How many swimming holes are in WA?

Our directory lists 25 natural swimming destinations in WA, spanning 4 water types: Rivers (7), Creeks (5), Lakes (3), River/Falls (1). Of these, 13 (52%) are free to access and 12 require an entry fee or parking pass.

What types of swimming spots does WA have?

WA's 25 listed swimming destinations include rivers and creeks with natural swimming access, lakes and reservoirs, spring-fed pools, and waterfall plunge pools. Notable water bodies include Banks Lake, Varies -see below, Cowlitz River, Puget Sound, Douglas Creek (perennial).

Which swimming holes in WA are free?

13 of the 25 swimming holes in WA (52%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 12 are in managed areas such as state parks or national forests that charge a day-use or parking fee — typically $5–$10 per vehicle. Always verify current fee information with the managing agency before your visit, as prices change.

Where are the best areas to find swimming holes in WA?

Swimming destinations in WA are clustered around WENATCHEE, COULEE CITY, ELECTRIC CITY, PORTLAND(OR). 23 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 2 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.

When is the best time to visit swimming holes in WA?

Based on the conditions reported across WA's listed sites, fall tends to offer the best swimming conditions — warm enough water with manageable crowds. Late spring is ideal for waterfall flows; check USGS streamflow data before visiting any river site after rainfall. Spring-fed pools in the state often maintain consistent temperatures year-round. Always check current weather and water conditions before heading out.

Are swimming holes in WA safe for families and children?

Safety varies significantly by location. 23 officially managed sites in WA typically have clearer access, signage, and in some cases lifeguard coverage — these are generally the best starting points for families. Unofficial or backcountry swimming holes require more caution: always check water depth before letting children enter, watch for currents — even slow-looking rivers can have strong undertow, and avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Supervise children closely at all times.

Do I need a permit or reservation to swim in WA?

Most swimming holes in WA do not require advance permits, but some high-traffic locations within national forests and popular state parks have moved to timed-entry reservation systems, especially on summer weekends. 12 sites charge a day-use or parking fee. Check the official website of the land management agency — US Forest Service (fs.usda.gov), BLM (blm.gov), or your state parks authority — for the most current access rules before your trip.

How many swimming holes are in WA?

Our directory lists 25 natural swimming destinations in WA, spanning 4 water types: Rivers (7), Creeks (5), Lakes (3), River/Falls (1). Of these, 13 (52%) are free to access and 12 require an entry fee or parking pass.

What types of swimming spots does WA have?

WA's 25 listed swimming destinations include rivers and creeks with natural swimming access, lakes and reservoirs, spring-fed pools, and waterfall plunge pools. Notable water bodies include Banks Lake, Varies -see below, Cowlitz River, Puget Sound, Douglas Creek (perennial).

Which swimming holes in WA are free?

13 of the 25 swimming holes in WA (52%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 12 are in managed areas such as state parks or national forests that charge a day-use or parking fee — typically $5–$10 per vehicle. Always verify current fee information with the managing agency before your visit, as prices change.

Where are the best areas to find swimming holes in WA?

Swimming destinations in WA are clustered around WENATCHEE, COULEE CITY, ELECTRIC CITY, PORTLAND(OR). 23 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 2 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.

When is the best time to visit swimming holes in WA?

Based on the conditions reported across WA's listed sites, fall tends to offer the best swimming conditions — warm enough water with manageable crowds. Late spring is ideal for waterfall flows; check USGS streamflow data before visiting any river site after rainfall. Spring-fed pools in the state often maintain consistent temperatures year-round. Always check current weather and water conditions before heading out.

Are swimming holes in WA safe for families and children?

Safety varies significantly by location. 23 officially managed sites in WA typically have clearer access, signage, and in some cases lifeguard coverage — these are generally the best starting points for families. Unofficial or backcountry swimming holes require more caution: always check water depth before letting children enter, watch for currents — even slow-looking rivers can have strong undertow, and avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Supervise children closely at all times.

Do I need a permit or reservation to swim in WA?

Most swimming holes in WA do not require advance permits, but some high-traffic locations within national forests and popular state parks have moved to timed-entry reservation systems, especially on summer weekends. 12 sites charge a day-use or parking fee. Check the official website of the land management agency — US Forest Service (fs.usda.gov), BLM (blm.gov), or your state parks authority — for the most current access rules before your trip.

Swimming Holes in WA

Discover 25 amazing natural swimming destinations across WA. From pristine lakes to refreshing rivers, find your perfect swimming spot.

Swimming Holes

Types

Free Access

Fee Required

25 locations found

Lake

Free

Banks Lake Region Swimming Spots

WENATCHEE

Guide to swimming in the Banks Lake region near Coulee City and Electric City, WA. Find directions, access notes, and essential safety tips for a great day on the water.

Banks Lake

Swimming Holes in WA

Banks Lake Region Swimming Spots

Battle Ground Region Swimming Spots

COWLITZ RIVER

DASH POINT BEACH

DOUGLAS CREEK

Eatonville Washington Swimming Spots

FRENCH CABIN CREEK

Green River Swimming Spots near Seattle

LOWELL JOHNSON PARK

OLYMPIC HOT SPRINGS

QUARRY POOL

RAINBOW FALLS S. P.

Rainier East Little Naches River Swimming Spots

ROCK ISLAND

Seattle and Bellevue Lake Washington Beaches

Skykomish Region Swimming Spots

Snoqualmie River Swimming Spots

SQUIRE CREEK PARK

TANEUM CREEK

TEANAWAY RIVER

Walla Walla Region Swimming Destinations

WANAPUM LAKE

Washougal River Swimming Holes

WHATCOM FALLS PARK

Wind River Region Swimming Retreats

Overview

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