The largest state park, Silver Falls is known for its scenic landscape and ten gorgeous waterfalls that are connected by the 8.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls. The park is popular among visitors who eager to explore all corners of the lush forest and canyons as well as to take memorable photos of the beautiful waterfalls.
During the summer heat, after hiking and exploring, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in a designated swimming spot in the South Falls Day Use Area. Swimming is not supervised.
A swimming hole was formed by a small dam across the Silver Creek.
The swimming area is not deep, no more than two to three feet in some places. The water is cool and the bottom is sandy. The beach along the swimming area is made up of asphalt, so it is hard to walk barefoot. An extended grassy picnic area is adjusted.
Picnic shelters and tables, a playground, a volleyball net, a horseshoe pit, an off-leash area for dogs are located nearby.
Upper North Falls and Double Falls are the only waterfalls with allowed access to the water. Other waterfalls are closed to public access from 300 feet above and below the falls.
Silver Falls State Park Swimming Hole | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Location: Silver Falls State Park
Amenities: Picnic areas, playground, volleyball net, horseshoe pit, conference center, nature store, café, ADA restrooms
Activities: Swimming, hiking, nature viewing, picnicking, camping
Distance from the parking: Vary
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes or Parking Permit for State Parks
Popularity: High
Accommodations: Tent and RV camps, rustic log cabins, horse camp
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Salem
Elevation: 1,230 ft (375 m)
Silver Falls State Park Swimming Hole is located:
- 5.7 miles southeast of Mill City
- 38 miles east of Salem
- 84 miles southeast of Portland
- 84 miles northeast of Eugene.
Swimming hole rating: 3 out of 5
Body of Water: Creek
Water quality: Transparent
Current: Light
Depth: Shallow
Beach: Asphalt, grass
Water T° (summer): Cool
Video
Adventures Nearby
Directions to South Falls Parking
From I-5,
- Take exit 253 onto OR-22 toward Detroit and Bend
- Follow OR-22 to exit 7 and then take exit 7 for OR-214 toward Silver Falls
- Turn left onto OR-214 N/Silver Falls Hwy SE and follow 16.5 miles to the destination
- Follow Silver Falls Tour Route.
Phone: 503-873-8681 x 31