swimmingholes.org logo

CALIFORNIA SWIMMING HOLES

Click here to see the home page and learn about swimming holes in other states

ON STATE MAP BELOW: BLUE = swimming hole, RED = hot spring


See a SLIDESHOW of swimming hole photos in these states.

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


AGUA CALIENTE PARK
(AGUA)

SEE LINK BELOW FOR PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN DIEGO, ALPINE, BORREGO SPRINGS
LAT, LON lat=32.95169, lon=-116.30582(source:UScampgrounds) (accuracy: exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Hot springs
TYPE Natural hot spring fed into man-made pools
DESCRIPTION "Agua Caliente County Park is a regional camping park located in the Anza Borrego Desert and is best known for its geothermally heated springs. Three naturally fed pools provide different ways of enjoying the park's mineral water: There are two pools outdoors, and an indoor therapeutic spa is heated to 102 degrees and outfitted with Jacuzzi jets. The park is very popular during the winter and has numerous camping sites (full hook-ups, partial hook-ups, non hook-up and tent sites, and a caravan area for large groups) available. Hikers will enjoy miles of trails that meander through the park's canyons and across its hillsides."
AREA Anza-Borrego State Park area
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes - see web site above
FACILITIES All facilities.
ACTIVITIES Hot tubbing, swimming
PHONE 760-765-1188
CAMPING Yes, very popular in winter, get reservations: 877-565-3600
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS "111 miles from San Diego. From Ramona through Julian: East on State Highway 78 to Scissors Crossing then south 26 miles on Highway S2 to the park entrance. From Interstate 8: East on Interstate 8 and exit at Ocotillo, then 22 miles north on Highway S2 to the park entrance."
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 4/2010

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


AQUATIC PARK
(AQUA)

SEE LINKS BELOW FOR PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS SAN FRANCISCO, GHIRARDELLI SQUARE
LAT, LON lat=37.807292, lon=-122.423542(source:DeLorme) (accuracy: exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER San Francisco Bay
TYPE Spring-fed pool
DESCRIPTION In the heart of San Francisco, in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is Aquatic Park: a small beach on a lagoon in the San Francisco Bay which is a historic swimming place and is still used and open to the public. The water is not pristine (and sometimes real cold) but some folks swim year around. There are at last two clubs (open to the public for a small fee) for people who swim here. For photos and information, see: DOLPHIN CLUB , SOUTH END CLUB. For other information see: GORP , FROMMERS .
AREA Golden Gate National Recreation Area GGNRA
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes - see web sites above
FACILITIES Changing facilities, bathrooms in Dolphin and South End club facilities.
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE (415)561-4700(GGNRA)
CAMPING None at site
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS Take cable car to Ghirardelli Square then walk north to Aquatic Park (parking very limited).
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 12/4/2006

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org

AUBURN AREA
[2 PLACES]
(AUBU)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SACRAMENTO,  RENO (NV), AUBURN
STATE CA
WATER American River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION There are a number of swimming holes along the North Fork of the American River outside of Auburn in the Auburn State Recreation Area .   See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA Auburn State Recreation Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE 530-885-4527
CAMPING There are several camping places along the river.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Sacramento, take  I-80 east to Exit 119 at Auburn. Take RT 49 south, then:

CLARKS HOLE [CLAH]:  There are a number of swimming holes along the North Fork of the American River outside of Auburn in the Auburn State Recreation Area . Clark's Hole is one of the best. YOUTUBE . A short but steep trail down to the hole with rugged cliffs around. This is just above where the Middle Fork American joins the North Fork American - it is generally not recommended that you swim in the Middle Fork, which is a challenging whitewater rafting river. The Recreation Area stretches for miles along both forks.   To get here: and take RT 49 south. Keep on Rt 49 through Auburn. In about 3 miles RT 49 will cross the American River. Park near here and follow the trail upstream on the North Fork. In about .5 miles of hiking you will pass under a highway bridge (Forrestville Rd) and in about another .25 miles you will come to Clark's Hole, big and deep. LAT, LON lat=38.9293, lon=-121.0385 (source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 4/2010.

UNIVERSITY FALLS [UNIV]:   Beautiful series of low falls, waterslides and swimming holes. PHOTO , YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE . . (The following directions are by Tim Joyce.)   Arrive early (before 10 a.m.) or late (after 3 p.m.) to avoid the boom box-and-cooler crowd. Best time to visit is July and during the summer. Early in the season the falls are too strong. This swimming hole is dog friendly.  As with all swimming holes, swim at your own risk; there are no lifeguards at University Falls and there have been accidents. University Falls is 30 miles (50 minutes) east of  Auburn. To get here from Auburn, continue on RT 49 south to the town of Cool. Go east on RT 193 to Georgetown. Go left onto Main St. (you will know you are in Georgetown because all the trucks and motorcycles park in the middle of  main street. Traffic passes on both sides); this is Wentworth Springs Rd. There is a grocery store in town here. Also, there are no other gas stations on route, so plan on gassing up in Georgetown. Take this road (Wentworth Springs Road) out of town for about 12 miles. Note: The El Dorado Ranger Station will be about half way on this road on your right. It is a good place to stop for a free map. They also have well maintained restrooms. This is the closest legal restrooms to the falls. Better stop for junior there.

Just after passing into the town of Quintette, find parking on the left (you will know you have crossed into Quintette because there is a road marker on the right as you enter the town). The parking is on the left side of the road near the gate. A large yellow gate has been constructed to prevent vehicles from accessing the service road you will be hiking on. The yellow gate we are talking about it the gate right before the University of Berkeley Headquarters (Blodgett Experimental Forest Headquarters) entrance way. If you go by the Blodgett Forest Headquarters entrance way, you have gone too far. Google maps shows the yellow gate and limited parking area if you are interested in looking at it prior to your hike. Please don't block the gate or access to the service road or you will get towed!!

Note: this is not an easy swimming hole to find. One wrong turn and you will end up in the woods hiking for a long time. Please bring enough back-up water and food for your hike. However, the hike is fairly easy and
not that steep (except the final 1/4 mile descent). Junior should be able to handle it if you follow these directions.

From the yellow gate, allow 90 minutes to walk in. Walk past the bright yellow gate; 200 feet past the gate, continue straight on the fire road (Note that the trail forks at about 200 feet past the gate. Stay straight or on the right at this first fork. The left turn at the fork descends down into an old logging area. You will know you have gone the wrong way if the road is not clear. The correct hiking road is wide and clear and should not require anything more than sneakers).

Hike for about 0.5 miles until you reach a second fork. You will know you have reached this fork because right in the center of the fork is a Forest sign  road marker (12N67B). The markings on the sign have been scratched by vandals. However, it is still legible. Go left at this fork and hike about 1 mile down until you reach a large clearing. (Note: Prior to reaching this clearing you will pass one or two dead-end distracter trails on the right and then some newly planted trees (Blodgett Experimental Forest)). There are some logs and rocks marked with blue arrows at the clearing. At the clearing the trail continues straight or turns sharply to the right and heads down hill. Follow the arrows and trail to the right and down hill. Follow the trail down hill for 0.25 miles. The trail then turns sharply left and then continues down until the road. At the road you need to take a sharp hair pin turn to the right. You will be walking along the Pilot Creek water canal, flume etc.. which will always be on your right. You will pass a pile of gravel also. The trail then bends left.

You need to follow this road with the flume on your right for about 0.5 miles (the flume or water canal will always be on your right). Just as you have almost given up hope, there is an obvious sign on your left. There is also a tree marked with blue wording that says "Falls". Follow this trail left and down about 100 feet until the next clearing.  At the clearing you will be tempted to go straight. Don't do it! There is a tree with a  park sign on it that is a distracter. It is like a Siren calling you in the wrong direction away from your goal. Follow the trail to the right. There are some blue arrow markers guiding you in the correct direction (right). It's a little brushy. The trail descends fairly steeply for about 0.25 miles. The first steep descent will require you to "hike a bike" if you biked in and didn't walk. It is too steep to ride down - not recommended. Walking is fine. The trail then flattens and proceeds down again steeply. You will pass an overturned red pick up truck on your left. At this point you should hear the falls. There is a second blue pick up truck on your right as you proceed further down to the bottom of the trail. The swimming area starts right near the second truck. To reach the top of the falls keep walking down the trial. It takes you to the top of the falls. The 3 main water slides are just below. The water slides are each 30 to 80 feet wide and about 12 to 15 feet deep.  LAT, LON lat=38.9293, lon=-121.0385 (source: measured by another) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 4/2010.

Please be careful at the lower Falls!!  A number of people have been killed around the 4th water slide. It is difficult to reach and the drop beyond this slide is treacherous. A rope has been constructed to help for getting out of the pool. Don't trust it. People have missed the rope and have been washed over the falls. Please be careful!!

Hikers, Please read this link!!! http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=121383
 
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED By another
DATE UPDATED 4/2010



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BASS LAKE
(BASS)

PHOTO
PHOTO
PHOTO
LINK TO "Best Hikes in CA" blog photos
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN FRANCISCO, MARIN, BOLINAS
LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=37.9507, lon=-122.7645(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Bass Lake
TYPE Lake
DESCRIPTION Hike 2.6 miles (each way) to escape the crowds in Point Reyes National Seashore and join the bathing-suit-optional, laid back folks at Bass Lake. No real beach here and sometimes a bit muddy but good swimming, a great ambiance and a rope swing to play on. Even when it is foggy on the road, it is often clear at the lake. See web sites for more info:NATIONAL SEASHORE , NUDE BEACHES OF MARIN COUNTY.
AREA Point Reyes National Seashore
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Rope Swing
PHONE (415) 663-1092 (National Seashore)
CAMPING Walk-in, primitive camping (only) at the National Seashore
BATHING SUITS Optional (very!)
DIRECTIONS From San Francisco, take RT 101 across the Golden Gate then RT 1 north. Just past Bolinas Lagoon, turn left at the exit to Bolinas (may be unsigned). Follow the road along the lagoon until it ends then take Olema-Bolinas Road to the stop sign at Mesa Road. Go right on Mesa Rd. and go about 4 miles where it turns to dirt and ends at a parking area. There is a sign at the trailhead by the lot which will direct to Palomarin Trail. The hike to the lake is about 2.3 to 2.6 miles one way. Although the ocean breeze makes this hike fairly cool in the summer you should still bring water.

Your hike will take you past a grove of eucalyptus trees. After you pass the eucalyptus trees you will pass by a cliff on your left that gives you a beautiful view of the Pacific ocean. You then will proceed up a hill for about 1 mile. You then come to a trail intersection that reads "Coast Trail" , Wildcat camp 3.3 miles or Palomarin trail 2.2 miles. Stay on the Palomarin trail. Follow this trail until you reach another trail marker that says "Bass Lake". You turn left at this sign and follow the trail down to the lake. You will know you are on the right trail since you will get a view of the lake on your left.

The actual trail to the waters edge is not easy to locate. It is about 0.6 miles down on the left just past the end of the lake. It is not easy to spot on your left since there is much poison ivy. You know you have missed it if the trail starts to slightly ascend and the canopy begins the thicken. If you take this trail it will take you to a clearing close to the lake where most people camp and sun bathe. The rope swing is another 0.2 miles past this small camp. In the attached photos you can see the tree with the rope swing (it is the large tree on the water at about 1 PM in both photos). On a hot day I have seen up to 30-40 people here. Most of the time you will have the place to yourself. When you come to a grass meadow walk to the lake - there are 3 paths.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED By another
DATE UPDATED 4/2010



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BIG SUR AREA
[4 PLACES]
(BIGS)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN FRANCISCO, MONTEREY, BIG SUR
LAT, LON lat=36.24828, lon=-121.77803(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION At the heart of the wild and remote Big Sur is the deservedly-popular Pfeiffer-Big Sur State Park, through which courses the Big Sur River just before it empties into the Pacific. Of course, you can swim in the Pacific nearby (at Andrew Molera State Beach) but there are also several fresh water swimming holes in the Big Sur River in Pfeiffer-Big Sur S.P.. South of here, along the coast, is Eslen hot springs and other swimming holes. For details see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Pfeiffer-Big Sur S.P./ Los Padres N.F. / Esalen Institute
SANCTION Varies
FEE Yes
FACILITIES Full facilities in Pfeiffer-Big Sur State Park
ACTIVITIES Swimming/Hot Tubbing
PHONE 831-667-2315 (Pfeiffer-Big Sur State Park), (831)667-3000 (Esalen)
CAMPING At Pfeiffer-Big Sur S.P., extremely popular, must get reservations early, call (800)444-PARK (Mistix)
BATHING SUITS Varies - see below
DIRECTIONS From Monterey, go south on RT 1, then:

CAMPGROUND [CAMP]:Follow signs to Pfeiffer - Big Sur State Park on RT 1.  Enter the Pfeiffer- Big Sur State Park. The charge to get into the park is $10.00 (June, 2010).  In the Big Sur river where it passes by the campground is a deep hole with a large rock forming a pleasant and accessible swimming hole enjoyed by many campers. LAT, LON lat=36.25026, lon=-121.78214(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Bathing suits for sure. PHOTO. Very confident. Verified. Updated 12/15/2005.

NOTE: People often confuse Preiffer-Big Sur State Park with Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a well respected pioneer woman in the Big Sur country. The park stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and an 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1. As you are traveling south from Carmel you will encounter Pfeiffer -Big Sur State Park first. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is further south on Highway 1.

GORGE [GORG]:  
Also in the Pfeiffer - Big Sur State Park: For a spectacular swimming hole setting, go to the far eastern end of the road along the river in the park then hike upstream along the Big Sur river for about 10 minutes, some scrambling over rocks and wading in water is required, to get to the gorge. Here a deep pocket of cold water is surrounded by massive smooth rocks. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . A report from a visitor:"The large swimming area quickly became overcrowded while we were there. However, the downstream area offers a fine area for Jacuzzi soaking, splashing and swimming in a smaller, more intimate setting. I was amazed to see that virtually everyone was overlooking the river portion as they walked to the main pool upstream". LAT, LON lat=36.24815, lon=-121.76988(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Bathing suits for sure. For good swimmers only, it can be difficult to find a place to scramble out on the boulders. Very confident. Verified. Updated 12/15/2005.

To get here,  enter the Pfeiffer- Big Sur State Park. The charge to get into the park is $10.00 (June, 2010).   Proceed to the Lodge which will be on your right. The Lodge has a restaurant and bathrooms. There is also a general store here.  At the fork near the Lodge, bear left (it actually is the middle road) and follow this road along until you reach parking area #3 or #4. You will know you are on the correct road because the river will be on your right side. The correct parking for The Gorge is at the end of the road. At parking area #3 there is a paved path with a sign indicating that The Gorge is 0.6 miles. Follow the paved path up the hill until you reach the river. There is a plank bridge to cross the river. After crossing the river follow the road to the left through the camping area until you reach a clearly marked trail. Follow the trail up the river for about 0.2 miles. Note that the best approach is to stay to the right. The path will take you almost all the way to The Gorge. You will reach a point you can not go any further and will have to drop straight down into the river (there is a log you must climb over). Most people remove their shoes here. At this point you will need to cross the river to the other side. It is shallow enough to wade across. The water is not too deep here. The trail continues on the left side until you reach the rock impound at the base of The Gorge. If you follow these directions you will only need to cross the river once and will not need to boulder hop. If you cross too early on the left side you may have to boulder hop or cross back in a deep section of the river.

Note: There is no jumping at The Gorge. Also, recently there have been significant deposits of sand on the bottom of The Gorge area making it much more shallow than in 2009. The only deep section
now is on the side of The Gorge near the rock impound. It is about 8 feet deep. However, the good news is there is more beach area for chairs.

