As the summer heat has begun escalating, we are all looking for ways to cool down and beat the summer heat. Cooling down at nature's swimming spots are among the best ways to accomplish this goal and at the same time have an immense amount of fun with family and friends. Oregon offers a great number of outdoor recreational dipping and swimming places. Here are the best swimming holes of Oregon for you to chose from.

From majestic waterfalls and natural water slides to bubbling river fronts, from serene lakes to bustling water reservoirs, Oregon boasts of various stunning waterfronts ideal for whatever your heart desires, wholehearted summer fun or a relaxing day out.

Each of the swimming holes mentioned here is known for their pristine clear emerald waters, breathtakingly scenic views, serene rejuvenating environments and a healthy dose of pure unadulterated fun. Each of these marvels of nature promises to engage all your senses; from the pebbles, you walk on to the glisten of the water as the sun strikes its surface, from the cool water enveloping your skin to the gentle roar of the gushing water.

Types of swimming spots:

  • High-mountain streams
  • Farmland valley creeks
  • Natural lakes
  • Man-made reservoirs.



As you search for the perfect summer outing for your family or the ideal fun-filled summer bash with your friends, there is not a shadow of a doubt that one of these 70+ outdoor swimming spots will prove to be perfect!

Precautions & Warning

As exhilarating as reckless fun can be in these hot summer months, swimming holes, and the associated cliff jumping, can prove to be exceptionally dangerous. Areas that are known specifically for jumping can pose significant risks depending on the weather and climatic conditions. 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, of utmost importance to develop an understanding of current conditions and all associated risks and concerns. Make safe decisions!

All in all, swimming holes in and around Oregon are most definitely summer hot spots. Make it easier on local management agencies by doing your part in keeping these locations clean. Be sensitive to the small plants; be careful not to trample them. Be safe. Be responsible. Have fun!



Swimming near Portland

High Rocks - Clackamas RiverDespite 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..

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Swimming near Salem

Three PoolsThe Cascade Mountains and Willamette Valley offer great summer swimming and diving opportunities in natural waters within reasonable proximity of one of the largest in Oregon - Salem Metropolitan Area.

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Swimming near Eugene

Quartzville Creek SwimmingThe Eugene area that includes the southern part of the Willamette Valley, the west side of the Cascade Mountains, and Coast regions are popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

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Swimming Oregon Coast

Alsea River SwimmingNortern Oregon Coast. Central Oregon Coast. Southern Oregon Coast.

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Swimming near Bend

Steelhead Falls - Deschutes RiverThere is an abundance of swimming holes near Bend including high-altitude natural lakes, man-made reservoirs, swimming spots, and waterfalls on the Deschutes, Metolius, and Crooked Rivers.

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Swimming Southern Oregon

Swimming near Roseburg. Swimming near Medford and Ashland.Illinois River - Sixmile Swimming Hole

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