Best Swimming Holes near Ellensburg, WA

Escape the summer heat with a plunge into the cool, clear waters of Central Washington. Nestled between the Cascade foothills and the Columbia River, the area around Ellensburg offers a surprising variety of refreshing, natural swimming spots, from rushing mountain creeks to serene lake coves.

TL;DR

Within an hour's drive of Ellensburg, find free, unofficial swimming holes in creeks and rivers. Top picks include the family-friendly [[Listing: FRENCH CABIN CREEK]] with pit toilets and the expansive [[Listing: WANAPUM LAKE]] on the Columbia. Always practice water safety, check current conditions, and pack out all trash.

Top Swimming Holes Near Ellensburg

1. [[Listing: FRENCH CABIN CREEK]] – A scenic mountain creek spot near Cle Elum with a rare pit toilet facility.
2. [[Listing: TANEUM CREEK]] – A refreshing, secluded creek pool in the hills near Ellensburg.
3. [[Listing: TEANAWAY RIVER]] – Cool off in the clear, moving waters of this popular river corridor.
4. [[Listing: WANAPUM LAKE]] – A vast, warm-water cove on the Columbia River, perfect for a long swim.

When to Go

The prime swimming season is late June through early September. Snowmelt keeps mountain creeks like French Cabin and Taneum very cold and often high through June. July and August offer the warmest, most comfortable water temperatures. Wanapum Lake, being part of the Columbia River, warms up earlier and stays swimmable later into the fall.

Safety & Access Notes

• Unofficial Sites: These are natural areas, not developed parks. There are no lifeguards, marked boundaries, or often any facilities.
• Water Safety: Currents in rivers and creeks can be deceptively strong, especially during spring runoff. Always enter feet-first, never dive. Cold water can cause shock and cramping.
• Access: Many require a short walk from a forest road or highway pullout. Respect private property and stay on established paths.
• Essentials: Wear sturdy water shoes for rocky bottoms. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a first-aid kit. Pack out everything you bring in.
• Check Conditions: Water levels and access roads can change. Check USFS alerts and local weather before you go.

FAQs

Are these swimming holes free?
Yes, all listed spots have no entry fee, though some may require a Discover Pass for parking at nearby trailheads.

Which spot is best for families?
[[Listing: FRENCH CABIN CREEK]] is often recommended for its relatively easy access and the presence of pit toilets.

Is the water cold?
Mountain creek water is typically very cold, even in summer. [[Listing: WANAPUM LAKE]] offers the warmest swimming experience.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed, but they must be kept under control and you must clean up after them.

Responsible Recreation

Help keep these beautiful places pristine for everyone. Leave No Trace: take all trash, food waste, and dog waste with you. Minimize your impact by using existing fire rings if fires are permitted, or better yet, use a camp stove. Keep noise levels down, respect wildlife from a distance, and be courteous to other visitors. Protecting these spots ensures they remain swimmable for years to come.