ESALEN HOT SPRINGS [ESAL]: While you are in the neighborhood, go further down RT 1 for a late night visit to the beautiful hot springs at Esalen Institute. Natural hot water is led into stone pools above the thundering Pacific. (The old pools were destroyed in mud slides in 1998, but are now rebuilt - as of 9/04.) Photos of new pool and facility: PHOTO , PHOTO . Unless you are staying at Esalen, you can only use the pools from 1AM to 3AM (yes, AM!), for which you pay $20.00 a person and for which you MUST make reservations ahead, either in person or by calling 831-667-3047. (There is also a new "personal retreat" program for "Friends of Esalen" whereby you can register to spend one or more days partaking of programs, including the hot springs, without being in a particular workshop. See the web site for details.) Bathing suits are not necessary. Outstanding experience, worth losing a little sleep over, don't miss it! LAT, LON lat=36.126250, lon=-121.641742(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. (Lots of mind-expanding workshops at Esalen too; see their web site at www.esalen.org ). To get here from Pfeiffer; continue down Rt 1 to signs for Esalen Institute. Very confident. Verified. Updated 12/15/2005.

SALMON CREEK FALLS [SALF]: Awesome waterfall near the south end of Big Sur area (Los Padres N.F.) with great swimming hole in pool at the bottom. PHOTO , PHOTO, 
PHOTO . Bathing suits may be optional. LAT, LON : lat=35.81601, lon=-121.35673(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . To get here, go way south on RT 1, 7.5 miles south of Gorda. There is a tight turn in the road with a large parking spot on the east side of the road. You can see the waterfall from the road. Park and look near the south side of the bridge for the Salmon Creek trailhead (you may have to hunt a bit for this but it is marked). Follow the trail for about 5 minutes until it comes to a clear area like a campsite and follow one of the small trails down to the creek. You will tell you are on the right trail because it does not require "bush-whacking" to get to the falls. (Alternately, simply follow the sound of the water, and you will arrive at the base of the falls.)

You may be tempted to take a few trails that aren't marked that appear closest to the creek (North side of the river & bridge. Most people will be parking and walking down toward the trail head).
One trail has a steep section and requires you to maneuver around a tree root near a dangerous  trench and then cross a log bridge under a tree canopy. The other heads up the Canyon wall to the left. The log bridge route will get you to the river and the falls. The other will take you to Never Never Land (don't go this way). It is much easier to just return safely back to the road and head further down (south) to the marked trail head. There is a lot of poison oak in the area heading up to the falls, so be careful!

Follow the trail for about 5 minutes until it comes to a clear area like a campsite and follow one of the small trails down to the creek. Alternatively, the trail can also travel up to a small cave area with campsite. There is an access way down that requires you to enter the cave and slide down a rock and then exit the cave. Be careful. It is good fun. This will take you to nearly the rock buttress at the base of the falls (described below).

To get to the base of the large falls will require you to either get wet by navigating through the river or to climb over a very large rock buttress. Climbing over the rock involves a few awkward maneuvers, but can be done, even by children. Salmon Creek Falls is about 120 feet high and is not easy to photograph (because it is so high and the canyon is so narrow to access the basin). The best spot to photograph the falls is probably on the top of the rock buttress. The water from the falls is split into two or more downward flowing streams by a large rock balanced at the top of the falls. This is a falls that evokes the response "Wow".

For a beautiful picture of the falls and video please see http://swimmingholesofcalifornia.blogspot.com or http://waterfallpage.blogspot.com.

Salmon falls is one of three top rated falls in Big Sur. The other two falls that are nearby include McWay Falls and Limekiln falls. Salmon is the only falls with a swimming hole.
For more info and maps see Water Falls West . Very confident. Verified by another. Updated  6/2010.

CONFIDENCE Varies-see above
VERIFIED Varies-see above
DATE UPDATED 12/15/2005

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BLACK CANYON
(BLAC)

NO PHOTOS
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN DIEGO, RAMONA,MESA GRANDE
LAT, LON (parking place) lat=33.12470 , lon=-116.80211 (source: map) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Black Canyon Creek
TYPE Creek/falls
DESCRIPTION Easy hike in a beautiful desert canyon along creek with several swimming holes fed by small waterfalls. 
AREA Cleveland N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE To park on any Cleveland National Forest lands, you must display an Adventure Pass, available at ranger stations, as well as outdoor stores like REI. 
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at Dos Picos County Park, off RT 67 west of Ramona.
BATHING SUITS May be optional
DIRECTIONS

From RT 78 just east of Ramona, turn left (north) onto Magnolia Avenue, which soon turns into Black Canyon Road. At about 7.3 miles you come to the intersection with Sutherland Dam Road -  continue straight on Black Canyon Road and cross the bridge. IN a short distance is the intersection with Santa Ysabel Truck Trail (on the left), dirt road with a gate. The road goes steeple downhill. Park near here and  walk down the Santa Ysabel Truck Trail for less than a half-mile (if the gate is open and you have the correct vehicle, you might drive down this road.)  

At the bottom of the hill, walk along the Santa Ysabel Truck Trail road east for a short way. You’ll soon see where the road crosses the creek and backtracks to climb up the northern slope of Santa Ysabel gorge. Don’t cross the creek, but stay to the right, and you’ll see an old wooden placard that signals the beginning of the trail. LAT, LON (of trailhead) lat= 33.12718, lon=-116.80351(source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAPThe trail is not heavily traveled so it’s a little faint in places, but still visible. In a bit less than a mile, you’ll begin to come to swimming holes. 


CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 10/12


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BLOW HOLE
(BLOW)

YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SANTA ANNA, LAGUNA BEACH
LAT, LON lat=33.52696, lon=-117.77018 (source: map) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Pacific Ocean
TYPE Cave in rocks near beach where ocean waves fill and empty.
DESCRIPTION CAUTION: THIS IS FOR STRONG SWIMMERS, PROPERLY EQUIPPED, WITH DIRECTIONS BY AN EXPERIENCED DIVER AND ASSISTANCE STANDING BY! Look at the videos above and assess your skills before you attempt to dive here. The location is the town of Laguna Beach at Pearl Street Beach at the north end of Woods Cove. LINK TO INFO
AREA Laguna Beach
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Diving
PHONE None
CAMPING No camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS In Laguna Beach, take Diamond St. to Ocean Way at the beach. Park and walk north on the beach to the rocks. CAUTION: Hazardous and rip conditions are often present. The surf breaks off the reef to the south and is a shore break. The area is fairly rocky with reefs at the north and south ends. Sometimes small rips set up just to the north of the tower. There is no climbing, jumping or diving off Arch Rock.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/2013


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BUCKEYE-TRAVERTINE
[3 PLACES]
(BUCK)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS CARSON CITY (NV), BRIDGEPORT (CA)
STATE CA
WATER Buckeye Creek/Hot Springs
TYPE Hot Springs
DESCRIPTION Here is another hot-cold combo; two hot springs and a cold creek in close proximity to each other. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA Toiyabe N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Picnic tables, Toilets near Buckeye at campground. None at Travertine.
ACTIVITIES Hot Tubbing, Wading
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING There is camping at Buckeye in a National Forest campground.
BATHING SUITS Optional (very)
DIRECTIONS Both Buckeye and Travertine Hot Springs are south of Reno and Carson City NV. on RT 395 near Bridgeport in CA. To get there:

TRAVERTINE [TRAV]: Travertine is a hot spring only, but a very interesting one with a great view of the Sierra-Nevada mountains (if you can overlook the dusty quarry yards nearby.) The hot springs are in travertine pools, rock hard and white as snow. PHOTO . To get there: Take RT 395 south from Carson City to Bridgeport (CA). Continue about .3 miles south of Bridgeport then go east (left) on Jack Sawyer Rd. (paved). Where the road turns right, continue straight onto an unpaved road. Pass the quarry site, up a hill to the hot springs site. There are both lower and upper pools. LAT, LON lat=38.24569, lon=-119.20494(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

BUCKEYE [BUCE]: Buckeye is a great hot spring alongside Buckeye Creek where you can cool off (not deep enough to swim) and camp within walking distance. To me, this place has it all! To get there: Take RT 395 south from Carson City to Bridgeport (CA). Just before you get into Bridgeport on RT 395, turn west (right) on Twin Lakes Rd. about 7 miles to FR 017. Turn north (right) onto FR 017 for 3 miles until after you cross the creek for the second time and you meet FR 038. If you go left here, you get to Buckeye Campground. For the hot springs, continue straight up to the top of the hill where there is a flat parking area. Park here. The hot springs are down the trail toward the creek, some on the hillside and some right down by the creek. LAT, LON lat=38.23881, lon=-119.32633(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

CARSON HOT SPRINGS RESORT [CARS]: While you are in the Carson City area, check out the Carson Hot Springs Resort. LAT, LON lat=39.19346, lon=-119.75297(source: map) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. The new owner says, "We have bought this small hot spring resort in Carson City, Nevada. The location is in Carson City and offers some unique experiences. The facility has been in use since 1849. Take a look at our web site. www.carsonhotspringsresort.com""
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 11/13/2001



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


CEDAR CREEK FALLS
(CEDA)

YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN DIEGO, RAMONA
LAT, LON lat=32.9898, lon=-116.730(source: web site) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Cedar Creek
TYPE Falls
DESCRIPTION NOTE: As of 7/4/2011,the Forest Service has closed this trail due to complaints of property owners and a fatal accident wherein a man fell from the trail into to water. No estimate of when it will open again.

Hot, dry and steep 2.5 mile each way hike to a fantastically beautiful 90 foot waterfall with pool at the foot and rocks all around. Also known as DEVIL"S PUNCHBOWL". CAUTION: PEOPLE HAVE DIED JUMPING HERE. DO NOT JUMP! The hike out is steep uphill, better be in good hiking shape and take lots of drinking water. Apparently a lot of folks in CA are in shape as this place is heavily visited and often has a lot of trash. Take an empty bag with you and bring out more trash than you bring in, please. This place dries up in mid-summer, so go well before that.
AREA Cleveland N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE To park on any Cleveland National Forest lands, you must display an Adventure Pass, available at ranger stations, as well as outdoor stores like REI
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE none
CAMPING Camping at Dos Picos County Park, off RT 67 west of Ramona.
BATHING SUITS May be optional
DIRECTIONS Take I-15 north from San Diego then take the Scripps Poway Parkway Exit. Take the Scripps Poway Parkway Exit East about 9 miles then turn left onto RT 67 and go about 6 miles then turn right onto Dye Rd. and go about 1.8 miles. Turn left on Ramona St. and go a short way then turn right on Warnock Dr. and go about .8 miles then turn right again on San Vicente Rd.. Go about 5 miles on San Vicente then turn left on Ramona Oaks Rd. and go about 3 miles and turn right onto Cathedral Way and go .2 miles then turn right onto Thornbush Rd, and find a place to park. Hike downhill to Cedar Creek then upstream to the foot of the falls - 2.5 miles each way. No better hiking directions.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 11/09



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


CHICO AREA
[6 PLACES]
(CHIC)

Link to "Swimming Holes of CA" blog photos TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SACRAMENTO, OREVILLE, CHICO
STATE CA
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION There are an abundance of swimming holes near Chico, some even right in town and others north and east of there - some in the Plumas N.F.. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Plumas N.F. (some)
SANCTION Varies-see below
FEE Varies-see below
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING There are several campgrounds, some east of Oroville and others near Storrie in the N.F..
BATHING SUITS Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS From Sacramento, take I-5 about 150 miles north to Oreland then RT 32 east to Chico. Then:

BIDWELL PARK[BIDW]: There is a long, linear park along the Big Chico Creek, beginning in the town of Chico and going to the northeast. Lower Bidwell Park is right in Chico and is accessed from downtown via Vallambrosa Avenue and there are several swimming holes here in the Big Chico River. Some of these are called "The Bank" (near Manzanita Avenue, has a rope sometimes), and "One Mile" (One Mile may have lifeguards) and "The Wall". To get to Upper Bidwell Park, take Wildwood Rd. north out of town and follow signs to the park. Here, the swimming holes, going from south to north along the Big Chico, are called "Bear Hole", Salmon Hole and Browns Hole . Brown's hole seems to be the best - somewhat remote and with fewer crowds. CAUTION ON SALMON HOLE AND BEAR HOLE In June, 2007, a man tried to jump into Salmon Hole from a cliff at the south end of the hole and was fatally injured when he hit the bank instead. Do not jump from this cliff. Both these places sometimes have fast moving water and it is possible to be swept away and/or underneath rocks. Do not swim in fast moving currents.

MAP (with some holes) , VISITOR INFO . LAT, LON lat=39.7622, lon=-121.7923(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Pretty confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

BUTTE CREEK[BUTT]: East of Chico, along Butte Creek, are more swimming holes - said to be more family-friendly than along Big Chico. From town, take Skyway Rd east then go left (east) on Honey Run Rd. to the parking area (pay fee) near the Honey Run Covered Bridge or park along the road (completely off the road or you may be ticketed). The water is easily accessible with flat rocks and sandy areas. GO further up Honey Run Rd. and you may find more solitary (bathing suits optional) swimming areas. Much of the land along the creek is private property - obey "no trespassing" signs. LAT, LON lat=39.72900, lon=-121.70528(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Very confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

The following places are best accessed from Oroville, which is a bit southeast of Chico:

FEATHER RIVER [FEAT]: There are a number of swimming holes in the North Fork of the Feather River in the Plumas N.F. northeast of Oroville. No specific information, just look for folks enjoying the river. From Oroville, take RT 70 northeast into the N.F. and look for places down the embankment in the river. LAT, LON lat=39.8576, lon=-121.3904(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Very confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

FEATHER FALLS [FEAF]: This is about an 8 mile round trip hike in the Plumas N.F. to 640 foot high Feather Falls, which has a which has an observation deck with a great view. The swimming holes are NOT at the bottom of the falls, but BEFORE you get to the observation deck on this trail, the trail will fork and you take the right fork uphill and in about .25 miles you will come to the Fall River (which feeds Feather Falls) and several swimming holes. TO get here, from Oroville, take RT 162 east (Olive Hwy) for 6.7 miles, turn right on Forbestown Road for 6.3 miles, turn left on Lumpkin Road for 11.4 miles to the signed turnoff for Feather Falls. Turn left at sign and drive 1.5 miles to the trailhead. LAT, LON lat=39.64306, lon=-121.27333(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Pretty confident. Updated 11/24/2007.

GRIZZLY CREEK [GRIC]: Continue on RT 70 along the Feather River (as above) and go about 1 mile past the Arch Rock Campground to where Grizzly Creek joins the Feather River and park on the right. Walk upstream on the right, through tunnels, to the first pool which is about a 10 minute walk past the second tunnel. If you scramble upstream about another 20 minutes or so there is another pool. LAT, LON lat=39.8611, lon=-121.3628(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Very confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

ROCK CREEK [ROCK]: Continue on RT 70 along the Feather River (as above) and go about 1 mile past the Cresta Dam to the area where Rock Creek comes in from the north to join the Feather River. There are several swimming holes near here. YOUTUBE . To get to the first, park at the first wide spot and scramble upstream (not much of a trail) on the right side of Rock Creek for about 20 minutes to small waterfall and swimming hole. For another, easier to get to, a drive about another .5 miles to another parking spot and walk north about .25 miles along an old road to where there is a water slide into a large pool and a number of other smaller holes nearby. If you continue to walk upstream from here, on the left bank, and squeeze between some boulders, there is yet another hole. LAT, LON lat=39.9078, lon=-121.3636(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Very confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 11/24/2007


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


CULL CANYON
(CULL)

LINK TO WEB PHOTOS
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN LEANDRO, HAYWARD, CASTRO VALLEY
LAT, LON lat=37.70769, lon=-122.05476(source: map) (accuracy: approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP

STATE CA
WATER Cull Creek
TYPE Lake
DESCRIPTION Dammed creek makes swimming area with sandy beach in Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area.  
AREA Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes, see web site
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE 510-537-2240
CAMPING None at site
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS
  • From I-580 eastbound in Castro Valley, take the Grove Way exit.  Turn to the north (left) on Grove Way.  Turn left onto Cull Canyon Road and continue to the park entrance on the left hand side.
  • From I-580 westbound, take the Castro Valley exit and continue west (left) on Castro Valley Blvd. to Crow Canyon Road. Turn right on Crow Canyon, then left on Cull Canyon Road and continue to the park entrance on the left.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 10/2012


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


DEATH VALLEY AREA
[2 PLACES]
(DEAT)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS FURNACE CREEK, PANAMINT SPRINGS
STATE CA
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION Surprising desert oases - waterfall swimming and water play places near Death Valley N. P.. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Varies - see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies - see below
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, water play
PHONE Varies - see below
CAMPING Developed camping at Panamint Springs, Furnace Creek and Texas Wells in Death Valley N. P.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Furnace Creek in Death Valley N. P., take RT 190 north then west to the junction with Panamint Valley Road (at Panamint Springs), then:

DARWIN FALLS [DARW]: Very special oasis in the desert - said to have water all year. About a 1 mile (each way) canyon hike leads to a series of waterfalls, one of which has a deep pool at the bottom for swimming.    To get here, continue on RT 190 west past the Panamint Valley Rd. to Panamint Springs.  Continue on RT 190 then, 1 mile west of Panamint Springs, turn south (left) on an unsigned road (dirt but is usually passable by automobiles) and follow it about 2.5 miles.  Just before you get to the "4 wheel drive" sign, take a turnoff to the right to small parking area (at 36.3277,-117.5147).  Park and hike on the well-used trail about 1 mile to the falls(do not hike up the "4 wheel drive" road, keep down by the creek, hiking directions .  There are several stream crossing involved and you go through a couple of fences.  The pool that is deep enough to swim may not be at the first falls you come to but continue to the other falls.  LAT, LON lat=36.32077, lon=-117.5245 (source: web site) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  Very confident. Partially verified, 11/2013. Updated 11/2013.

