• Big Eddy Swimming Hole on the Washougal River is a quiet spot near Portland and Vancouver
Big Eddy swimming hole, tucked along the Washougal River at Milepost 7.5, is a quiet, undeveloped spot just 30 minutes from Portland and Vancouver. The deep, clear eddy pool, wide pebbly beach, and soft sound of a small waterfall upstream make it one of the best natural swimming holes near Portland.
Free shoulder parking is available along NE Washougal River Road. A short 0.1-mile path leads from the roadside to the river. The first section is steep but levels out near the bottom.
At the beach, you’ll find space to spread a towel, stash a cooler, and slide into refreshing water. It’s a popular choice for families and anyone seeking a natural swimming spot near the city.
There are no restrooms, picnic tables, or trash cans. Please pack out everything and follow Leave No Trace to keep Big Eddy and the Washougal River clean.
Big Eddy Swimming
The swimming here is refreshing and straightforward. The river bends here, creating a calm eddy—a pool where the water slows and gathers, set apart from the primary current, with a deeper bowl in the middle.
Shallow lines the edge, so you can wade in and warm up first. On late summer days, the lower Washougal often hits around 70°F, which feels great after a short hike down. You’ll find a deep, clear pool in the center, gentle shallows along the beach for wading, a small waterfall just upstream for scenic vibes, and a pebbly bottom where water shoes help with grip.
However, be cautious when flows are high in spring or after storms. The current can pick up around the bend. Always enter feet-first, check depth, and keep an eye on the kids.
Big Eddy Rockhounding
Between swims, the gravel bars invite a slow treasure hunt. The Washougal River mixes volcanic and metamorphic stones, so color pops when the sun hits wet rock. Along gravel bars and in shallow areas, it is possible to find agates, jasper, carnelian, quartz, and even thunderegg-like nodules.
Pro tip: Scan in the morning light. Wet surfaces show color. Bring a small pouch and a lightweight scoop. Do you like finding small, shiny keepsakes while your friends swim? You’ll love this beach.
Big Eddy | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW)
Amenities: None (no restrooms, water, or trash service)
Activities: Swimming, wading, sunbathing, rockhounding
Distance from the parking: ~0.1 mile (steep at first, then flat)
Road access: Any passenger vehicle; roadside shoulder parking at Milepost 7.5
Day-use fees: None
Dogs: Allowed
Elevation: 500 ft (152 m)
Big Eddy is located:
- 22 miles east of Vancouver, WA
- 30 miles east of Portland
- 76 miles northeast of Salem.
Peaceful swimming hole on the Washougal River
Swimming hole rating: 4 out of 5
Body of Water: River
Water quality: Clear & transparent
Current: Slow to moderate in the eddy; stronger during high flows
Depth: Shallow edges; deep mid-pool (varies with season)
Beach: Wide pebbly/rocky shoreline
Water T° (summer): Typically mid–upper 60s°F to ~70°F in warm months
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Big Eddy Swimming Hole - Washougal River
- Take I-205 North toward Vancouver
- Exit onto WA-14 East toward Camas/Washougal
- Take the exit for Washougal River Rd/15th St and turn left (north) onto Washougal River Rd
- Continue on NE Washougal River Road for approximately 7.5 miles to Milepost 7.5
- Park along the shoulder near the unsigned pullouts; the short path (~0.1 mile) leads down to the river.