Tuck Woodstock

Tuck Woodstock has been writing and editing content for Travel Portland since 2014. Read More

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Spend a hot summer afternoon in the cool, clear waters of Punchbowl Falls.

Credit: Keith Ewing via Flickr

Swimming Holes Near Portland

Stay cool all summer long at these serene swimming spots, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest — and all less than an hour away from Portland.

Updated Aug. 24, 2021 2 min read

Tuck Woodstock

Tuck Woodstock has been writing and editing content for Travel Portland since 2014. Read More

Stay cool all summer long at these serene swimming spots, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest — and all less than an hour away from Portland.

Portland and Nearby Towns

A pastoral farming community only 10 miles (16 km) from downtown Portland, Sauvie Island gives visitors a choice of several public shores. Walton Beach is a popular spot for kite-flying and sand castle-building, while the mellow waters of Sturgeon Lake offer a safe swimming spot for all abilities. Didn’t pack a swimsuit? That’s no problem at Collins Beach, one of the state’s two clothing-optional beaches. Parking passes are available at the Sauvie Island general store at the base of the bridge; a daily pass is $7. Stop by one of the island’s many U-Pick farms on the way back for the freshest, ripest berries around.

When the summer heat hits, families flock to Glenn Otto Community Park in nearby Troutdale for prime swimming, sunbathing, fishing and floating. Less than 20 miles (32 km) from downtown, the park sits at the mouth of the gentle Sandy River, with lifeguards on hand to keep visitors safe and sound.

Columbia River Gorge

Dip into the deep blue Columbia River at Rooster Rock State Park, 30 minutes east of Portland. The park stretches over 3 miles (4.8 km) of river access — keep walking east to find Oregon’s other clothing-optional beach, not visible from the main area. Two disc golf courses provide Frisbee fun for all skill levels, and the boat ramp provides access to some of the area’s best bass, walleye and steelhead fishing. A $5 parking pass is required at this state park.

Where to Go

More Outdoors

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island, the Manhattan-size isle is one of the largest river islands in the country just north of Portland, is where families can find an entire day’s worth of adventures with swimming, hiking, birding and local farms.

Columbia River Gorge

Starting just 30 miles east of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers amazing vistas, trails and more than 90 waterfalls.

Vancouver, Washington

Though similar to Portland in many ways, Vancouver, Wash., a Pacific Northwest suburb in Southwest Washington is located just across the Columbia River. It can also feel like it's a world away.

Washington State

A quick trip across the Columbia River lands visitors at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park in Vancouver, Washington. About 30 minutes from downtown Portland, the 120-acre (48.6 ha) destination houses dozens of picnic tables, barbecue grills and sand volleyball courts, as well a children’s playground. Practical amenities like restrooms and disabled parking seal the deal on this family-friendly spot. Cars are required to purchase a $3 parking pass.

Venture further into Washington to find stunning Dougan Falls, one of six major waterfalls on the Washougal River, 42 miles (67.6 km) from Portland. The wide river cascades into a narrow pool 19 feet (5.8 m) below, creating a cool, idyllic swimming hole for visitors looking to beat the heat. A day-use area with picnic tables and toilets sits conveniently nearby. Visitors must purchase a Washington State Discover Pass; a daily pass is $11.50.

Swimming, Soaking & Water Sports

More summer

Make a Splash in the Willamette River

When summertime heats up in Portland, cooling off is as easy as heading to one of the city's many riverfront beaches or docks for a refreshing dip or getting the gear for water sports such as kayaking, or SUP.

The Big Float

Every summer since 2011, thousands of people swim and float in the Willamette River for the annual Big Float event.

Amusement & Water Parks

Portland and the surrounding region offer a variety of amusements and entertainments for the young and young at heart.

Whitewater Rafting Near Portland

Conquer rapids, spot wildlife and experience nature in a new way at these favorite spots for whitewater rafting near Portland.

Where to Stand-Up Paddleboard Around Portland

Find out where to stand-up paddleboard in Portland, as well as where to find SUP lessons, paddleboard rentals, guided lake tours and SUP yoga classes.

Kayaking in and Around Portland

When the weather heats up, folks flock to the water. For paddlers, that typically means hitting one the many rivers in and near Portland.

Summer Free for All

Portland Parks & Recreation offers over 400 free events including free movie screenings, concerts and rock climbing.

Windsurfing in the Columbia River Gorge

Grab your board and head to the Columbia River Gorge, the windsurfing capital of the world, located a short drive east of Portland.

Fishing Near Portland

These four waterways — all less than an hour away from Portland — provide the perfect setting for your next fish tale.