GREAT FALLS [GREA]: Picnic area and water play place at foot of Great Falls in the Great Falls Basin area in the Searles Valley west of Death Valley N. P.. Probably only has water in the Spring. Loose sand means four wheel drive will likely be required. To get here, take Panamint Valley Rd. south from RT 190.  BEFORE you get to Trona (north of Trona), just before the golf course on the east side (left - has a small sign), there is a sandy road on the west side (right) leading up to the Great Falls Basin area. If you miss the little golf course sign - easy to do - and come to the high school in Trona, then turn around and it is 4.7 miles north (back the way you came) of the high school to this same dirt road. The turn onto this road is at 35.8328, -117.3375. There is a BLM sign and map at the beginning of this dirt road. Drive up this rough sandy road (designated P 28 on the BLM map) and turn right on road P 27 and go as far as you can. Park and hike up the canyon to the falls (unknown length of hike - not too far we think) where there is a BLM picnic area. The falls has two levels, the lower is easy to reach but has only shallow water. The upper has a very deep pool of very cold water surrounded by huge boulders but climbing up the rocks may be dangerous and should be undertaken only if you feel confident and safe in doing so. LAT, LON lat=35.85609, lon=-117.3809 (source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Uncertain. Partially verified, 11/2013. Updated 11/2013.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED Partially
DATE UPDATED 11/2013



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


FOREST GLEN
(FORE)

YOUTUBE TO STATE MAP
TOWNS EUREKA, FORTUNA, REDDING, FOREST GLEN
LAT, LON lat=40.37702315, lon=-123.3269428(source: map) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER South Fork of the Trinity River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming place in river at National Forest campground.
AREA Forest Glen Campground, Shasta Trinity N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES All facilities at campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Snorkeling
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Eureka, take RT 101 south about 20 miles to Exit 685. Then take RT 36 east about 62 miles (enters the Shasta Trinity N. F.) to signs for the Forest Glen Campground. The swimming place is in the river at this campground.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/2013

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


GODS BATH
(GODS)

YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE TO STATE MAP
TOWNS STOCKTON, SONORA
LAT, LON lat=37.9858, lon=-120.0530(source: map) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Clavey River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Clamber over boulders for 150 yards to beautiful smooth rock pools fed by small falls.
AREA Stanislaus N. F
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING No camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Customary (popular spot)
DIRECTIONS From Sonora, take RT 17 (Tuolumne Rd.) east into Tuolumne. In Tuolumne, turn north to keep on RT 17 (Carter Rd.) then continue onto Buchanan Rd. then keep right onto FR 1ON4. (From here the directions are much too complicated, best to put the coordinates in your GPS to get there.) The coordinates will take you to a bridge over the Clavey River. (It takes about a total of 1 hour 15 minutes from Sonora to this bridge). Park near the bridge and climb down to river on west side of bridge. Walk upstream, clambering over boulders, for about 150 years.(.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/2013

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


HAPPY CAMP AREA
[7 PLACES]
(HAPP)

NONE
TOWNS YREKA, CRESCENT CITY, HAPPY CAMP
STATE CA
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION Many great swimming holes in the Klamath National Forest near Happy Camp, which is between Yreka and Crescent City. For details, see "directions" below.
AREAS Klamath National Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES At Happy Camp and at the campgrounds nearby
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING There are several national forest campgrounds along RT 96 both east and west of Happy Camp.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Yreka (at I-5) take RT 263 north about 7 miles then RT 96 west (into the Klamath N. F.) about 65 miles to Happy Camp. Then:

THE EDDY [EDDY]: Popular family swimming place in Indian Creek (a tributary of the Klamath River) with tubing possible. To get here from Happy Camp, go north on Grayback Rd. (may be known also as Indian Creek Rd.) about 3 miles. No more detailed directions. The swimming place is here in Indian Creek - some people tube from here down to the Klamath River (about 3.5 miles). LAT, LON: lat=41.83270,lon=-123.38277(source:Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2014.

INDIAN CREEK - SOUTH FORK [INDI]: Small waterfall in South Fork Indian Creek with swirly Jacuzzi-like water to massage your back. To get here from The Eddy (above) continue north on Grayback Rd.(may be known also as Indian Creek Rd.) about 5 more miles then turn west (left) on South Fork Rd then keep left at the fork to stay on South Fork Rd. (FR 17N32). You will shortly come to a bridge over the South Fork Indian Creek. The Jacuzzi place is here at this bridge (or at another bridge over Indian Creek further west on this road - not totally sure). LAT, LON: lat=41.87892, lon=-123.43273(source:Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Uncertain (of exact location). Not verified. Updated 3/2014.

ELK CREEK HOLES[ELKC]: Swimming holes in creek. To get here from Happy Camp, take Elk Creek Rd. south, cross the Klamath River bridge, turn right to stay on Elk Creek Rd. then keep left at several forks to stay on Elk Creek Rd.. Go about 5 miles where you will come to the Five Mile Bridge over Elk Creek at a left fork in Elk Creek Rd.. If you continue straight here (DONT cross the bridge) onto FR 45N19, you will soon come to a couple of turn-off places where there are several swimming holes. LAT, LON: lat=41.74770, lon=-123.3554(source:Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Uncertain (of exact location). Not verified. Updated 3/2014.

SULPHUR SPRINGS [SULP]: Complicated 7 mile drive on (dirt ?) forest roads leads to a small warm springs near the Sulphur Springs N. F. campground on Elk Creek. WEB INFO .

To get to the Sulphur Springs Campground from the Five Mile Bridge over Elk Creek (above), DO cross the bridge and from there go another 5 miles on Elk Creek Rd. to where there is another bridge across Elk Creek on your left. Here you turn left (DONT go straight on Elk Creek Rd.) and try to stay on FR 15N06 for about 3 more miles as it winds and forks all around. (Don't know how good the signs are in here - basically you are trying to get to the Sulphur Springs Campground, so there may be signs. It would seem very easy to get lost. It would be best if you put the below lat/lon in your GPS and see if you can follow that.) Once you get to the campground, park and cross on the footbridge and turn right to go the warm spring.

From the campground, there is also a short (but strenuous hike) on the Elk Creek Trail. In the Sulphur Springs Campground, park and cross on the footbridge and turn left onto the Elk Creek Trail which will take the more adventurous (and physically fit) to a deep swimming hole with jumping rocks around. LAT, LON (of the Sulphur Springs Campground): lat=41.66062 , lon=-123.31937(source:Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2014.

CLEAR CREEK 1[CLE1]: Eight miles on a winding dirt road and a 1 mile hike takes you to a series of beautiful swimming holes in Clear Creek, a tributary of the Klamath River. To get here from Happy Camp, go southwest on RT 96 (Klamath River Hwy) about 5 miles to the Wingate Bar Access to the Klamath River. Turn north (right) on FR 16N10 (dirt road) and follow it about 1.5 miles as it winds around then continue straight onto FR 15N32 and go about 6 miles more then continue straight onto FR 15N27 for a short way until the road ends. Here there is a small campground and a trailhead. Park and walk this trail, continuing upstream on Clear Creek, for about 1 mile to where the trail crosses a bridge over Clear Creek. The swimming holes are near here in Clear Creek. LAT, LON (of trailhead): lat=41.72866, lon=-95.07253(source:Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2014.

CLEAR CREEK 2 [CLE2]: Easier access to a nice swimming place in Lear Creek a bit further south along the Klamath River. No hike. To get here, continue southwest on RT 96 from Wingate (above) about 1 mile to the village of Clear Creek where there is an old store (now a home). Park across the road from this house and walk down to the creek where the swimming place is. LAT, LON: lat=41.71012, lon=-123.44805(source:Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2014.
CONFIDENCE See above
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 3/2014



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


HARBIN HOT SPRINGS
(HARB)

SEE LINKS BELOW FOR PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SACRAMENTO, WILLIAMS, MIDDLETOWN
LAT, LON lat=38.78767, lon=-122.65556(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Harbin Hot Springs
TYPE Hot Springs
DESCRIPTION Harbin Hot Springs is a well-established, nicely developed commercial hot springs with multiple pools, overnight facilities, restaurant, conference facilities, courses, meetings and other activities. Clothing optional in some places. Fees apply, reservations required for lodging, not for camping. WEB SITE . DIRECTIONS AND MAP .
AREA None
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes, see web site
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Hot Tubbing, Courses, Conferences
PHONE 707) 987-2477
CAMPING Camping at site - fee.
BATHING SUITS Optional in many places
DIRECTIONS From Sacramento drive North on I-5 for 58 miles to the town of Williams. Exit West on CA 20 for 37 miles. Turn Left onto CA 53, which turns into CA-29 south, into Middletown. Arriving in Middletown turn right onto Hwy 175. Drive three short blocks to Barnes St. (Big Canyon Rd.) and turn right. Drive 1.2 miles to Harbin Springs Road, turning left at the fork at the top of the hill. Follow road for 2 miles to the gate house.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 8/08.
DATE UPDATED 8/26/2008

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org





HATCHET CREEK
(HATC)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
YOUTUBE
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS REDDING, BURNEY
LAT, LON lat=40.87232, lon=-121.8955 (source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Hatchet Creek
TYPE Falls
DESCRIPTION Beautiful falls with deep pool below and jumping opportunities. There is a shallow beach area in front of the falls and to the left side of the falls (looking at the falls). Both are ideal for sunbathing. There are also a number of nice rocks to recline or lay on.
AREA unknown
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE none
FACILITIES none
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING unknown
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Redding, take RT 299 east for 35 miles. Turn left on Big Bend road and drive 0.8 miles to the bridge over Hatchet Creek. Park in the dirt parking area on the right. The trail to the falls
is in the back of the parking area on the right side. It is under 1/4 of a mile to the swimming hole. At the point you can visualize the falls, the trail forks. Stay on the lower route toward
the water and proceed up the right bank to get as close as possible to the falls. You may have to enter the water. It is only about knee deep. The other trail leads up toward the lip of the falls.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED By Tim Joyce
DATE UPDATED 8/10



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


HOT CREEK
(HOTC)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
PHOTO 3
PHOTO 4
PHOTO 5
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BISHOP, MAMMOTH LAKES, YOSEMITE N.P.
LAT, LON lat=37.6903, lon=-118.8403(source: USGS) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Hot Spring Creek
TYPE Hot Creek
DESCRIPTION NOTE:  AS OF APRIL 2011, BATHING IS PERMANENTLY NOT ALLOWED AT THIS LOCATION, NO MATTER WHAT YOU MAY READ ELSEWHERE.  DONT GO THERE EXPECTING TO GET IN.

This note came in 2008:"I noticed your report of swimming in Hot Creek near Bishop, Calif. I was there in 2006 and it was closed to swimming due to increased seismic activity and the hot springs increased from scalding to boiling. There is another hot spring in the area but I can not remember it's name but it was located beyond a US Ranger station."

This from a newspaper report in 12/2008:"...Hot Creek and several hot springs pools near the mountain draw many bathers each year. But federal parks officials have fenced off Hot Creek and banned swimming there because of the risk of extreme temperature changes. More than a dozen people have been killed or scalded in the creek since the 1960s, according to signs posted around the creek. Still, hot springs fans regularly ignore the signs and scale the fences to soak in the super-charged waters. [Some] hot springs enthusiasts suggest bathers use a thermometer, tied to a string, to test water"

The hot springs come up in the midst of a cold creek. Look at the photos. These notes from a visitor:"There have been a few people who really got scalded there because they did not watch where they went in the water. You gradually wade/walk out through the cold water until you start feeling the "hot" water. Then you have to be careful to not go right into it, or you will really get scalded! But all in all, its a great place to visit. If you are ever in this area, GO THERE! There are generally two main hot water vents (places) to soak there in the stream, one downstream and one upstream, and located maybe 200 feet apart from each other. There are also some other thermal features on shore, like fumaroles (steam vents), and in one area a boiling pool of water." See also: HOT SPRINGS ENTHUSIAST.
AREA Inyo N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial (but semi-developed)
FEE none
FACILITIES Primitive toilets, changing rooms
ACTIVITIES Hot bathing
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping north on RT 395 at Oh Ridge, south on RT 395 at Aspen Park.
BATHING SUITS Customary (big crowds sometimes)
DIRECTIONS From Mammoth Lakes, go 4-5 miles east on RT 395 then turn north (left) on Hot Creek Hatchery Rd/ Airport. After less than a mile, you will see a sign to "Hot Creek Geothermal Area". The last mile or so, before the parking lot, is unpaved.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 12/2008


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


HUMBOLDT REDWOOD AREA
[4 PLACES]
(HUMB)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS EUREKA, SCOTIA, REDCREST, WEOTT, MIRANDA, GARBERVILLE
LAT, LON lat=40.3225, lon=-123.9928(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Eel River, South Fork Eel River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION South of Eureka and Fortuna, RT 101 is closely paralleled by the "Avenue of the Giants" (old RT 101?) which runs through the beautiful Humboldt Redwoods State Park area and alongside the Eel River and the South Fork of the Eel River. There are numerous swimming places in these two rivers which are popular and easily accessed from the Avenue.

