The Cascade Mountains and Willamette Valley offer a great summer swimming and diving opportunities in natural waters within reasonable proximity of one of the largest in Oregon - Salem metropolitan area.
The favorite summer destinations of the Salem residents are the Detroit Lake, North Santiam River, and Little North Fork Santiam River. There are more than 20 pools along the North Santiam, Little North Fork, and Detroit Lake area. Here you can swim, fish, picnic, hike, and camp. However, some spots are extremely popular and can be crowdy at hot summer weekends. There are less known but still amazing swimming holes you can explore in the Salem vicinity.
Before you check the list of the swimming spots that are listed below, be aware the swimming holes can be dangerous.
Because of some water located on the higher elevation and fed by water from the Cascade Mountains slopes, the swimming holes are likely going to be cold. The water level in the swimming holes changes year to year, strong currents can bring big rocks. Before you decide to jump, scout the spot and make a safe decision.
Below you will find a variety of swimming locations in the Salem vicinity.
Marion County
A rugged watershed of Little North Santiam River displays the geologic history of the area with numerous recreation areas and parks...
Popular large swimming hole with a broad beach, and wide rock ledges...
One of a series swimming holes along the Little North Fork...
Shallow water on the top of the waterfall and deep pool at the cliff base...
The scenic river landscape, excellent hiking, and refreshing swimming...
A large swimming area with sand and pebble beach, rock jumping opportunity...
Deep section of the river with rocky slopes and vertical cliffs...
A series of fantastic emerald pools, waterfalls, cliffs, grottoes, and the rock pillar...
A deep and calm pool in the narrow deep canyon beneath a suspension footbridge...
Plenty of water activities including swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating...
A waterfall cascades through the rocky cliff into the large plunge pool..
Linn County
Secluded swimming hole in the Santiam State Forest features the waterfall and deep pool...
Foster Lake – Lewis Creek Park
Sandy beach, great for families with kids, water sports. Crowded in a peak season.
Foster Lake - Sunnyside County Park
Sandy beach, great for families with kids, water sports, camping, picnic sites.
Beautiful swimming holes along the Quartzville Creek...
Yellowbottom – Quartzville Creek
A big natural pool with emerald cold water in the beautiful scenery...
Calapooia River - McKercher Park
Scenic river with unique rocky banks with a series of swimming holes...
Calapooia River - Pioneer Park
Tranquil waters of the river make this location great for Families with kids...
A lovely park features a covered bridge and swimming hole...
A historic covered bridge with clear warm water in the summer months...
Clackamas County
Cobble beach, beautiful lucid green and relatively warm water...
A secluded swimming spot with large rock ledges and deep pool...
A secluded deep swimming spot for experienced swimmers...
Features deep emerald swimming holes on the Clackamas River...
Secluded shallow swimming hole, friendly for families with small kids...
Plenty of activities including camping, picnicking, and swimming...
Disclaimer
Swimming holes associated with cliff jumping can be extremely dangerous. Variations in water levels, rocks that are not immediately visible or even shift in river bottoms due to strong currents can all lead to undesirable consequences. It is, therefore, very important to check current conditions and all associated risks and concerns. Make safe decisions!