The Cascade Mountains and Willamette Valley are defined with a patterned symmetry of freshwater lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and creeks, that offer great summer swimming and other water activities within reasonable proximity of one of the largest in Oregon - the Salem Metropolitan Area.
Favorite summer destinations of the Salem residents are the North and South Santiam Rivers and their tributaries, as well as the tributary of Willamette River. Numerous sites offer opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with activities such as swimming, boating, paddleboarding, fishing, picnicking, hiking, and camping. Some sites are extremely popular and can be crowded on hot summer weekends. There are a few less-known places in the Salem vicinity but they are still great to spend your time around water.
Because rivers and creeks are located at a higher elevation and fed by water from the Cascade Mountains, the swimming holes are likely going to be cold. Before you check the list of the swimming spots that are below, be aware that there are inherited dangers associated with swimming and other water activities. Please, make safe decisions.
Marion County
A waterfall cascades through the rocky cliff into the large plunge pool..
A deep and calm pool in the narrow deep canyon beneath a suspension footbridge...
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 park is extremely popular for its scenery, gorgeous waterfalls, and Ten Falls Trail...
Plenty of water activities including swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating...
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 large swimming area with sand and pebble beach, rock jumping opportunity...
The scenic river landscape, excellent hiking, and refreshing swimming...
Linn County
Secluded swimming hole in the Santiam State Forest features the waterfall and deep pool...
Calapooia River - Pioneer Park
Tranquil waters of the river make this location great for Families with kids...
Calapooia River - McKercher Park
Scenic river with unique rocky banks with a series of swimming holes...
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...
A lovely park features a covered bridge and swimming hole...
The site offers swimming, fishing, and rockhounding opportunities...
This is a great site to swim, fish, and rockhound...
Swimming under the bridge is relaxing and enjoyable...
A scenic swimming area at the Jordan Bridge...
Warm and calm water of the creek is ideal for summer swimming...
A beautiful place is popular among swimmers, hikers, campers, and anglers...
A great swimming, rockhounding, fishing, and picnicking destination...
Clackamas County
A secluded swimming spot with large rock ledges and deep pool...
A secluded deep swimming spot for experienced swimmers...
Cobble beach, beautiful lucid green and relatively warm water...
The site provides access to swimming, camping, picnicking, and hiking...
A perfect roadside swimming hole at the Pine Creek Bridge...
A beautiful river oasis provides opportunities for summer water activities...
A large swimming hole with deeps and shallows...
Secluded shallow swimming hole, friendly for families with small kids...
Plenty of activities including camping, picnicking, and swimming...
Features deep emerald swimming holes on the Clackamas 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!