The visitor to this area should definitely stop at a visitor center ASAP and buy the Humboldt Redwoods State Park map ($2.00) which shows the area, the Avenue and rivers as well as the swimming holes! We do not attempt to detail all the swimming holes which are shown on the map, but to highlight a few of the best. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Humboldt Redwoods S. P.
SANCTION Semi-official (no life guards)
FEE No
FACILITIES All facilities along the Avenue and at the State Park campgrounds
ACTIVITIES Swimming, tubing
PHONE 707-946-2409
CAMPING Camping at Hidden Springs, Burlington and Albee Creek, three State park campgrounds. Get reservations.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Eureka and Fortuna, take RT 101 south, then:

SCOTIA FIREMENS PARK [SCOT]: This one is off of RT 101 in the town of Scotia before you get to (north of) Humboldt Redwood S. P.. Get of RT 101 at Scotia, go left on Main St. (through a pretty downtown area) then right on Bridge St.. Continue on Bridge St. over a pond and through a neighborhood and through a mill gate (if it is open - if not, you are out of luck) to a ball field and small park. Park here and walk down to the river. PHOTO . There is a concrete jetty here that you may be able to jump off the end of but CHECK WATER DEPTH AND CURRENTS BEFORE YOU DO SO! LAT, LON : lat=40.47573, lon=-124.10759(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

Continue south on RT 101 and then access the Avenue of the Giants at Redcrest and continue south. On the State Park map, you will see swimming holes along this road beginning just south of Redcrest, but the best places are near the Founders Grove and south of there:

LEATHERWOOD BAR [LEAT]: A popular swimming spot and scenic area - just a little bit tricky to get to. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . After you pass the Dyerville Overlook going south on the Avenue, drive just a short way and follow the signs as if you were going to get on RT 101 south (but you will not). Go slowly! Just as you make a right hand turn then another and you will seem to be on the ramp to RT 101 BUT turn right onto an unsigned gravel/dirt road (you don’t actually get on RT 101 at all). Drive down this road a short way and park and walk down to the gravel river bed and sandy beach. You are there! (You can also leave without getting on RT 101). LAT, LON : lat=40.35385, lon=-123.92775(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

WOMENS FEDERATION GROVE [WOME]: A pretty but not so populated swimming spot and scenic area - easy to find and to park. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . From the Leatherwood Bar (above), go about .7 miles south on the Avenue to signs for the Womens Federation Grove. Turn in and go down this narrow road to a large parking area near the river. Park and walk down to the river. Enjoy! LAT, LON : lat=40.34269, lon=-123.93881(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

GARDEN CLUB GROVE [GARD]: Even less populated swimming spot and scenic area - easy to find and to park. PHOTO . Continue south on the Avenue to the Visitor Center at the Burlington Campground (buy the map here if you haven't already) and go about 2 more miles south to the signs for the Garden Club Grove. Park and walk down to the river. Enjoy! LAT, LON : lat=40.29219, lon=-123.90210(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 8/08
DATE UPDATED 8/9/2008



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


KERN RIVER AREA
[2 PLACES]
(KERN)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BAKERSFIELD, LAKE ISABELLA, KERNVILLE
STATE CA
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION Great swimming places near and in Sequoia National Forest. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA Sequoia N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies-see below
FACILITIES Varies-see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING At Limestone Campground
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Bakersfield take RT 178 east through the spectacular Kern River Canyon to the town of Lake Isabella. Then take RT 155 north to Kernville and continue north on Sierra Way (aka: Mountain Rd., RT 99, Kern River Hwy.) into the Sequoia N. F., then:

LIMESTONE CAMPGROUND [LIME]: Swimming place in the Kern River at the Limestone Campground. To get here, continue north on Sierra Way past Fairview Campground to the Limestone Campground. The swimming place is here in the Kern River. No more specific directions - no parking information. LAT, LON : lat=35.965980, lon=-118.480017(source: Google) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 4/24/08.

BRUSH CREEK [BRUS]: Several swimming places and slides in a desert canyon along Brush Creek. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3. To get here, continue north on Sierra Way to just past the Limestone Campground, see on the left a large parking area signed "Brush Creek River Access" (popular boating access to the Kern River). Park here and walk across the road to a trail that goes up Brush Creek. There are numerous swimming holes in the first 1.25 miles up this creek. LAT, LON : lat=35.9711, lon=-118.4714(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 10/4/04.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 4/24/08


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


LAKE ARROWHEAD AREA
[2 PLACES]
(LAKA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN BERNADRINO, LAKE ARROWHEAD, HESPERIA
STATE CA
WATER Deep Creek
TYPE Creek/ Hot Springs
DESCRIPTION Hot and cold spots on the Pacific Crest Trail northwest of Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino N. F. Both are on Deep Creek and you can hike from one to the other on the PCT but we describe here a different trailhead for each as it makes  for shorter hiking.   For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA San Bernardino N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, hot tubbing
PHONE None
CAMPING

Deep Creek Hot Springs is managed by the United States Forest Service and does not allow camping within 1 mile of the hot springs. New privately owned camping facility and parking area opened to the public in 2020, 1.75 miles away from the hot springs. 

Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

BATHING SUITS Optional (VERY optional at Deep Creek Hot Springs)
DIRECTIONS From San Bernardino:

AZTEC FALLS
 [AZTC]:  Cliff jumping from 5 ft to 50 ft into a deep pool at the foot of 60 foot Aztec Falls.  Seen in Red Bull diving show.  Hike 1 mile on the Pacific Crest Trail.  In San Bernardino N. F. To get here from San Bernardino,  go north on RT 18 to Crest Park then go 3.1 miles north on RT 173 through Lake Arrowhead to Hook Creek Road. Travel 3 miles east on Hook Creek Rd., then bear left a short distance on Squint Ranch Road to a right-hand descent that leads .45 miles to Splinter's Cabin and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. Park here and hike 1 mile north on the PCT to Aztec.  LINK TO PHOTO , YOUTUBE. . LAT/LON (parking) lat=34.27257, lon=-117.12893(source: map) (accuracy: approximate)LINK TO GOOGLE MAP LAT/LON (falls) lat=34.2797, lon=-117.1286 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate)  LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident.  Not verified.  Updated 10/12. (There is also a swimming/jumping place near here called DEVILS HOLE which is often done as a hike along with Aztec Falls. YOUTUBE . Short but very steep hike down and back up. Get local hiking info for details.)
 

DEEP CREEK HOT SPRINGS [DEEC]:  (Description, photos and directions by Jim Tighe) "
Natural hot springs with man-made rock soaking pools, located along Deep Creek in the San Bernardino National Forest.    WIKIPEDIA ARTICLE  Springs are directly beside Deep Creek, which flows northerly through Deep Creek Canyon from Lake Arrowhead toward the Mojave River.  PHOTOPHOTO, PHOTO, PHOTO,PHOTO Soaking pool temperatures range around 104 degrees Fahrenheit, with each pool being slightly different than the others. The springs can be accessed from the Bowen Ranch, the Pacific Crest Trail, or a number of National Forest trailheads in the area.  One small, sandy beach is located directly across Deep Creek from the springs, and another is located immediately upstream of the springs and on the same side of the river.  Several other small beaches are located up and down the creek, among the wooded riparian zone along Deep Creek’s banks.  The spring area is historically VERY clothing- optional.  A varied mixture of clothed and nude visitors will normally be present at any given time.  There is no “nude” or “clothed” area, and visitors mingle together, fully dressed, partially dressed, or totally naked, as they feel comfortable.  If you choose to be nude, there is no need to find an area away from the crowd, and you can freely wander around the hot springs area or up and down Deep Creek wearing nothing at all.  IF YOU ARE OFFENDED BY NUDITY, YOU WILL NOT ENJOY DEEP CREEK HOT SPRINGS!!"

 
 "To get here From San Bernardino, take I-15 north to Hesperia.  Directions to Bowen Ranch are given, as it is the most popular location.  Beginning from the intersection of Interstate 15 and Main Street, in Hesperia, CA, proceed east on Main Street for approximately 6 miles.  Turn left onto Rock Springs Road.  Rock Springs road will become Roundup Way, and will change from pavement to dirt.  (Do not be confused by Deep Creek Road, which goes to the spillway where Deep Creek enters the Mojave River.  You can access the Pacific Crest Trail at the spillway, if you don’t want to go to Bowen Ranch.)  Continue on Rock Springs Road/Roundup Way for approximately 6 miles.  Turn right onto Bowen Ranch Road.  About 0.5 miles along Bowen Ranch Road, you should find a hard left curve, with a fence made of old tires on the right.  About half-way down Bowen Ranch Road, you should come to a cattle gap with a sign “Entering National Forest”.  Follow Bowen Ranch Road for approximately 5.5 miles total, take the left fork, and continue approximately 0.25 mile further.  Note that your GPS may tell you to turn where no roads exist…these are old roads that cross private property.  Just stick to the main road, don’t take any forks, and your GPS will correct itself shortly.  High-clearance vehicles are recommended due to rough roads and ruts, although small cars can make it with care."  

"Most visitors access the springs from the Bowen Ranch (fee to park and/or camp), which borders the National Forest boundary.  From Bowen Ranch, the hot springs are approximately 2.5 miles away, accessible by hiking, only.  Bowen Ranch is clothing-optional, and nude campers may be present.  The hike from Bowen Ranch to Deep Creek Hot Springs takes approximately 45 minutes going toward the springs, and a bit longer going back toward Bowen Ranch.  This is due to an elevation change of about 1000 feet between the two points.  Hikers should be in good physical condition, and should take plenty of water.  This is a desert environment, and temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime.  Shade along the trails is virtually non-existent, and it is recommended that hiking in should be done early and hiking out should be done just before sundown.  If you depart the hot springs area just as the sun reaches the ridge to the west, there will be shade along most of the trail, while there will still be enough daylight to reach Bowen Ranch.  The Deep Creek Hot Springs area is “day-use only”, and camping within one mile of the river is not allowed.  Keep in mind that after a day of soaking in the hot springs, the uphill hike to Bowen Ranch can be strenuous."

LAT, LON (Bowen Rach parking place) lat=34.36370, lon=-117.16198  (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  

LAT, LON (of hot spring) lat=34.3394, lon=-117.1769  (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 10/12. 

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Varies - see above
DATE UPDATED 10/12


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org

MCCLOUD AREA

[2 PLACES]
(MCCA)

LINKS TO PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO
TOWNS REDDING, MT. SHASTA, MCCLOUD
STATE CA
WATER McCloud River
TYPE River/Falls
DESCRIPTION Swimming holes along the McCloud river south of the town of McCLoud, see DIRECTIONS for details.
AREA Shasta-Trinity National Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Bathrooms at lower, middle, and upper falls.
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Fishing, and some Kayaking.
PHONE None
CAMPING

Fowlers Camp and Ah-Di-Na N.F. campgrounds.

BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS

From Redding, take I-5 north to town of Mt. Shasta. Take the RT 89 east exit. Drive RT 89 east about 5.5 miles through the town of McCloud, then: 

MCCLOUD FALLS (MCCL):Short but moderate/strenuous hike to three waterfalls in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest  with swimming holes at pools at the bottom. web info , web info , web photos.  You can opt to hike to each of the falls on the trails or drive to them individually. All three swimming holes are beautiful. The middle falls being the favorite. Free maps and directions are available at the Ranger Station in McCloud (5-7 miles west of Fowler Campground). Camping at Fowlers Camp N.F. campground.  Bathrooms at the falls.  Lat=41.24222, lon=-122.02619(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP

From RT 89 east of McCloud, turn south (right) at the sign for Fowlers Camp (on Fowlers Public Camp Rd.) , then drive 1.2 miles to the Lower Falls parking area. Park and hike the Upper McCloud River Trail upstream, starting at Lower Falls. Middle Falls is at about 1 mile in and is a favorite swimming hole. Upper Falls is about 2.5 miles in. All three falls have swimming places at the bottom and the first two can be pretty crowded on a hot day. All the falls are well marked and having parking lots and paved walkways to the falls "overlook". The middle and upper falls have about a 1 mile hike on well maintained trails. The lower falls has the best area for sun bathing. The middle and upper falls have limited space and rock surfaces. The middle falls is the most user friendly. The road to reach each of the falls is paved. The portion of the road to the middle and upper falls has a number of giant potholes so you might want to drive at a slow to moderate speed.

This is a dog and kid friendly place. Although children should be closely watched since all of the falls have some steep adjoining cliffs near the "Overlook" areas. Each of the falls have picnic areas. The best picnic areas being at the upper and then lower falls. The upper falls swimming hole is really only usable later in the summer when water flow is low.

Note: If driving from the Bay an alternate route is available that you can stop at McArthur-Burney Falls. This route also may be easier than the above route since the Fowler Campground
is located on route 89 about 7-8 miles east of McCloud.

Take I-5 north toward Redding. From I-5, take exit
#680/LAKE BLVD onto CA-299 E toward BURNEY/ALTURAS. The falls are clearly
marked and easy to find in Burney, CA. An entrance fee is required. There is an "overlook" to view the falls. The hike to the base of the falls is about 1.2 miles. From Burney to Fowler Campground in McCloud you need to go as follows:
  • Starting in BURNEY, CA on MAIN ST go toward SAGINAW ST
  • Continue on STATE HIGHWAY 299 E(CA-299)
  • Bear Left on STATE HIGHWAY 89(CA-89)
  • Continue to follow CA-89 -until you reach Fowler Campground on your left. (from Burney it is about 40 miles).

MCCLOUD RIVER PRESERVE (MCCR):  From the Nature Conservancy Web Site: "The McCloud River is one of California's aquatic jewels. Located near the top of California, north of the Sierra Nevada and at the southern end of the Cascade Range, the McCloud snakes its way down a scenic canyon beneath the rugged slopes of 14,000-foot Mount Shasta. The cool waters of the river roil with life." Fly fishing AND swimming holes.  Get a map at the USFS office in McCloud or at the trailhead if you can - it is said to show swimming holes.  One hole is called the Cattle Camp Swimming Hole.  

To reach the McCloud River Preserve from McCloud:  In the town of McCloud, turn right at the gas station onto Squaw Valley Road and set your trip odometer. Bear right at 9.3 miles, staying on FS road 11. At the 11.9-mile mark, turn right at the sign for "Ah-di-na" campground and the McCloud River Preserve. The road gets progressively rougher from this point: high clearance vehicles are recommended. At the 18-mile mark you'll pass the Forest Service "Ah-di-na" campground. Park near the end of the road at the 19-mile mark.  After parking at the end of a U.S. Forest Service road, cross a foot bridge and follow the sign to the preserve, which you'll reach after walking a gently descending, one-third mile walk along the lower McCloud River. At the preserve entrance you will find a picnic area, staff cabins and an information kiosk with variety of interpretive materials and maps.  It is a three mile hike one way if you go all the way.  LAT/LON (parking) lat=41.11312, lon=-122.11827 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate)  LINK TO GOOGLE MAP


CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 10/12





This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


MEMORIAL PARK
(MEMO)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS REDWOOD CITY, LA HONDA
LAT, LON lat=37.27350, lon=-122.28983(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Pescadero Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Walk path along Pescadero Creek to find wading and swimming places.
AREA San Mateo County Memorial Park
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Swimming, wading
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at the site
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From I-280 near Redwood City, take Exit 28 at Woodside Rd. / RT 84 and go west. Cross Skyline Blvd., staying on RT 84, and go through the town of La Honda. Turn left onto Pescadero Rd. and continue to the park entrance on the left.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 12/2008

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


MONO HOT SPRINGS
(MONO)

YOUTUBE TO STATE MAP
TOWNS FRESNO, BISHOP
LAT, LON lat=37.326, lon=-119.018(source: map) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER South Fork of San Joaquin River
TYPE Creek/Hot Springs
DESCRIPTION Natural hot springs along side of river, swimming places in river. Next to a National Forest campground. With a bit of walking, you can get to more private swimming areas too. There is also a private resort here too, with cabins and camping and spas.
AREA Sierra National Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES All facilities at campground
ACTIVITIES Hot tubbing, Swimming, Wading
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at the site in Mono National Forest campground (accepts reservations).
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Fresno, take RT 168 east for about 68 miles into the National Forest (at 32 miles, take a sharp left to stay on RT 168). Turn right onto Big Creek Rd and go 4.7 miles then continue onto Kaiser Pass Rd and go 12.0 miles. Turn left and proceed to the Mono National Forest Campground (pass the private resort in order to get to the N. F. campground).
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/2013



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


NAVARRO AREA
[5 PLACES]
(NAVA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS MENDOCINO, FT. BRAGG, NAVARRO, PHILO
STATE CA
WATER Navarro River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Several swimming holes along RT 128 in the Navarro River. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA None
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at Navarro Redwoods S.P. and Hendy Woods S.P.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Ft. Bragg or Mendocino on the coast, take RT 1 south then take RT 128 southeast. Then:

ROADSIDE 128 [ROA8]: Go southeast on RT 128 and watch the milepost signs. Just past milepost 3.00/3.01 pull out on the south (right) side of the road just before the guard rail begins. (Going northwest on RT 128, the nearest milepost before this spot is 3.08) Park and walk between two redwoods trees down to the river and the swimming hole. PHOTO . LAT, LON : lat=39.17876, lon=-123.70181(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

NAVARRO RIVER REDWOODS S. P.  [NAVP]: Continue a short way east on RT 128 to the Navarro River Redwoods State Park.  At the Paul Demmick campground in this park there is river swimming under the redwoods. LAT, LON : lat=39.17332 lon=-123.67164 (source: Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 9/2014.


