Sandy River Swimming | Portland Metro Area

There is nothing more healing our mind and soul than moments with nature. When planning for weekend summer adventures, choose a destination that will offer you the best recreation while keeping you in touch with wild nature. One such destination near Portland is the lower section of the undammed Sandy River, a tributary of the Columbia River. Originating on Mount Hood, the 56-mile river is carrying snow and glacier melt that is why the water is always cold even at the peak of the summer season.

Two segments of the river are designated as National Wild and Scenic: 12.4 miles of the upper part of the river and 12.5 miles of the lower segment between Dodge Park and Dabney Park.

Activities on the upper river include hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.

Recreation sites and parks along the lower river with sandy beaches and cold clean water provide opportunities for visitors to practice outdoor activities or just relax and enjoy the beauty of wild nature. Activities you can do here include, but are not limited to swimming, tubing, boating, paddle boarding, fishing, and sunbathing.

The river is monitored on monthly basis for any contamination.