiam Pass including Big Lake and Suttle Lake, which are both fairly easy to reach from Highway 22/20.
McDowell Creek Falls County Park
This small park outside Lebanon features an easy waterfall hike with swimming holes to be had along the way and then some additional swimming holes near the parking lot, just downstream of the trail. The water is cool but not frigid, making it a fun place for a short hike followed by a celebratory splash down.
Breitenbush Road 46
This roadway just north of Detroit, which follows the emerald waters of the Breitenbush River, reopened in 2022 after damage from the Labor Day Fires. Those who visit will find plenty of places along the road to reach the river, but beware of downed trees. One iconic swimming hole is at Humbug Campgrounds, at the bottom of a short but steep trail.
The road ends after 11 miles, but you can continue on foot or bike to more swimming holes.
Closer to Eugene
Triangle Lake waterslides
Triangle Lake and the waterslides below are as close as you can get to an organic waterpark. Featuring a 100-foot natural rockslide at the day-use area just below the lake, this 50 minute drive from Eugene is tough to beat.
Also known as Lake Creek Falls, this location is incredibly popular and often packed. The waterslides are great for a half-day during the week or early risers on the weekend. Practice extreme caution in this area as the water moves quickly, especially when cliff jumping or using available rope swings.
Directions: Drive west on Highway 36 and look for the waterslides parking lot about a half mile past Triangle Lake. Day use areas for the lake can be found in several spots on the drive in, as well as boating access.
Fern Ridge Reservoir
Spread over 9,000 acres, Fern Ridge is a paradise for water recreation of all kinds in the summer. Wildlife watching, kayaking and paddle boating are just a few of the popular activities taking place on this reservoir just outside of Veneta.
Clocking in as the largest lake in the Willamette Valley and home of the Eugene Yacht Club, swimmers can enjoy a multitude of easy beach access areas and watch sailors, speed boaters and canoers race across the water from the comfort of your floatie in this huge pool.
Directions: Heading west out of Eugene on state Highway 126, you will see the reservoir on your right just 15 minutes outside of the city.
Coastal Lakes: Cleawox, Woahink, Loon, Siltcoos
Craving a beach day but not a fan of swimming in the ocean? Coastal lakes provide the best of both worlds with fresh water recreation only a few minutes away from the Pacific. Just over an hour drive from Eugene, there are several lakes available off the coast for swimming, boating and more.
Siltcoos, the largest coastal lake in Oregon, is fed by runoff and promises a refreshing dip in emerald waters, where the much smaller Loon Lake just south offers one designated swimming area and a more intimate experience. Cleawox Lake is adjacent to Jessie Honeyman Memorial State Park and is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking on particularly still waters. Woahink, across the street from Cleawox, is one of the deepest natural coastal lakes in the state, reaching its max at just over 73 feet deep.
Directions: Head west from Eugene on state Highway 126 toward Florence. At the main junction of U.S. Highway 101 in Florence, turn left for all four coastal lakes. Look for signage for individual lake access.
Hayden BridgeCounty Boat Landing
One of the closest swimming spots to Eugene, this day use park is incredibly popular for after-work dips due to its proximity to the city. Dive into the often chilly McKenzie River as it travels through Springfield, just a few minutes drive from downtown Eugene.
Early arrival is a must on hot days and weekends, as accessible parking fills up quickly and the rocky beach area is small.
Directions: An unmarked hole, this swimming spot is across the street from the Riverview Market and can be accessed via a dirt trail on the north side of the road, or by using the boat launch on the west side of the bridge. Park at your own risk, as the area is unmonitored, and avoid parking in tow-away zones (marked by signs).
Fall Creek
The long stretch of swimming holes tucked into the small canyons of Fall Creek are perfect for a getaway to jump in the water or soak in a personal waterfall. The largest swimming hole is Bedrock Campground. With both deep pools and shallow, sandy beaches, this is a great spot for families.
Exposed to the sun by fires in recent years, sunscreen is a must for this area. Bring your own drinking water and pack an umbrella if you want guaranteed breaks from the sun.
Directions: Just under 20 miles from Eugene, this hotspot of swimming holes is just outside of Lowell. From Lowell-Jasper Road, turn right at Unity Bridge and continue on to Fall Creek Road (Forest Road 18). Once past the reservoir, there are dozens of unmarked turnouts along this road that lead to hidden river spots, or opt for a designated swimming area like Bedrock or Big Pool.
Dorena Lake
Also known as Dorena Reservoir, this body of water is just east of Cottage Grove, about 30 minutes from downtown Eugene, making it easily accessible for quick trips. Grassy and sandy beaches both make for great sunbathing, as well as docks for an easy jump in.
There are several day use areas at the lake, with most featuring vault toilets and picnic areas. Looking for a water ride? Check out Baker Bay for boat rentals and explore the lake by vessel.