PHILO [PHIL]: Continue southeast on RT 128 past Navarro and, before you get to Philo, look for a road on the south (right) side on RT 128 that is the Philo-Greenwood Rd. (a sign at the intersection says "Elk"). Go down this road a short way, just past Apple Farm you will cross a wooden bridge and, just on the far side of this bridge, pull off on the right in a pull out area. (You can see the sign for Hendy Woods S.P. across the road from here. Hendy Woods S. P. has swimming in the Navarro River too.). Walk down to the river under this bridge - the swimming hole is here. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT, LON : lat=39.08553, lon=-123.48508(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

INDIAN CREEK C. P. [INDI]: Continue southeast on RT 128 past Philo, at mile marker 23.48 - 1 mile east of Philo, 5 miles west of Boonville - on the bank of Indian Creek is Indian Creek County Park under tall redwood trees. Swim in the creek, tire swing on trees. Fee $5 for day use (has camping also). LAT, LON : lat=39.06116, lon=-123.43658(source: Map) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Not verified. Updated 8/2014.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Some, 8/08
DATE UPDATED 8/2014



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


ROCK POOL
(ROCP)

YOUTUBE TO STATE MAP
TOWNS THOUSAND OAKS, MALIBU
LAT, LON (Parking lot) lat=34.09677, lon=-118.7168(source: map) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Malibu Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Hike about 3 miles round trip (easy level hike but hot - bring water) in Malibu Creek State Park to a very popular creek swimming hole. Whole family fun, but come on weekdays if you can, it gets crowded. Great jumping place. No lifeguards. STATE PARK WEB SITE .
AREA Malibu Creek State Park
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Parking fee $12 in 2013.
FACILITIES All facilities at park
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at the State Park (accepts reservations).
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From the Pacific Coast Highway (RT 1), turn north on Malibu Canyon Road and go about 6 miles to the park entrance (0.25 miles before Mulholland Highway). From Thousand Oaks area, exit the Ventura Freeway (I-101) on Las Virgenes Road (RT N1) and go south 4 miles (cross Mulholland Hwy) to the park entrance. Pay fee and park in the main parking lot. Go to the office and get a map and/or information about how to walk to the Rock Pools. (To avoid the fee, you apparently can park on Mulholland somewhere west of Las Virgenes Road and walk directly to the Rock Pools. Better study a map well and/or get local knowledge before you attempt this.)
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 1/2014



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


RUSSIAN RIVER AREA
[2 PLACES]
(RUSA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SANTA ROSA, WINDSOR, GUERNEVILLE
STATE CA
WATER Russian River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION The Russian River is a popular canoeing, swimming and tubing area. There are a number of swimming holes, for details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Varies - see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Varies - see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming, canoeing, tubing
PHONE None
CAMPING Walk-in primitive camping at Willow Creek Environmental Campground
BATHING SUITS Varies - see below
DIRECTIONS From Santa Rosa on RT 101, go north on RT 101 about 6 exits then take River Rd. west toward Guerneville, then:

SUNSET [SUNT]: Sunset is a very well known swimming hole in the Russian River in Sonoma County Sunset Park near Guerneville. This has traditionally been a clothing optional place, with a primarily gay crowd, but the county has been opposing the clothing optional aspect and the crowd seems pretty diverse now and mostly in bathing suits. PHOTO . To get here from River Road going west, after you pass Steelhead Beach Regional Park and after you cross the bridge over the Russian River, but before you get to Guerneville, see on the south (left) side of the road "Sunset Rd." sign. DO NOT TURN INTO SUNSET RD. - there is no parking on Sunset Rd.. Instead, park in a pay parking lot ($7 day) on the river side of the road. There is no paring on the road.

Walk down Sunset Rd. then turn right at the sign for the Sonoma County Park and walk downstream. There are several swimming beaches you can walk to along this part of the Russian River. Find your special place and enjoy. Be aware that, if you go au naturel, the county may bother you as may the boy scout troops canoeing by! LAT, LON lat=38.50409, lon=-122.93080(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 7/2013.

WILLOW CREEK BEACH [WICB]: Near the coast, where the Russian River empties into the Pacific, is the Sonoma Coast State Beach and its Willow Creek Environmental Campground (1/4 mile walk-in sites, hidden among trees along the river). Hangout, swim and enjoy the river. To get here, continue west on River Road (RT 116) from Guerneville. When you get to RT 1, turn south (left) and cross the bridge then turn east (left) on Willow Creek Rd., then turn left when you see the Willow Creek Camp sign. Drive past the house and along the dirt road until you reach the camp parking lot. No better directions. LAT, LON lat=38.43106, lon=-123.06983(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/08.

CONFIDENCE See above
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 12/2008



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SALINAS AREA
[2 PLACES]
(SALA)

NO PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN JOSE, SALINAS, GREENFIELD
STATE CA
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION Multiple swimming holes and jumping places north and south of Salinas off RT 101. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Varies - see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies - see below
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Varies - see below
CAMPING Developed camping at Henry Coe S. P. and Arroyo Seco N.F. Campground
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From San Jose, take RT 101 south toward Salinas, then:

CHINA HOLE [CHIN]: Ten mile loop hike to a small swimming hole in hot landscape in Henry Coe S. P.. Sandy beach, flat rocks to lounge on. Take plenty of water to drink! State Park Web Site see especially the hiking page. To get here, continue south on RT 101 about 15 miles south of San Jose to Morgan Hill. RT 101 has three Morgan Hill exits. The middle one, East Dunne Avenue, is the one you take to get to the park. Heading south on 101, take the exit, turn left at the stop light, and cross over 101. You'll be heading east and climbing into the hills through residential areas for the first three miles. At the top of the first ridge of hills, when you come to a Y in the road, look for a sign that says "Henry W. Coe State Park, 10 miles." You'll bear right at the Y. The road crosses a bridge and follows alongside Anderson Reservoir for a ways. Then it turns into a narrow, winding, scenic mountain road. Continue to the visitors center (the campground is near here) and ask for information and a map of the China Hole Loop Trail. It is a 10 mile loop (10 miles total distance) and the swimming hole is about 5 miles into the loop. Carry at least four quarts of water per person. LAT, LON lat=37.172683, lon=-121.492538(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 11/09.

ARROYO SECO RIVER[ARRO]: Multiple swimming holes and jumping places on a 45 minute hike along a fire road that parallels the Arroyo Seco River from the Arroyo Seco Campground west of Greenfield in the Los Padres N. F.. There is a developed N.F. camping at Arroy Seco Campground. To get here, continue on RT 101 south past Salinas and exit at Greenfield and take Oak Ave west for 1.5 miles, turn south (left) on 14th St then quickly west (right) on Elm Ave. Go about 4.1 miles on Elm then turn left to stay on RT 16/Elm Ave and continue about 7 more miles. Then a slight left (west) onto Arroyo Seco Rd and go another 5 miles and park at the gorge parking area above the Arroyo Seco campground. Take the trail steeply uphill from the first creek crossing next to two trash cans. The swimming holes are along this stretch of the river with a good one at about a 45 minutes hike from the parking lot. LAT, LON lat=36.23472, lon=-121.48333(source: Google maps) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 11/09.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 11/09



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SANTA BARBARA AREA
[5 PLACES]
(SANB)

LINK TO PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SANTA BARBARA
STATE CA
WATER Varies- see below
TYPE Varies- see below
DESCRIPTION Popular swimmingholes in the Los Padres N.F. near Santa Barbara. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Los Padres N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping (make sure of the depth first), Sliding
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Nearby in the National Forest
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS Directions are from Santa Barbara:

SEVEN FALLS [SEVE]: (NOTE: Area closed beginning in 2009 due to fires - check before you go) Series of deep, narrow tubs in Mission Creek in the Los Padres N.F.. Small falls and chutes connecting them. Close to Santa Barbara, popular and with lots of people on a warm weekend day, but worth it. Water levels may be low late in the season. NEWS ARTICLE WITH PHOTOS . To get here, in Santa Barbara take Los Olivos Rd. east to Foothills Rd. (RT 192). Go right a short way on Foothills then left on Mission Canyon Rd.. Follow Mission Canyon Rd. then bear left onto Tunnel Rd. and follow it to the locked gate. (Be sure to park legally here!) The total hike is about 1.5 miles: Walk on the paved road past the locked gate. In about 3/4 mile you come to the bridge across Mission Creek. Continue on the road, which is shortly no longer paved, past the turnoff to Tunnel Trail then turn left onto Jesusita Trail. Where this trail descends to the creek, turn right and hike upstream. For the next 1/4 mile the trail is in and out of the creek until you reach the narrows at the beginning of Seven Falls. LAT, LON : lat=34.4732, lon=-119.70799(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 12/08.


WHITE ROCK [WHIT]:Swimming places in the Santa Ynez river accessed from the White Rock Day Use Area in the Los Padres N. F.. Several N. F. campgrounds are nearby. From Santa Barbara, go west on RT 101 then northwest on RT 154 (San Marcos Rd.) past the San Marcos Pass into the Los Padres N. F.. Turn east (right) on Paradise Rd. and take that road past the Paradise Campground to the White Rock Day Use Area. Park here and scout the Santa Ynez river for swimming places. No better directions. LAT, LON : lat=34.54389, lon=-119.8047(source: map)(accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/08.

RED ROCKS [REDR]: Popular swimming place near Gibraltar Dam in the Los Padres N. F.. Can be pretty crowded on weekends. Litter too. Sandy beach and low rock to jump from. Here is a report from a disappointed visitor in 2005: "The place was wholly disappointing. Low water, lot's of trash and graffiti, and general evidence of abuse and over use. I was surprised since it is very remote and to get there you must travel a long, seemingly endless road. Maybe this place would be better earlier in the year during higher water, but it was rather unappealing. I didn't even go in the water!" Be forewarned!

From the White Rock Day Use Area (above) continue east on Paradise Rd. until it ends (you will have to ford the river several times). Park and hike on the lower trail near the Santa Ynez River for about .25 miles to the swimming hole. There may be more secluded swimming holes upstream from this one. LAT, LON : lat=34.53932, lon=-119.70625(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 12/08.

SESPE GORGE [SESP]: Two main swimming holes at this location, about 36 miles north of Ventura. There are about 4 places where you can jump, ranging in height from 10-30 feet. YOUTUBE . On weekends and after school (3pm) on hot days it gets crowded. To get here, from Santa Barbara take RT 101 south to exit 70B (near Ventura) then take RT 33 north through Ojai. Set your odometer where RT 33 crosses Fairview Rd. north of Ojai. Go about 19 miles more on RT 33 to the swimming places in Sepse Creek. (If you have a GPS, use the coordinates below to know when you are there). LAT, LON : lat=34.580343, lon=-119.260846(source: measured by another) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty. Not verified. Updated  3/2013.

PUNCHBOWLS [PUNC]: A series of huge swimming holes in Santa Paula Canyon near Santa Paula and Ojai. A pretty strenuous hike, multiple wet creek crossings, about 3.5 miles each way. YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE . From Ventura, take RT 126 east then take the 10th Street exit in Santa Paula. Turn left onto 10th Street. At the fourth traffic signal (the cross-street is Santa Paula St., bear slightly to the right; at this point 10th Street becomes Ojai Rd./CA-150. Continue on RT 150 about 5 miles to the area of Thomas Aquinas College. Park in the trailhead parking on the south (left) side of the road just east of (before) the bridge, across from Thomas Aquinas College. You will walk through a portion of the campus to reach the trailhead. The trail takes you through St.Thomas Aquinas College, then along the shady banks of Santa Paula creek to a series of giant swimming holes known as the Punchbowls. A spectacular 25 foot waterfall fills a rock pool just past Big Cone Camp. LAT, LON (drive to): lat=34.427571, lon=-119.089664 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 10/12.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 10/12



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SANTA CRUZ AREA
[4 PLACES]
(SANA)

NO PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SAN JOSE, SANTA CRUZ
STATE CA
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION Multiple swimming holes and jumping places near Santa Cruz. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Varies - see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies - see below
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Varies - see below
CAMPING Developed camping at Henry Cowell Redwoods S. P.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS Directions are from Santa Cruz:

HENRY COWELL REDWOODS S. P. [HENR]: Long-time swimming places in the San Lorenzo River in Henry Cowell State Park north of Santa Cruz. Developed camping also in the State Park. Park web Site . Directions begin at the main entrance to the State Park which is about 6 miles north of Santa Cruz on RT 9, just south of Felton. There is a fee to enter the park - you dont really have to enter the park to go to these places but it might help to go in and get a trail map first.   From the main park entrance, set your odometer and drive south on RT 9 (toward Santa Cruz).

The first place is called the "Garden of Eden Beach" and is very beautiful. PHOTO , PHOTO . About 1.3 miles south of the park entrance (just south of the Toll House Resort) on RT 9 is a big turnout parking area on the east side (left) of RT 9. Park and walk past the gate on the right which has small park rules signs. This is Ox Trail - take it steeply downhill and bear right to the railroad tracks. For Joyce's beach, follow the dirt path across the railroad tracks (there is no name to the beach so I named it after myself). Some people call this Huck Finn's Hollow. There are some trails down to the river and small beaches near here. PHOTO .

To get to the Garden of Eden Beach, turn right and walk along the railroad tracks until you see a trail on the left and a sign. Descend down the trail for about 1/4 of a mile or less to the beach or swimming hole. 
LAT, LON : lat=37.023392, lon=-122.058262 (source: measured by another) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.Note that in and around the Garden of Eden some people have chosen to use this area as clothing optional. However, this is generally not encouraged by the park.

Another place, at a deep, cool bend in the river, is called Big Rock Hole and is on the Rincon Trail. Drive south on RT 9 until you are about 3 miles south of the park entrance. There is a wide turnout on the east (left) side of RT 9 with a tree in the middle. The Rincon Fire Trail starts at the tree. Park and hike 1/2 mile downhill, wade across the river, then cross a sandy island to get to the Garden of Eden swimming hole.

There are some other swimming places along the Rincon Trail where it turns left and follows the river. If you stay left all the way the trail goes for 1-2 miles to Frisbee beach. Frisbee Beach Note the other place to swim at is called the "dam". There is a dam that forms a small swimming hole. This is just before Frisbee beach. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 4/2010.

JUNCTION PARK [JUNC]: Long-time swimming place with rope swing in the San Lorenzo River in a park in the town of Boulder Creek. PHOTO . From Felton and Henry Cowell Redwoods S. P. drive north on RT 9 to the town of Boulder Creek. Turn east (right) onto Middleton Rd. at the fire station. Junction Park is at the intersection of Middleton and Railroad Avenue. There is also a swimming place at a dam - DAM PHOTO , to get there, continue on Middleton Rd. and turn onto East Lomond Street. Park by the bridge and climb down to a small concrete dam. Junction park has limited parking, bathrooms, picnic tables, and great facilities for BBQ. LAT, LON lat=37.12609, lon=-122.12131(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 11/09.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 11/09



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SEQUOIA N. P. AREA
[4 PLACES]
(SEQU)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS FRESNO, BAKERSFIELD, VISALIA, THREE RIVERS, SEQUOIA N.P., SEQUOIA N. F.
STATE CA
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION Great swimming places near and in Sequoia National Park. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA Sequoia N. P.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies-see below
FACILITIES Varies-see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING In National Park
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Visalia (between Fresno and Bakersfield) take RT 198 east to the town of Three Rivers then:

 
MARBLE FORK [MARB]: Continue east on RT 198 into Sequoia N. P.(called "General's Hwy" in the park) to the Potwisha Campground. In the campground, across from site #15, is a short dirt road to a small parking area. A trail leaves this area and goes upstream along the Marble Fork. (If you cannot park in this small area, park in a large area across the road from the campground and walk in). Go past the chain across the trail and walk up this trail. There are spur trails on the left that go down to the creek. The first hole is at the end of the first spur trail. PHOTO . It is large and deep and has a rope swing on a tree on the opposite shore. There are said to be other swimming holes further up this trail. LAT, LON : lat=36.5196, lon=-118.8013(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 4/2008. Updated 4/24/08.


