The Portland metropolitan area was ranked America's 23rd largest urban area. Despite a large population of almost 2.4 million residents, you still can find a perfect place to have summer fun, play outdoors, and splash in one of many swimming spots near Portland.
Natural lakes, mountain streams, reservoirs, and rivers ensure that there is enough room for everyone. The great Columbia River Gorge, the Mount Hood, the Coast Range, and the North Oregon Coast host the best swimming holes within close proximity to the big city.
You can find a location for just about every water-based activity you enjoy. Apart from swimming, you can enjoy kayaking, tubing, windsurfing, and diving from the high rocks surrounding the natural swimming holes.
Some of the swimming spots have sandy beaches that make them an ideal destination for a day out for families with kids.
Clackamas County
This is a secluded swimming spot with large rock ledges and deep pool.
This area is a secluded deep swimming spot for experienced swimmers.
Three Bears is a cobble beach, beautiful lucid green and relatively warm water.
This site provides access to swimming, camping, picnicking, and hiking.
This site is a perfect roadside swimming hole at the Pine Creek Bridge.
A beautiful river oasis provides opportunities for summer water activities.
Wagon Wheel Park features a large swimming hole with deeps and shallows.
Remote location in the Mt Hood National Forest features deep emerald swimming holes.
Big Eddy Day Use Area – Clackamas River
The river here features strong currents downstream and upstream.
A crystal-clear natural mountain lake is hidden in the Mt Hood National Forest.
The river features two beautiful swimming spots that attract a steady flow of visitors.
High Rocks is a unique rocky bank with strong underwater currents and hidden underwater ledges.
This is a secluded shallow swimming hole, friendly for families with small kids.
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Multnomah, Washington, & Columbia Counties
This natural lake features a sandy beach and a roped-off swimming area, making it ideal for visitors of all ages.
Sandy beaches and cool, clean water provide a perfect setting for a variety of water activities.
The best place to enjoy the beauty of the river and practice numerous outdoor activities.
The place at the confluence of two rivers is known as a great spot to escape city heat.
The park is a popular swimming and water sport location on the Sandy River.
A natural wild area stretches along bends of the Sandy River.
The area is a popular summer destination.
An artificial reservoir is great for all types of the water activities.
Northern Oregon Coast & Oregon Coast Range
Wilson River at Smith Homestead
A scenic stretch of the river offer fishing, swimming, and picnicking opportunities.
Secluded swimming holes is a popular spot during the summer months.
This is a fantastic stretch of the Wilson River with shallow and deep pools, rapids, waterfall, and footbridge.
Youngs River Falls
The swimming hole at the scenic waterfall near Astoria is known for its warm, calm water during the summer months.
Located in the historic site, the lake offers swimming, boating and fishing opportunities.
The coastal river features numerous swimming holes and offers fishing opportunities.
Washington State
A waterfall and deep pools are popular among swimmers and cliff jumpers.
This is a beautiful waterfall with a deep pool at the waterfall base.
There are a few good swimming holes along the stretch of the East Fork of the Lewis River.
Disclaimer
Cliff jumping can be extremely dangerous. Variations in water levels, rocks that are not immediately visible, and shifts in river bottoms due to strong currents can lead to serious injury and even death. It is very important to check your swimming spot conditions and take all associated risks into account. Make safe decisions!