Directions: Head south on I-5 to Cottage Grove and turn left at the light. Continue east for 6 miles on Row River Road, and the reservoir will be on your left.
Dexter Reservoir
Just 16 miles southeast of Eugene, Dexter Reservoir is great for sunbathing, swimming and boating. Dexter State Recreation Site is on the western edge of the lake and offers barbecues, picnic areas and even an 18-hole disc golf course nestled in the shade of the trees.
On the north side is the Lowell State Recreation Site, which has designated swimming areas and a playground for kids. Watch boaters race from the shore or catch a sunset on the beach at this scenic spot.
Directions: Head east on state Highway 58 from Eugene. Dexter Reservoir will be on your left in about 18 miles – cross the covered bridge toward Lowell in order to access most day use areas.
Row River (Wildwood Falls)
Just outside Cottage Grove, the Row River is popular with locals and travelers alike for its multitude of swimming holes and cliff jumping opportunities. Look for deep holes or cars parked along the side of the road for a hint at a hidden pool, or head to the famous Wildwood Falls and battle the crowds for a shot at the water.
Swift currents, cold water and a reputation for partying has led to numerous drowning deaths in this area. Swim safely and practice extreme caution.
Directions: Travel east on Row River Road, and the river will appear shortly after the road leaves Dorena Lake behind. To reach Wildwood Falls, turn left at the junction onto Layng Creek Road, and the falls will be on your right.
Brice Creek
Crisp but refreshing, this creek is fed by mountain runoff and maintains its icy blue color all year long. About an hour away from Eugene, the trails and swimming holes available make for a great day trip, but early arrival is suggested to guarantee parking on weekends.
A natural corridor created by rocky ledges, the whole creek boasts great cliff jumping and deep pools to help cool off even on the hottest days. Brice Creek Falls, about 0.3 miles from the Cedar Creek Campground parking lot, is a deep pool popular for floating or lounging on the flat rocks by the water.
Directions: From Cottage Grove, travel east on Row River Road for 19 miles and stay right at the junction to continue on Brice Creek Road 2470. Continue along this road and look for safe parking pullouts, trails or designated parking.
Odell and Crescent lakes
The deep blue waters of these mountain lakes are best known for sailing, fishing and windsurfing, but are also great spots to go swimming for those who can brave chillier waters. Dotted with campsites and day use areas, both lakes are great for a weekend away or a full day on the water.
Odell Lake Lodge and Resort and Crescent Lake Resort both offer recreation supplies as well as food, drinks and restrooms. Grab a snack before heading out in a rental boat with your fishing poles and the family.
Directions: Traveling east on state Highway 58, several campsites and day-use areas for Odell Lake will be on your right in about 75 miles. Crescent Lake can be found a few miles further down the road, 82 miles from Eugene.
Blue River and Cougar reservoirs
Popular for fishing, boating and swimming in the summer, these reservoirs are only about an hour drive from Eugene and perfect for a day trip. Day use areas, boat launches and picnic areas are spread across both reservoirs, providing a variety of recreation options and lots of spots to pull over and jump in.
Both reservoirs can reach low levels toward late summer or during dry spells. Check water level status online prior to making the trip to ensure the reservoir is ready for you.
Directions: Both reservoirs can be found driving east on state Highway 126 from Eugene. Blue River Reservoir, about 45 miles away, is located on Forest Road 15, turning left off the highway and continuing up to the day use area. Cougar Reservoir is a few miles further up Highway 126, turning right at Aufderheide Drive, right again at the fork in the road and continuing up to the reservoir.
Salmon Creek Falls Day UseArea
This beautiful spot is located just outside of Oakridge and showcases Salmon Creek Falls, a roaring waterfall with a deep blue pool at the bottom. Reminiscent of a miniature gorge, the water is crisp, cold and offers several nooks and crannies in the bedrock for cooling off.
Smaller than most, the Salmon Creek Falls Campground only has 14 sites, and day use parking can fill up quickly on hot days. Vault toilets are available on site, but there is no potable water, so be sure to bring your own gallons.
Directions: Coming from Eugene, it is about an hour drive to the falls. Take a left at the only stoplight in the town of Oakridge and turn right at the four-way intersection onto East First Street, which will turn into Forest Road 24. Salmon Creek Falls will be on your right in 3.7 miles.
Do you know how to identify toxic algae blooms in water? The best rule of thumb for murky, dirty or muddy waters: when in doubt, stay out.
Skyla Patton is an outdoor reporter and multimedia storyteller. She can be reached at spatton@gannett.com and on Twitter @ganjajournalist.
Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 16 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. To support his work, subscribe to the Statesman Journal. Urness is the author of “Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon” and “Hiking Southern Oregon.” He can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.
