Secret Soak Spots: Oregon’s Hidden Swimming Holes for Summer Heat Relief
As a long-time Oregon local, allow me to let you in on a secret. While the rest of the country is sweltering in the summer heat, we Oregonians stay cool by dipping into our state’s lesser-known swimming holes. These hidden oases spread out across the state are natural reprieves from the summer heat and are just begging to be discovered.
1. Opal Pool
Located at the end of the Opal Creek Trail in the Willamette National Forest, Opal Pool offers a gorgeous place to cool off. Only about a three-mile hike from the Jawbone Flats, this turquoise pool is a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding area, full of old-growth forest and historic mining equipment.2. Devil’s Punchbowl
On the central Oregon coast, between Newport and Depoe Bay, you’ll find the Devil’s Punchbowl. Complete with Pacific views and misty sea air, lower tides afford adventurous swimmers a chance to paddle amidst the cavernous rock bowl. Remember, check the tide tables at a local bait shop before you go.
3. Blue Pool
Also known as Tamolitch Pool, this spot along the McKenzie River Trail is a must-visit. The trailhead is near Sahalie and Koosah Falls, and a 2-mile trek will take you to the beautiful, deep blue pool. A word of wisdom for everyone: despite its allure, the icy water is best admired from the bank or a raft.4. Cliff Pool
Make your way to Rooster Rock State Park in the Columbia Gorge and find the lesser-known treasure, the Cliff Pool. Nestled against basalt cliffs, this spot is a peaceful escape often bypassed for the busier Sandy River spots. It’s a hidden jewel for those who love a secluded, riverside retreat.5. Sparks Lake
If you’re in or around Bend, head west on the Cascade Lakes Highway to Sparks Lake. With calm, cool waters, and panoramic views of the South Sister and Broken Top mountains, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing in-water escape or a lazy paddleboard afternoon. But, find your way early during peak seasons as parking can be scarce.6. Three Pools
A popular spot along the North Fork Santiam River, Three Pools is known for its clear blue waters and recognizable rocky outcrops. While it tends to draw crowds during peak weekends, weekdays can offer a less peopled oasis. Be prepared with a Northwest Forest Pass to park in the designated spots.7. Wizard Falls
Find tranquility on the Metolius River at Wizard Falls. This swimming hole is framed by the gorgeous Central Oregon scenery. There’s also Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery nearby and for folks who enjoy some angling, it’s an excellent spot for fly fishing.8. Scout Lake
Located in the Deschutes National Forest, Scout Lake is a warm lake perfect for families with kids. It’s shallow at the edges with an inviting sandy bottom perfect for wading. Don’t forget your sunscreen and picnic basket! And if you happen to have a floating tube, bring it along for an ultimate summer afternoon.9. Buck Lake
This gem on Mount Hood is largely untouched because it requires a hike to reach. Buck Lake delivers an idyllic swimming spot in the middle of untouched wilderness. The nearby hot springs at Bagby are also worth a visit, but truly, nothing beats a refreshing dip in the high-altitude lake to beat the summer heat.10. Slide Lake
Deep in the Wallowas, you’ll find Slide Lake. It earned its name from the natural slide feeding the ice-cold pool. This off-the-beaten-track spot requires a 10-mile hike to reach, but the efforts yield an extraordinary natural wonder and a refreshing swim – no trip to the Wallowas is complete without it!That about covers it! Our Oregon really is something special, isn’t it? I hope you get a chance to beat the summer heat in one – or several! – of these hidden swimming holes. Safe travels, and I’ll see you on the trail!