PARADISE CREEK [PARC]: Continue east on RT 198 in Sequoia N. P. to the Buckeye Flats Campground. The hike begins on the east side of the campground near site 28 (not sure where to park if you are not camping). The Paradise Creek Trail goes along the north bank of the Kaweah River (not the swimming place) and then goes down to cross a wooden bridge. Cross the bridge and continue straight on the trail to Paradise Creek. The trail turns and goes up Paradise Creek to several falls and pools for swimming. LAT, LON : lat=36.51831, lon=-118.76064(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 11/09.

TOKOPAH FALLS [TOKO]: Continue on RT 198 to Lodgepole Village and campground. In the campground, go past the market/nature center then turn left toward campsites 151 to 214 - the trail to the falls begins on the right just after you make this turn. Take the trail for the easy hike to Tokopah Falls. You will find nice swimming holes and flat rocks (for sunning) 1.25 miles in. LAT, LON : lat=36.6085, lon=-118.6909(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Partially verified 4/08. Updated 4/24/08.

STONY CREEK [STON]: Continue on RT 198 to Stony Creek Village. Behind the lodge hike downstream about .5 miles on Stony Creek for several popular swimming holes and a natural water slide.  PHOTO   PHOTO  (Watch the locals on the slide to avoid hurting your butt!). LAT, LON : lat=36.665693, lon=-118.834486(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Partially verified 4/08. Updated 4/24/08.

CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED Yes, partially
DATE UPDATED 4/24/08



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SMITH RIVER AREA
[3+ PLACES]
(SMIT)

NO PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TOWNS CRESCENT CITY (CA), GRANTS PASS(OR)
STATE CA
WATER Middle Fork and South Fork of the Smith River
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION East of Crescent City, which is on the extreme northern coast of California, among the giant redwoods are lots of swimming holes in the Middle Fork and South Fork of the Smith River. Some are in Jedediah Smith S. P. and the rest are in the Six Rivers N. F.. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Jedediah Smith S. P. and Six Rivers N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES All facilities in the S. P.
ACTIVITIES Swimming, tubing
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING In Jedediah Smith S. P.
BATHING SUITS Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS From Crescent City, which is on the extreme northern coast of California, take RT 199 east, then:

MIDDLE FORK SMITH RIVER [MIDS]: After you pass the Jedediah Smith S. P. on scenic route 199, the road begins to parallel the Middle Fork Smith River for about 33 miles, eventually going into Oregon. There are many swimming holes along here, said to be deep, clear and clean. No specific directions - look for parked cars and folks enjoying the water (on a warm day, there may be many!). (There may also be an unofficial sandy beach on the river right in the State Park too.)

For more info see: Jedediah Smith S. P., Link to picture of swimming hole on Middle Fork . LAT, LON lat=41.8182, lon=-124.0383(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Pretty confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

SOUTH FORK SMITH RIVER [SOUS]: If you want a little more solitude and some hiking, the South Fork Smith River may be for you. To get here, after you pass the Jedediah Smith S. P. on RT 199, continue to milepost 7.2 on RT 199, turn right (south) onto South Fork road (RT 427) and continue 13.7 miles to the G-O Road (Forest Service Route 15). Turn right onto the G-O Road and travel 3.5 miles to FS road 15N39 on the left - turn left. Follow this gravel road 2 miles to the South Kelsey trailhead at the end of the road. TRAILHEAD: LAT, LON lat=41.65347, lon=-123.86478(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

Park and follow the South Kelsey trail down to the river and walk upstream along the river about 1 mile to where Buck Creek comes in from the south - the Buck Creek campsite and a large swimming hole are here. FIRST HOLE: LAT, LON lat=41.6505, lon=-123.8461(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

If you continue to hike upstream about another 2.75 miles to where Eightmile Creek comes in, there is another large swimming hole here. SECOND HOLE: LAT, LON lat=41.6433, lon=-123.8097 (source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Pretty confident. Updated 12/4/2006.

CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 12/4/2006



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


STANDISH HICKEY AREA
[2 PLACES]
(STAH)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS EUREKA,LEGGETT,GARBERVILLE
STATE CA
WATER South Eel River
TYPE RIVER
DESCRIPTION A couple of family-friendly places to cool off on RT 101 about mid-way between Eureka and SF. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Standish Hickey SRA, Smith Redwoods State Reserve
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Day use fee at Standish Hickey
FACILITIES All facilities in Standish Hickey
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE 707-925-6482 (Standish Hickey)
CAMPING Camping at Standish Hickey
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS Go to Leggett, on RT 101 about mid-way between Eureka and SF (where RT 101 going north turns from 4 lane to 2 lane and RT 1 goes off to the west) go north on RT 101, then:

STANDISH HICKEY S.P.[STAN]: A short downhill hike (uphill returning!) to a popular swimming place in the South Eel River in the Standish Hickey S. P. . PHOTO. Here there is a rock outcrop and sandy beach area and deep pool (and no shade - take your hat and sunscreen!). To get here from Legett, go north on RT 101 about 1.5 miles to the Standish Hickey State Park. The swimming hole in the South Eel River here is accessed from the Day Use Area. Pay day use fee, park in the Day Use Area and walk past the campfire area then follow a path downhill about .3 miles to the river far below. LAT, LON lat=39.87931, lon=-123.73806(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Verified. Very confident. Updated 4/2010.

SMITHE REDWOODS STATE RESERVE [SMIT]: Swimming places in the Eel River for the little ones and the not-so-little ones too! No fee here. To get here, continue north on RT 101 from Standish Hickey and, just before you cross Dora Creek, there is a turn out on the west side of the road - the Frank and Bess Smithe Grove. Park here and walk down to the river where there is shallow place for the little ones. If you walk north (downstream) along the river you come to a bend where there is a deeper place and rocks to jump from. LAT, LON lat=39.8986, lon=-123.7511(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Very confident. Updated 4/2010.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 4/2010



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SWITZER FALLS
(SWIT)

YOUTUBE TO STATE MAP
TOWNS PASADENA, ALTADENA
LAT, LON lat=34.26640, lon=-118.14483(source: map) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER the Upper Arroyo Seco River
TYPE Falls
DESCRIPTION Hike 4.5 miles (round trip) to very popular falls. INFO ABOUT FALLS .
AREA Angeles National Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Yes. Must buy Adventure Pass prior to driving up here. Some sold at Clear Creek Ranger Station.
FACILITIES Picnic tables, toilets
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING No camping at the site.
BATHING SUITS Customary (very popular)
DIRECTIONS From I-210 (Foothills Fwy), Exit 20 (in Pasadena) take RT 2 (Angeles Crest Hwy) north (into the National Forest) for a total of about 10 miles to the Switzer Falls picnic area. Park here (very crowded on weekends). For very detailed hiking directions, see this page: YELP INFO
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/2013

This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


TAHOE AREA
7 PLACES]
(TAHO)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS TRUCKEE, TAHOE CITY, SQUAW VALLEY
LAT, LON lat=39.139, lon=-120.244(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE CA
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION Several swimming holes in California, west and south of Lake Tahoe - including the Eldorado N. F. and Desolation Wilderness. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREA Varies - see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Unknown
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS SHIRLEY CANYON [SHIR]: The waterfall pools along the Shirley Canyon trail in Squaw Valley offer the perfect chance to cool off. It is a great, beautiful hike up Shirley Canyon any time of year but this is a very seasonal swimming place. The flow may be too strong in spring and too little late in the summer - so be careful. Along the trail, there are several pools large enough to take a dip or to swim, depending on the flow level.

To get here: From exit 194 on I-80 (near Truckee), go south on RT 89 to the signs on the right for "Squaw Valley". Turn west (right) on Squaw Valley Rd., follow the main road to the west through the entire Squaw Valley development area until you come to the westernmost end of the road where there are condominium buildings. The trailhead is rather apparent in between the condo buildings. Park here, but be careful NOT to park in the private condo parking areas - there is public parking along the road right at the trailhead for the Shirley Canyon trail. Hike up this beautiful trail along Squaw Creek and you will find pools of various sizes. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT, LON lat=39.203892, lon=-120.251241(source: google maps) (accuracy:general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Verified. Very confident. Updated 12/6/06.

SHIRLEY LAKE [SHIL]: If you continue up this canyon (about 2.5 miles one way from the parking area), you will come to the pristine, beautiful Shirley Lake, which is described by a visitor:"The real gem here is Shirley Lake. It's a small alpine pond filled with crystal clear, snowmelt offering an arctic dip in the hottest heat of summer. Edged with snow even in July, the beauty of Shirley Lake is beyond description." PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . Polar bear swimming! SHIRLEY LAKE: LAT, LON lat=39.20217, lon=-120.27053(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Verified. Very confident. Updated 12/6/06.

FIVE LAKES [FIVL]: Somewhat steep hike, 2.5 miles each way, to mountain lakes with several swimming spots.  Continue south on RT 89 (from Squaw Valley Rd. above) and, in less than 2 miles, turn west (right) on Alpine Meadows Rd..  Drive about 2 miles on Alpine Meadows Rd. to the Five Lakes Trailhead (small sign just off the road) on the right.   Hike 2.5 miles (climbing about 1000 feet) on the sunny trail (take a hat and water).  INFO ON HIKE MORE INFO ON HIKE.  You will enter the Granite Chief Wilderness then shortly come to the first lake on your left.  If you continue on the trail, the two largest lakes will be on your left also.  There are some nice swimming spots with large rocks to enter from on these two lakes and the small stream connecting them.  LAT, LON (of trailhead) lat=39.17935, lon=-120.22970 (source:map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. LAT, LON (of lakes) lat=39.17535, lon=-120.25227 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Very confident. Updated 9/2014.


TRUCKEE RIVER [TRUC]: Continue south on RT 89 (from above) and the road continues to parallel the Truckee River. There are ample opportunities to swim in the river, however, there is a very deep, very large swimming hole here: after you pass Alpine Meadows road on your right go approximately 2 miles more and look for a small dirt pull off on the right side of the road near the rather obvious swimming hole. RT 89 is rather featureless and it is difficult to give meaningful points of reference. However, if you keep an eye to the river as you are traveling south on RT 89, you will easily spot this large swimming area.in the Truckee River offers one of the best places to swim. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 .

There is a commercial tubing rafting operation near Lake Tahoe that rents tubes and rafts to travel up the Truckee River. The flow along the river is controlled by a dam release, so water levels can vary dramatically but even when the water is very low and many people have to walk their tubes and rafts through the water this swimming hole remains nice and cool and deep. There are several campgrounds on RT 28 and RT 89 circling Lake Tahoe. LAT, LON lat=39.16503, lon=-120.17415(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Verified. Very confident. Updated 12/5/06.

THE POTHOLES ON SILVER FORK [POTH]: The Silver Fork of the American River begins at Silver Lake and forms some potholes on a granite rock surface which are great for swimming. See the web site ABOUT LAKE TAHOE for photos and details. To get here from Tahoe, continue south on RT 89 to Picketts Junction then turn east (right) on RT 88 and continue past Kirkwood toward Silver Lake. Just past the Silver Lake West Campground (on the north side) is a road on the south side to Kit Carson lodge. Park here on the south side, cross the road and walk through the campground (or, if you are camping here, no need to park!) Follow the trail that goes along the river and walk (easy hike) about 20 minutes to the potholes. LAT, LON : lat=38.67906, lon=-120.13127(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/10/2005.

MOORE CREEK [MOOR]: Swimming hole in the North Fork Mokelumne River at a national forest campground. To get here from Siler Lake (above) continue west on RT 88 about 15 miles then turn south (left) on Ellis Rd. (FR 92) at the signs for Lumberyard Campground. Go about 8.5 miles south on Ellis Rd. then turn east (left) on Salt Springs Rd. (FR 8N50) and go about 2.5 miles then turn east on FR 7N08 and go about .5 miles to the Moore Creek campground, The swimming hole is very near here. See the web site MOORE CREEK . LAT, LON : lat=38.47883, lon=-120.26864(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 1/4/2006.

GROVER HOT SPRINGS S. P.[GROV]: Grover has hot and cold both. Naturally hot water is led into a concrete swimming pool (next to a cool swimming pool) and, with a short hike of about 1.5 miles each way, a waterfall with a cool place to swim in the pool below. Camping and all facilities are at the State Park. LAT, LON : lat=38.7008, lon=-119.8392(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here from Tahoe or Picketts Junction, continue south on RT 89 to Markleeville. Follow signs to Grover Hot Springs S. P..

The hot and cool pools are well signed once you are in the State Park - there is a $5.00 per person/per use fee (in 2004) to use the hot/cold pools.

To get to the swimming hole at the falls, hike about 1.5 miles each way and cool off in a swimming hole in the Hot Springs Creek. Here is a quote from web site: "The trail starts at the end of the campground on a dirt road ($3.00 per vehicle parking fee.) This is the Burnside Lake Trail. There are a couple junctions to look for. Shortly after starting the hike, you will come to a junction with a single track trail to the left. Follow this trail. Then at about 1 mile, you reach another trail junction. Go left to follow Hot Springs Creek (the Burnside Lake Trail continues right). When you come to a boulder-filled area, you need to climb straight up and over the boulders (do not go down to the creek here). After you climb over the boulders, pick up the trail again. The waterfall is only a few minutes away." LAT, LON :lat=38.69819, lon=-119.86321(source: above web site) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident, Verified 9/04. Updated 9/24/2004.

CONFIDENCE Varies-see above
VERIFIED Varies-see above
DATE UPDATED 1/10/2005



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


TULE RIVER AREA
[3 PLACES]
(TULE)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BAKERSFIELD, PORTERVILLE
STATE CA
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION Swimming places in Sequoia National Forest. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA Sequoia N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies-see below
FACILITIES Varies-see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING At Camp Wishon or Hidden Falls or several others
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Bakersfield take RT 99 north to RT 65 north to Porterville. In Porterville, take RT 190 east past Lake Success and Springville into the Sequoia N. F., then:

HIDDEN FALLS [HIDD]: Easy access from the Hidden Falls N. F. Campground to a beautiful falls and shallow pool below (not really deep enough to swim) in the Middle Fork Tule River. To get here from Springville, go east on RT 190 a short way and turn north (left) on Balach Park Rd and go 3.4 miles then turn east (right) on Bear Creek Mtn. Rd.. Continue up this narrow, winding road, keeping right at the Mountain Home Conservation Camp (a correctional facility). Follow signs to Hidden Falls Campground. The falls is an easy hike from the campground. LAT, LON : lat=36.2569, lon=-118.6625 (source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. (There are also said to be swimming holes to be found by driving to Moses Gulch Campground, which is a short way south of Hidden Falls Campground, and hiking downstream from there.) Pretty confident. Partially verified 4/08. Updated 4/24/08.

LOWER COFFEE CAMP [LOWC]: Picnic area by the Middle Fork Tule River that has also a great swimming place. PHOTO . To get here from Springville, continue east on RT 190 (past Balach Park Rd. above) to the signs for the Lower Coffee Camp Day Use Area. The swimming place is right here in the river. Toilets and picnic tables too - no camping here. LAT, LON : lat=36.1490, lon=-118.7525 (source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified. Updated 4/24/08.

CAMP WISHON [CAMW]: Swimming place in North Fork Tule River at Wishon national forest campground. YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE . To get here from LOWER COFFEE CAMP (above), continue east on RT 190 for about 4 miles then turn north (left) on Wishon Dr. then, in a short distance, keep right to stay on Wishon Dr., (becomes Forest Road 208) and go about 4 lies to the Wishon campground. The swimming place is in the river at this campground. LAT, LON : lat=36.18899, lon=-118.66119 (source: Map) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2013.

