💦 Portland's Best Swimming Holes (and a Few Tips If You Wear Glasses)
Let’s be honest. When summer finally shows up in Portland, actually shows up, not that two-hour tease in early May, it hits hard. One minute you're sipping cold brew with a hoodie on, the next you're sticking to your bike seat and swearing the air is made of soup.
And when that heat arrives, there’s only one thing to do: find water. Not just any water, either. You want river bends, hidden coves, cold plunges, maybe even a rope swing if you're feeling bold. These aren’t your basic, chlorine-filled pools. These are the kind of places that require a little drive, maybe a dirt path, and pay you back tenfold in views, vibes, and that glorious moment your body temp finally resets.
We rounded up some of the best swimming holes within a reasonable drive of Portland. Whether you're out for a quick dip or an all-day float-and-snooze session, there's something on this list that'll hit. And if you're someone who wears glasses, contacts, or sunglasses (like most of us), check the end for tips to keep your specs from getting fogged, splashed, or sacrificed to the river gods.
Oxbow Regional Park
A classic for a reason. The Sandy River slices through the forest here, creating long, winding beaches that are somehow never too crowded. It’s a favorite for families, solo floaters, and folks who just want a quiet afternoon away from city noise. There are restrooms, picnic tables, and lots of shade. You could spend the whole day here and still find a new spot to settle in.
Moulton Falls
Deep emerald water, moss-covered stone, and a footbridge that makes it feel like you’re stepping into a fairy tale. People come here to jump. Or to sit on warm rocks and think about jumping. If you don’t want to swim, it’s still a great hang. Bring snacks. Bring a friend who’s not in a rush.
Sunset Falls
It’s a short walk in. Just a few minutes. But when you reach the falls, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a little world of your own. The water's cold. The pool is glassy. It’s the kind of place where no one’s yelling. Bring a towel, a book, and a quiet afternoon.
Dougan Falls
Big energy. People jumping off rocks, floating with music playing, throwing frisbees, yelling, laughing. It’s a vibe. Not for when you want peace and quiet, but perfect if you want to cool off and feel like summer’s finally doing its thing. Go early if you want parking, and keep your valuables close.
Milo McIver State Park
This one doesn’t get the same hype as the others, which makes it great. The Clackamas River snakes through the park, and there are a few excellent spots where you can wade in, float, or just sit and let your legs dangle in the current. Great for kids. Even better for adults who want to avoid crowds.
Wilson River
It’s all about discovery here. You don’t go to one specific swimming hole. You walk a little, spot a calm bend in the river, and make it yours for the day. Some pools are deep enough for real swimming. Others are just right for a quick splash. Either way, it’s quiet, forested, and super underrated.
Sauvie Island
Map for Walton Beach
Map for Collins Beach
You don’t need to drive far to find great water. Sauvie’s still got it. Walton is family-friendly, while Collins leans a bit more... let’s say relaxed on the dress code. The Columbia flows gently here, so it’s perfect for lazy floats and chill afternoons. Don’t forget your parking permit or you’ll come back to a ticket. However, if you have a dog, you might want to read up on some of the issues with salmon poisoning (some dogs have gotten sick recently, even passed away, due to this issue along the Columbia).
Lower Lewis River Falls
If you’re going to pick just one, pick this. It's not close, but it's absolutely epic. Multiple tiers of falls. Clear, turquoise pools. Rock ledges you can dive from. Forest so thick you’ll forget where you parked. Show up early and pack like you’re staying a while. Most people do.
👓 Tips for the Glasses, Contacts, and Sunglasses Crowd
You’ve got your towel. Your snacks. Maybe even a floatie shaped like a flamingo. Don’t forget to look out for your lenses too.
Hard case
Toss it in your bag. It weighs nothing and might just save you from a crushed pair after you sit on your backpack.Microfiber cloth
Shirts are for sweat. Your lenses deserve better. Keep a small cloth in a dry pouch and thank yourself later.Anti-fog spray
Especially helpful if you’re hopping in and out of cold water, then hiking back in the heat. No one enjoys blurry hikes.Clip-ons or photochromic lenses
If you wear prescription glasses, you already know bright water can blind you. These help. A lot.Contacts? Bring goggles
Rivers aren’t pools. You’ll be dodging splash zones and tiny bits of sand. Protect those eyes like they’re your last set.
Ready to jump in? Grab your crew, throw some towels in the trunk, and don’t forget water (for drinking, not just swimming). Summer’s short in Portland. Make it count.
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