CONFIDENCE Varies- see above
VERIFIED Varies- see above
DATE UPDATED 3/2013



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


VAN DUZEN RIVER AREA
[ 5 PLACES]
(VANA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS EUREKA, FORTUNA
STATE CA
WATER Van Duzen River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Many family-friendly swimming places in the Van Duzen River. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA near Grizzly Creek Redwoods S. P.
SANCTION Varies - see below
FEE Varies - see below
FACILITIES Varies - see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE none
CAMPING Camping at Van Duzen County Park and Grizzly Creek Redwoods S. P.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Eureka, go 20 miles southeast on RT 101 to Fortuna, then turn east on RT 36 (set odometer) and drive about 10 miles. Then:

PAMPLIN GROVE [PAMP]: Just past 10 miles, slow down and on the right see a suddenly-appearing small driveway between trees with a very small sign that says "Pamplin Grove" (a detached part of Van Duzen County Park). This place is sometimes closed, but if it is open pay the fee and go to the day use area. Walk down to the river and here is a great swimming hole. LAT, LON : lat=40.49955, lon=-123.98236(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

VAN DUZEN COUNTY PARK [VAND]: Continue east on RT 36 another couple of miles and come to the main part of Van Duzen County Park. There is camping and picnicking here and toilet facilities. There are two swimming places:

First: After you pay the fee, turn immediately left and park in the gravel lot. Walk down the short path to the dry gravel river bed then turn left and walk over the gravel to the water. PHOTO . LAT, LON : lat=40.48748, lon=-123.97184(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

Second: "Swimmmers Delight" - After you pay the fee, go straight and keep right to the day use area by the river. This is a great swimming place and very popular BUT it was closed in 8/2008 because of rocks that fall from the bluffs above. Don't know when it might re-open. PHOTO . LAT, LON : lat=40.48913, lon=-123.97874(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

CHEATHAM GROVE [CHEA]: A short way past the Van Duzen County Park on RT 36 you will cross a bridge over the Van Duzen River. Turn left and park at Cheatham (redwood) Grove just past the bridge. No fee, no facilities. The swimming hole is under the bridge. PHOTO . But the real stars here are the spectacular redwoods, so take a stroll through the grove for sure! REDWOODS PHOTO . LAT, LON : lat=40.48326, lon=-123.96289(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

GRIZZLY REDWOODS S. P. [GRIZ]: A really cool, family-type swimming hole! PHOTO . Camping at the site, all facilities. Day use fee about $6. PARK WEB SITE . To get here: Go about 5 miles more east on RT 36 and see signs for the state park. Enter, pay fee and go to the day use area on the right. Walk past the outdoor amphitheater down to the river and enjoy! LAT, LON : lat=40.48684, lon=-123.90512 (source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 8/08
DATE UPDATED 8/9/2008



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


WILLOW CREEK AREA
[7 PLACES]
(WILA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS REDDING, HELENA, WILLOW CREEK
STATE CA
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION Very scenic RT 299 runs west from Redding on I-5 to the Eureka area, mostly along the Trinity River. There are a number of fine swimming holes along here in the Trinity River and tributaries. See "DIRECTIONS" below for details.
AREA Shasta-Trinity N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Varies-see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming, tubing
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at a number of N.F. campgrounds along this route.
BATHING SUITS Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS Directions below are from east to west. From Redding, take RT 299 west to Helena, then:

PARADISE POOLS [PARA]: Very clear water pools below rocky bluffs in the North Fork Trinity River. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . To get here, in Helena, go north on East Fork Rd about 1 mile and cross the bridge over the river then park in a clearing on the left just past the bridge. Walk on a path (sometimes narrow and high above the river) about .25 miles upstream from here to a series of pools in the river below. LAT, LON : lat=40.78722, lon=-123.135(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

BIG FLAT [BIGF]: Climb down a path to a scenic swimming place in the Trinity River west of Helena. Cool rock formations. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. To get here, continue west on RT 299 from Helena. Just past the town of "Big Flat", see on the right a sign that says "Turn out to allow passing". Park here in a large area on the south (left) side of the road and take a path that descends to the river to a sandy beach by a large rock. LAT, LON : lat=40.73628, lon=-123.19359 (source: Measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

SKUNK POINT [SKUN]: A not-so-pretty name for a nice, family swimming hole at a N.F. picnic area. Picnic tables and rest rooms. Pretty spot to eat and play in the Trinity River. PHOTO . To get here from Big Flat (above), continue a short way west on RT 299 until you see the signs for the Skunk Point Picnic Area on the south (left) side. LAT, LON : lat=40.73655, lon=-123.23438(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.


TISH TANG [TISH]: Swim in a big sweep of the Trinity River at an established Hoopa Indian Reservation campground and park. Pay $3 day use fee, unknown fee for camping. There is an expansive gravel bar here along the river - park and walk along the gravel to the river unless you are sure your vehicle will not get bogged down. PHOTO . To get here, continue west from Skunk Point (above) on RT 299 to Willow Creek then turn north on RT 96 and go about 8 miles to the signs for the Tish Tang Park on the right. Drive down the dirt road to the gravel then park and walk over the gravel to the river. There is a rock to jump from at the south end of the gravel bar. LAT, LON : lat=41.023, lon=-123.638(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

BIG BAR [BIGB]: Another big sweep of the Trinity River to swim at. No fee. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . To get here from Tish Tang (above), continue north on RT 96 through Weitchpec then go about another 10 miles to signs for the Big Bar area on the right. LAT, LON : lat=41.25210, lon=-123.63610(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.

BOISE [BOIS]: A delightful little Jacuzzi drop and pool in Willow Creek behind the Boise N.F. campground. Cold water! PHOTO . This is back on RT 299 just west of Willow Creek. See the sign for the Boise campground. Either camp there (nice spot) or ask the host if and where you can park to go down to the swimming hole. Go to the trail at the rear of the campground and hike down the somewhat steep but very short and do-able trail to the river. It is a loop trail but both loops go to the swimming hole at the bottom. LAT, LON : lat=40.9466, lon=-123.65968(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.


FISH HATCHERY [FISH]: Not the greatest swimming hole but a really nice walk along the Mad River under the cottonwoods to a traditionally-clothing-optional remote swimming area in the river. Water may be shallow in the heat of summer. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . This is a long way west on RT 299 from Willow Creek (or east of Arcata) in the town of Blue Lake. Take the Blue Lake exit from RT 299 and drive a short way to Chartin Rd. where you go right then in a short distance go left on South Railroad St.. Go to the end of South Railroad St. then go right on Hatchery Rd. and go a couple of miles to the Mad River Fish Hatchery at the end of Hatchery Rd..

Keep to the right and drive to the far end of the parking area at the fish hatchery where there is a picnic table and rest room. Park here and walk through the fence opening past the sign that says "Fishing Access for Handicapped". Walk to the right alongside and parallel to the tanks on an asphalt path. When the asphalt ends, continue straight on a dirt path. In a short way this path will end where there is a short rocky descent to the river. Go down the rocks (easy path) and ford the river if currents permit - it may be waist deep or deeper at the far side here so be ready for this and don't try to cross if it is too deep or too swift. There is no bridge.

On the far side, walk in the upstream direction (there is an old road you can walk on) for about .5 miles until you come past the first river bend and find clothing-optional swimming places and small beachy areas. LAT, LON : lat=40.84594 lon=-123.98465(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/9/2008.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 8/2008
DATE UPDATED 8/9/2008



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


YOSEMITE N. P. AREA
[14 PLACES]
(YOSE)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS MERCED, YOSEMITE VILLAGE
STATE CA
WATER Varies -see below
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION There are many swimming holes in Yosemite - here are a few where visitors may pretty-much legally swim. See "DIRECTIONS" below for details.
AREA Yosemite N. P.
SANCTION Unknown
FEE May be a fee to enter Yosemite N.P. depending on where you enter.
FACILITIES All facilities at the park.
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING At the Park - get reservations if you want to stay in the valley. There are tents and cabins in Curry Village in the Yosemite Valley. There is a campground at Wawona as well - probably less crowded because it isn't in the Valley.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS Along RT 140 from Mariposa/southwest entrance and Yosemite valley area:

BRYCEBURG RECREATION AREA [BRYC]: Camping, rafting and swimming in a BLM Recreation Area along the Merced River. BLM INFO . From Mariposa, take RT 140 12 miles to Bryceburg. At Bryceburg, cross the bridge over the Merced River and drive downstream on an old railroad grade that is now a road (appears to be a dead end). There are several campgrounds and swimming holes along here. No better directions. LAT, LON lat=37.59589, lon=-119.98450(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/2008.

HITES COVE [HITE]: A place to swim in the South Fork Merced River, a hike off of RT 140. Take Rt 140 (past Bryceburg, above) to where the Merced River and South Fork Merced Rivers come together at a large bridge. Park at a turnout on the north side of the bridge and cross the road and go toward the river (there are some chalets here). Find the trail along the South Fork and follow it toward the Hites Cove area. There will be some side trails off to the river and swimming holes. No better directions. LAT, LON lat=37.64972, lon=-119.88503(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 5/2007.

MERCED RIVER [MERC]: A favorite spot to swim in Yosemite Valley off RT 140. Continue east on RT 140 and swim in the Merced River at the sandy bars between Clark's Bridge and Sentinel Beach near Housekeeping Camp beach. LAT, LON lat=37.74178, lon=-119.58331(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 5/2007.

Along RT 41 from Oakhurst/south entrance to Yosemite (no fee at this entrance):

FISH CAMP FALLS [FISF]: Three falls and two swimming holes. The middle hole is popular due to the sculptured granite. The top falls is the most photogenic. There is no real swimming hole at the first falls.  All the falls are about 25 feet in height. To get here from Oakhurst, drive north on RT 41 for 15 miles to the turn off on Big Sandy Road (aka Jackson Rd.) about 0.5 miles south of Fish Camp. Set odometer.  Turn east (right) and drive 2.5 miles to a dirt pullout on the right. On the left is a metal gate. Go past the gate and follow the trail past an old abandoned cabin. The trail tracks along the flume for about 0.5 miles until you reach the first falls. The other two falls are about 300 yards beyond the first falls. The trail ends at the top of the last falls. LAT, LON lat=37.47073, lon=-119.61622(source: map) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.Very confident. Verified by Tim Joyce. Updated 8/10.

SKINNY DIP [SKIN]: Two falls with steep slab rocks and small, deep pools at the bottom. YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE .  To get here from Fish Camp Falls, continue east on Big Sandy Road (aka Jackson Rd.) another 1.0 miles up the hill for a total of 3.5 miles from RT 41. Skinny Dip is a little difficult to locate, but the GPS coordinates(below) should be correct. On Big Sandy Rd. there is a small pull off on the right just before the road banks to the left. The trail down to the river is covered over by some tree branches. It is right over a small drain pipe. You can't see the drain pipe easily either unless you traverse over the side of the road slightly. LAT, LON lat=37.46694444, lon=-119.6041667 (source: measured-p)(accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

Just downstream from Skinny Dip (about 200 yards) are the slabs and several swimmable pools called ARROWHEAD (may be fewer people too than Skinny Dip). LAT, LON lat=37.4672, lon=-119.6075 (source: measured-p)(accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  It is basically a few slabs downstream and easy to get to from Skinny Dip. To get to Arrowhead just go to Skinny Dip and walk down stream. That is the easiest way. Very confident. Verified by Tim Joyce. Updated 8/10.

WAWONA [WAWO]: Another favorite spot to swim in Yosemite but not in the Valley - it is in the South Fork Merced River near the Wawona Hotel on RT 41 near the south border of the park. Maybe not as crowded as places in the Valley. To get here, continue north on RT 41 from Fish Camp and go to Wawona. To get here from the Wawona Hotel, walk the path from the hotel to the old barn (for square dances) and follow the road beside the barn to the end of the road and walk down the path there to the swinging bridge to the river on the left. LAT, LON lat=37.53869, lon=-119.65583(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 5/2007.

CHILNUALNA CREEK [CHIL]: Near the one above, but an uphill hike of about 1 mile to get there. Enter the park near the south side on RT 41 and go to Wawona (see above also). Go past the Wawona with the Golf Course on the left. Chilnualna Rd. will be about 0.5 miles on the right. It is a sharp right turn and easy to miss. The road continues for about 2 miles and weaves its way through a series of homes, schools and town homes. You will come to an incline and the dirt parking lot will be on the right. There is a bathroom here. The trail head and trail are actually up on the left about another 1/4 of a mile. If you reach a bridge going over Chilnualna Creek you have gone too far.

The trail climbs along the creek which will be to your right. The lower Chilnualna Creek Falls are about 0.5 miles up the trail. You can't miss them. Hike about 1 mile up this trail and, where the trail goes off to the left, keep to the right and go another .25 miles upstream. Here there is a beautifully contoured rock basin and a great swimming hole. Photo of lower Chilnualna Falls . Locals refer to this swimming hole as "The Ledge", for obvious reasons. This is not an easy swimming hole to reach and requires a third class scramble to reach it. It is not recommended early in the year because the water flow is fairly high and in at least one point you must cross the falls and river (ropes are recommended for early spring). Further, the easiest approach is via the rocks adjacent to the falls. This area can get quite slippery in spring and early summer. Later in the summer it should be dry.

"Honeymooners" is a clothing optional tub which is positioned just above "The Ledge". It can only be accessed by ascending a very steep small path on the east side of the creek (right side looking at the rocks). It ascends between the rocks. A trail then runs along the top of the cliff and descends down to a dangerous ledge which you must "tip toe" across to reach the tubs. These tubs are clothing optional and can not be easily viewed from below. However, from the tubs the entire creek is visible. One local said she saw a bear on the adjoining cliff one year, so take precautions.

For some pictures of "The Ledge" and "Honeymooners" see swimmingholesofcalifornia.blogspot . Note that both Honeymooners and The Ledge are not family friendly swimming holes because they require some extensive climbing on third class scrambles.

If you go back and continue up the main trail another 3 miles you will get to Chilnualna Falls which is another water-play place. LAT, LON lat=37.55544, lon=-119.62722(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 5/2007.

Along RT 120 from Groveland/northwest entrance to Yosemite:

RAINBOW POOLS [RAIP]: The Rainbow Pools are popular swimming hole on the south fork of the Tuolumne river. You can swim, jump from low ledges or watch courageous kids jump from the very high ones.
PHOTO, PHOTO , YOUTUBE .  To get here from Groveland (western side of Yosemite) go about 13 miles east on RT 120 (toward Yosemite National Park). The Rainbow Pool turnoff is on the right just before the highway bridge over the South Fork of the Tuolumne River. This is just before the road to Cherry Lake/Sweetwater Camp on the left. There is a marker sign and the road proceeds down to the falls. The road is one way and there are parking and bathrooms near the falls.  For some beautiful photos of Rainbow Falls please see waterfallpage.blogspot.com , swimmingholesofcalifornia.blogspot.com ,  link to pictures and history . LAT, LON lat=37.82156, lon=-120.01236(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 5/31/2010.


CARLON FALLS [CARL]: A 15-foot waterfall on the South Fork Tuolumne River feeds a popular swimming hole - cold relief on a summer day. LOTS OF INFO ON WEB SITE , YOUTUBE . To get here, continue on RT 120 and look for the turnoff to Camp Mather and Hetchy Hetchy and turn onto Evergreen Road. About a mile on Evergreen Road look for a pullout on the north side of the bridge near the "Carlon Day Use Area" sign. This pullout is where the Carlon Falls Trail begins. LAT,LON lat=37.81412, Lon=-119.86170 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 10/2012.


CASCADE CREEK [CASC]: (Description, photos and directions by Timothy H. Joyce, used by permission) Beautifully wooded, boulder-lined, aquamarine creek in Yosemite N. P. near Crane Flat and Tamarack Flat.  PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO . The hike to Cascade Creek is about 2 to 2.4 miles one way or 4-5 miles roundtrip. Save enough energy for the hike back since it is all uphill. You are also at fairly high elevation, so bring lots of extra water!  This is a moderate level hike.
 LAT, LON (of the Tamarack Flat campground) lat=37.752, lon=-119.737 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  LAT, LON (of Cascade Creek) lat=37.7425, lon=-119.7055 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 10/12.
To get here, continue east on RT 120 from Rainbow Pools (above) to  Crane Flat Campground. Then drive northeast 3.75 miles up the Tioga Road to the Tamarack Flat Campground turnoff, immediately before the Gin Flat scenic turnout. Drive southeast down the old Big Oak Flat Road to the east end of Tamarack Flat Campground, 3.25 miles. The road is paved and slightly bumpy, but in good shape.

The hiking trail is the actual road you are driving on. Access will be blocked at a turn around point at the end of the campground. There are bathrooms at the campground. Just before you reach a prominent cluster of rocks--ideal for rock-climbing practice--your road begins a steady descent to Cascade Creek. At a road switchback just 240 yards before the bridge across this creek, you'll see a junction with a trail to the new Big Oak Flat Road.  Along the first 200 yards below its bridge, Cascade Creek splashes down low cascades into small pools,
and in late season these make nice "swimming holes." Before then the creek is likely to be too swift for safe frolicking, particularly since the water-polished rock can be quite slippery. Explore up and down stream (no real trail) to find the places in the photos.

 

POHONO BRIDGE [POHO]: Nice little swimming hole in the Merced River in the heart of the Yosemite Valley under a bridge. To get here continue east on RT 120 then turn south (right) on Big Oak Rd. and/or just head for Yosemite Village on RT 140. Take RT 140 east toward Yosemite Village . Where RT 140 forks, to become Northside Dr and Southside Dr., turn right and, here the Pohono Bridge crosses the river. The swimming place is here. Link to pictures , YOUTUBE . LAT, LON lat=37.7166, lon=-119.666(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 4/2010.


TUOLUMNE/WATERWHEEL [TUOW]: Here's a several-day backpacking hike featuring spectacular waterfalls and swimming holes along the Tuolumne River - at least 20 miles roundtrip to the swimming areas, 40 miles roundtrip if you do the entire trail. The trailhead is north of the valley, on RT 120 (Tioga Road) near Lembert Dome, which is well signed. Park at the trailhead and take the Waterwheel Falls/Pate Valley trail to the west along the Tuolumne River. You will pass California Falls and shortly after Waterwheel Falls Return Creek will come in from the north. From here to Pate Valley there are said to be numerous swimming holes along this trail. No better directions. LAT, LON lat=37.93172, lon=-119.46569(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 5/2007.

From Coulterville, which is south of Groveland at RT 49 and RT 132, also on the west side of Yosemite:

DIANA FALLS [DIAN]:Huge, deep hole in a rocky basin at the foot of Diana Falls. To get here from Coulterville, follow Main St. out of town to the east. Main St. becomes Greeley Hill Road. Follow Greeley Hill Road up the hill and all the way until the Bridge over the North Fork of the Merced River. Greeley Hill Road forks at the top of the hill. Make sure to stay right at the fork. That is it! There is trash and graffiti at this site and there is often a forest service ranger parked on the road to watch the parking lot for abuse.

Note that the trail is well marked and there is a gate near the parking area. The parking area will be on the left side of the road just before the bridge. Note that if you cross the bridge and go too far, the road changes to dirt. The hike in is about 1 mile to the confluence of Bean Creek. The falls are about 200 yards further up the trail on Bean Creek and will be on your left. Also, there are a few tubs down stream from the falls. They tend to be clothing optional and hidden. LAT, LON lat=37.7433, lon=-120.0455(source: Measured by another) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 4/2010.

CONFIDENCE See above
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 4/2010



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


YUBA RIVER AREA
[12 PLACES]
(YUBA)

PHOTOS BELOW
YOUTUBE
YOUTUBE
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS SACRAMENTO, YUBA CITY, NEVADA CITY
STATE CA
WATER South Yuba River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Many swimming holes in the branches of the Yuba River and tributaries, near Nevada City. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREA Tahoe National Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Nearby - see below
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Sacramento, take I-80 northeast to Exit 119 at Auburn. Take Rt 49 north toward Grass Valley. (Note that Rt 49 and Rt 20 overlap at one point.) Follow Rt 49/20 into Nevada City. Then:

EDWARDS CROSSING [EDWC]: Apparently a very popular (i.e., crowded) spot on the South Yuba but quieter places are nearby. PHOTO , PHOTO.  To get here from Nevada City, at the split of Rt 20 and Rt 49 in Nevada City turn left (sharp left) (Nevada City Carriage Company is on the right). Drive for about 1/4 of a mile or less. North Bloomfield road is the second road on the right after Coyote Rd.( there is a fire station at the corner). Take North Bloomfield road for about 1 mile until the "T" in the road and bear right.

Follow North Bloomfield road for about 8 miles until the South Yuba Recreation area and Edwards Crossing. The last mile of road to Edwards Crossing is very narrow and steep, so take it slow. The road is paved all the way until Edwards Crossing. It is much better to approach Edwards Crossing from the south side of the bridge. The road on the north side is not paved. Also, the parking is on the south side of the bridge and that is where the bathrooms are located.

This is a very popular place so get there early since the parking can fill up quickly. ("I got there at 9 AM and was the only one there in April. However, at 11 AM there were about 40 cars!!!") This place is right here under the bridge. LAT, LON : lat=39.330197, lon=-120.984125 (source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 6/2010.


MOUNTAIN DOG  [MOUN]:    Where Spring Creek comes into the South Yuba, there is a small falls and nice swimming hole - bathing suits optional. Park at Edwards Crossing (above), but avoid the crowds by hiking downstream on a trail along the north side of the river about a mile to the side creek and falls. PHOTO, PHOTO , PHOTO , YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE .  .    For a beautiful view of the swimming area and a video taken in April, 2010, please see swimmingholesofcalifornia.blogspot.com/.The trail to "Spring Creek" is located on the north side of the bridge. It is easy to find and locate. The hike is about 1 mile to the creek and swimming holes. Here, and a bit further downstream, are the swimming places. LAT, LON : lat=39.3322, lon=-120.98944(source: measured by another) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 3/2013.


NORTH CANYON [NORC]: A beautiful canyon with a bunch of swimming places in the South Yuba River upstream of Edwards Crossing. PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO
, PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO  LAT, LON : lat=39.34028, lon=-120.9489(source: measured by another) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 4/2010. There are at least two ways to get here:

FIRST WAY:   The first way is the easier, quite level and about 5-6 miles round trip. To get here, from Edwards Crossing (above) continue on North Bloomfield Rd about 1 mile to signs for the South Yuba Campground. From the campground, hike the South Yuba Trail south to the river then east along the river to North Canyon. The swimming holes are in North Canyon.  

Here is a report from Tim Joyce using this trail in 5/2010:  "
Yesterday we hiked North Canyon via the South Yuba trail (South Yuba Campground). It was much easier than the Humbug trail hike. Although this is still a very hot Canyon and people need to be advised to bring enough water (at least 2 bottles each).  From the trail head it is about 2 miles to Overlook point and then another 1 mile to the North Canyon Spur Trail (this is the trail that heads down to the river with the switchbacks). There is a marker at the spur trail. The spur trail does not look like a trail since it is slightly overgrown. It is easy to miss and people need to note that is right across from the marker sing in North Canyon. As you proceed down the trail it gets better. The trail down to the canyon has a number of "switch backs". It is about 0.4 miles. So the hike distance is about 6-7 miles round trip for this hike.

"You can pick up the South Yuba Trail at the end of the upper parking area at the South Yuba campground. I recommend taking the North Bloomfield road to Edwards Crossing. Crossing the bridge and driving up the dirt road about 3 miles until you reach the South Yuba Campground exit. It will be on the right and descends down a hill. The road is dirt, but in good condition and easily drivable by any car. You proceed down the hill and come to a fork. You proceed to the right. The lower road goes to the campground. The upper to the parking. The parking area is obvious. You can park in this top lot. Note that there are bathrooms here.

"The trail to the South Yuba trail is actually not labeled and is at the back of this parking lot. You just follow this unmarked trail down and it will go for about 0.5 miles until you reach a sign indicating the South Yuba Trail. You will know you are on the right trail since it parallels the road to the campground which you will see from the trail. There are no markers along the way, but this is the only trail down. After hiking a while you will reach the trail head. There is a big sign and it is obvious. Note at this sign the South Yuba is to the left and goes up the slight incline.

"At Overlook point there are picnic tables, but no real view. The best view of the Canyon is about 0.2 miles from the North canyon Spur trail (see attached photo). You can see the entire canyon.
We encountered a number of mountain bikers on this trail. The trail is fairly level with some slight inclines. I would rate it of moderate difficulty. However, it is a long way to the Canyon floor. I would recommend this for the hike first and the swimming hole second. If you are going to use the swimming hole you need to leave early. Otherwise, you will find yourself reaching the hole and then having to hike back almost immediately to avoid hiking in the dark.  The river flow is strong in May and nearly non-existent in September, so people need to plan accordingly.

SECOND WAY:  The second way is more strenuous and begins in Malakoff Diggins S.P.. To get here, from Edwards Crossing (above) continue on North Bloomfield Rd to Malikoff Diggins S.P. (has camping). This from a visitor:” In the State Park, take the Humbug Trail (2.4 miles one way) then the South Yuba Trail (1.5 miles one way) down to the river and the swimming holes. The hike down the Humbug trail is about 2.4 miles (there is a picnic table at the end of the trail to rest). The Humbug trail is fairly steep so people should leave early since the hike is long and you don't want to be hiking up this trail in the dark due to the ledges. You must then pick up the South Yuba trail and hike around another 1.5 miles to reach a series of switch backs. This is a long hike. Then, after you hike the South Yuba trail you must take a series of switchbacks down to the river. This will deliver you to the hole. Note that this is really a 9-10 mile hike to the swimming hole and back. People really need to bring plenty of water on this hike. Visiting too early in the year the waters can be strong. In September, most of the water will have left the canyon so it is not as wonderful."

SHANGRI-LA [SHAN]: A very popular (i.e. - crowded) swimming place under the RT 49 bridge over the South Yuba River but a much quieter place a short way upstream. The place at the bridge is has boulders and swimming tunnels and slides that are absolutely exceptional and worth putting up with the crowd. YOUTUBE . To get here from Nevada City, take RT 49 northwest to where it crosses over the South Yuba River. The main swimming hole is right here at the bridge with the other upstream. Hike about 1/3 mile upstream to a much quieter place which is the best spot for swimming and high jumping into emerald green water with only a few others around. LAT, LON : lat=39.29799, lon=-121.08922(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/2008.

SOUTH YUBA RIVER S. P. [SOUP]: A linear, discontinuous state park along the South Yuba River with several swimming places along the way. To get here from SHANGRI-LA (above), continue on RT 49 northwest about 5 miles then turn west (left) on Pleasant Valley Rd. and go 7.5 miles to the South Yuba River S. P. Bridgeport Visitors Center near Bridgeport.
Stop by the visitor center for a trail guide or to get other basic information about the park.


There is a wooden truss bridge here and several trails up and down the river begin near this bridge.  Try the
Point Defiance Trail and Loop: From parking area cross covered bridge and turn immediately left (west) downriver. Follows river downstream to where the river flows into Englebright Lake.  Also  the Cemetery/ Virginia Turnpike Loop Trail: A half hour gentle stroll with a great swim hole at the end. Follow signs from Visitor Center parking area.
 The short "River Overlook/Bridgeport trail goes below the visitors center and downstream a short distance to a family beach for swimming. Another trail, the Kneebone Beach Trail, goes upstream on the south side of the river .4 miles to a scenic swimming hole outlined by granite rocks. LAT, LON : lat=39.29222, lon=-121.19381(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/12/2005.

MIDDLE YUBA BRIDGE [MIDB]: There is a swimming hole under the Middle Yuba Bridge that is very popular. Many people go there since there are bathrooms and parking. PHOTO   PHOTO  To get here, continue north on RT 49 until you cross the bridge over the Middle Yuba River.   LAT, LON : lat=39.39407, lon=-121.08455(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 5/10.

MUSHROOM HOLE [MUSH]: In the Tahoe National Forest in the Middle Yuba River is a popular, deep hole with a large, mushroom-shaped rock to jump from. [NOTE: It is no longer possible to go the way described below to reach Mushroom Hole or Strawberry - the landowner has constructed an electric fence. We are seeking another way to get here. Skip it for now.] To get here, on RT 49 cross the bridge over the Middle Yuba River then make an immediate left turn onto Moonshine Creek Rd. Go 1 mile then park and do not block any driveways as there is private property hereabouts. Look for a trail on the left that goes steeply down (wear sturdy shoes) to the river then hike downstream for about 1/2 mile. The first swimming hole is known as Strawberry and is often crowded but if you continue about 250 yards further downstream you will come to Mushroom Hole. Watch out for poison oak. LAT, LON : lat=39.38353, lon=-121.10006(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 4/10.

OREGON CREEK [OREG]: Beautiful hole with large flat rocks all around. Clothing optional.  PHOTO , PHOTO, PHOTO, YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE . This is not a deep hole - maybe about 6-8 feet max.  DO NOT DIVE HERE- there have been a number of injuries. There is also a few little tubs that have circulating water that acts like a hot tub. One falls steps down and the other braids together. You can actually go under the falls. There is an air space and plenty of room for about 3 people. Also at the top of the step down falls is a pot hole you can submerge into and go through a secret passage to the middle rock where you can come up. It is very neat.

To get here, set your odometer at the Middle Yuba Bridge and go a little under 1.0 mile north on RT 49 from the bridge over the Middle Yuba and park at a small turn off on the right side of the road (look closely, this turn off is not easy to find. Note that right before the turn off there is a rusted guard rail with a white road marker that says YUB 49. That is the first marker you will see while driving. Next to this marker and closer to the parking place is a second white marker that has the number 101 on it. If you still can't find it and are in doubt, the road is marked here with the number 213') . There is a big dirt hump at the parking area you go over to get to the trail. Walk a short way (.25 miles) or less down a well-maintained trail to Oregon Creek and the swimming hole. LAT, LON : lat=39.404972, lon=-121.0754(source: measured by another) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 3/2013.

DOWNIEVILLE AREA[DOWN]: Downieville, on the North Yuba River, is a center for mountain biking with lots of trails along the river. Many swimming holes are accessible on these trails. YOUTUBE . Details are not presented here, ask at local bike outfitters about rides and swimming holes. Downieville is on RT 49 about 44 miles from Nevada City. As you approach Downieville on RT 49 you will be paralleling the river where you may see additional swimming holes. LAT, LON : lat=39.55952, lon=-120.82770(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2013.

INDIAN SPRINGS [INDI]: Another location in the South Yuba River with clear water and waterfalls to sit under and plenty of flat warm granite rocks to lie on and sunbathe. To get here from Colfax on I-80, continue on I-80 east towards Reno. Exit at Eagle Lakes road near Donner Summit (Exit 164). Go north under the freeway and follow the road around to the west and you will come to Indian Springs campground. The swimming hole is here in the river. LAT, LON : lat=39.33419, lon=-120.58503(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/12/2005.

LAKES BASIN CAMPGROUND [LAKE]: Not really in the Yuba River Area, but not too far away either. Near BLAIRSDEN, SIERRAVILLE and GRAEAGLE. At the Lakes Basin Campground in the Plumas N.F. there is a swimming hole in an unnamed creek. To get here from I-80 (above), continue on I-80 east to exit 196 (Truckee area) and take RT 89 north through Sierraville (Stay on RT 89) through Clio to Graeagle (before Blairsden). In Graeagle look for the intersection of RT 89 and Forest Rd. 24 (Gold Lake road or Gold Lake Forest Rd.) and turn west (left) on RT 24 and go about 7 miles to the campground sign. The swimming hole is in a creek in or near the campground. LAT, LON : lat=39.70064, lon=-120.65908(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/28/2007.

JOHNSVILLE [JOHN]: Not really in the Yuba River Area, but not too far away either. Near BLAIRSDEN, SIERRAVILLE and GRAEAGLE. YOUTUBE , YOUTUBE . Beautiful pool, jumping and VERY cold water. Very near the Plumas-Eureka State Park, where there is camping and all facilities. To get here from Graegle (above) go north on RT A14 and continue onto Johnsville Rd.. Keep on Johnsville Rd for about 5 miles where the road make a very sharp right hand curve. Continue around the curve and, in a short distance, park in the Johnsville Cemetery parking lot. Walk down the path, steep at first, for about .5 mile total to Jamison Creek. The falls and swimming hole are here. LAT, LON : lat=39.7607303, lon=-120.6954985 (source: map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/2013.
CONFIDENCE Varies -see above
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/2013


HOME/
-->