Did last weekend’s blazing hot temperatures get you thinking about taking a cool dip? Lucky for you, Eugene is surrounded by plenty of places to explore that offer access to nature’s A/C.
More: Heading out on an Oregon lake or river? What to know to stay safe
Here are more than a dozen places near Eugene where you can take a plunge this summer.
By the way, on hot days, you’ll want to arrive at popular swimming holes early — perhaps before 10 a.m. — to ensure you get a parking spot.
Triangle Lake waterslides
Triangle Lake and the waterslides below are as close as you can get to an organic waterpark. Featuring a 100-foot natural rockslide at the day-use area just below the lake, this 50 minute drive from Eugene is tough to beat.
Also known as Lake Creek Falls, this location is incredibly popular and often packed. The waterslides are great for a half-day during the week or early risers on the weekend. Practice extreme caution in this area as the water moves quickly, especially when cliff jumping or using available rope swings.
Directions: Drive west on Highway 36 and look for the waterslides parking lot about a half mile past Triangle Lake. Day use areas for the lake can be found in several spots on the drive in, as well as boating access.
Fern Ridge Reservoir
Spread over 9,000 acres, Fern Ridge is a paradise for water recreation of all kinds in the summer. Wildlife watching, kayaking and paddle boating are just a few of the popular activities taking place on this reservoir just outside of Veneta.
Clocking in as the largest lake in the Willamette Valley and home of the Eugene Yacht Club, swimmers can enjoy a multitude of easy beach access areas and watch sailors, speed boaters and canoers race across the water from the comfort of your floatie in this huge pool.
Directions: Heading west out of Eugene on state Highway 126, you will see the reservoir on your right just 15 minutes outside of the city.
Coastal Lakes: Cleawox, Woahink, Loon, Siltcoos
Craving a beach day but not a fan of swimming in the ocean? Coastal lakes provide the best of both worlds with fresh water recreation only a few minutes away from the Pacific. Just over an hour drive from Eugene, there are several lakes available off the coast for swimming, boating and more.
Siltcoos, the largest coastal lake in Oregon, is fed by runoff and promises a refreshing dip in emerald waters, where the much smaller Loon Lake just south offers one designated swimming area and a more intimate experience. Cleawox Lake is adjacent to Jessie Honeyman Memorial State Park and is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking on particularly still waters. Woahink, across the street from Cleawox, is one of the deepest natural coastal lakes in the state, reaching its max at just over 73 feet deep.
Directions: Head west from Eugene on state Highway 126 toward Florence. At the main junction of U.S. Highway 101 in Florence, turn left for all four coastal lakes. Look for signage for individual lake access.
Hayden Bridge County Boat Landing
One of the closest swimming spots to Eugene, this day use park is incredibly popular for after-work dips due to its proximity to the city. Dive into the often chilly McKenzie River as it travels through Springfield, just a few minutes drive from downtown Eugene.
Early arrival is a must on hot days and weekends, as accessible parking fills up quickly and the rocky beach area is small.
Directions: An unmarked hole, this swimming spot is across the street from the Riverview Market and can be accessed via a dirt trail on the north side of the road, or by using the boat launch on the west side of the bridge. Park at your own risk, as the area is unmonitored, and avoid parking in tow-away zones (marked by signs).
Fall Creek
The long stretch of swimming holes tucked into the small canyons of Fall Creek are perfect for a getaway to jump in the water or soak in a personal waterfall. The largest swimming hole is Bedrock Campground. With both deep pools and shallow, sandy beaches, this is a great spot for families.
Exposed to the sun by fires in recent years, sunscreen is a must for this area. Bring your own drinking water and pack an umbrella if you want guaranteed breaks from the sun.
Directions: Just under 20 miles from Eugene, this hotspot of swimming holes is just outside of Lowell. From Lowell-Jasper Road, turn right at Unity Bridge and continue on to Fall Creek Road (Forest Road 18). Once past the reservoir, there are dozens of unmarked turnouts along this road that lead to hidden river spots, or opt for a designated swimming area like Bedrock or Big Pool.
Dorena Lake
Baker Bay Park at Dorena Lake.
Also known as Dorena Reservoir, this body of water is just east of Cottage Grove, about 30 minutes from downtown Eugene, making it easily accessible for quick trips. Grassy and sandy beaches both make for great sunbathing, as well as docks for an easy jump in.
There are several day use areas at the lake, with most featuring vault toilets and picnic areas. Looking for a water ride? Check out Baker Bay for boat rentals and explore the lake by vessel.
Directions: Head south on I-5 to Cottage Grove and turn left at the light. Continue east for 6 miles on Row River Road, and the reservoir will be on your left.
More: Future of Cottage Grove, Dorena lakes? Army Corps wants public input
Dexter Reservoir
Just 16 miles southeast of Eugene, Dexter Reservoir is great for sunbathing, swimming and boating. Dexter State Recreation Site is on the western edge of the lake and offers barbecues, picnic areas and even an 18-hole disc golf course nestled in the shade of the trees.
On the north side is the Lowell State Recreation Site, which has designated swimming areas and a playground for kids. Watch boaters race from the shore or catch a sunset on the beach at this scenic spot.
Directions: Head east on state Highway 58 from Eugene. Dexter Reservoir will be on your left in about 18 miles – cross the covered bridge toward Lowell in order to access most day use areas.
Row River (Wildwood Falls)
Just outside Cottage Grove, the Row River is popular with locals and travelers alike for its multitude of swimming holes and cliff jumping opportunities. Look for deep holes or cars parked along the side of the road for a hint at a hidden pool, or head to the famous Wildwood Falls and battle the crowds for a shot at the water.
Swift currents, cold water and a reputation for partying has led to numerous drowning deaths in this area. Swim safely and practice extreme caution.
Directions: Travel east on Row River Road, and the river will appear shortly after the road leaves Dorena Lake behind. To reach Wildwood Falls, turn left at the junction onto Layng Creek Road, and the falls will be on your right.
Brice Creek
Crisp but refreshing, this creek is fed by mountain runoff and maintains its icy blue color all year long. About an hour away from Eugene, the trails and swimming holes available make for a great day trip, but early arrival is suggested to guarantee parking on weekends.
A natural corridor created by rocky ledges, the whole creek boasts great cliff jumping and deep pools to help cool off even on the hottest days. Brice Creek Falls, about 0.3 miles from the Cedar Creek Campground parking lot, is a deep pool popular for floating or lounging on the flat rocks by the water.
Directions: From Cottage Grove, travel east on Row River Road for 19 miles and stay right at the junction to continue on Brice Creek Road 2470. Continue along this road and look for safe parking pullouts, trails or designated parking.
Odell and Crescent lakes
The deep blue waters of these mountain lakes are best known for sailing, fishing and windsurfing, but are also great spots to go swimming for those who can brave chillier waters. Dotted with campsites and day use areas, both lakes are great for a weekend away or a full day on the water.
Odell Lake Lodge and Resort and Crescent Lake Resort both offer recreation supplies as well as food, drinks and restrooms. Grab a snack before heading out in a rental boat with your fishing poles and the family.
Directions: Traveling east on state Highway 58, several campsites and day-use areas for Odell Lake will be on your right in about 75 miles. Crescent Lake can be found a few miles farther down the road, 82 miles from Eugene.
Blue River and Cougar reservoirs
Popular for fishing, boating and swimming in the summer, these reservoirs are only about an hour drive from Eugene and perfect for a day trip. Day use areas, boat launches and picnic areas are spread across both reservoirs, providing a variety of recreation options and lots of spots to pull over and jump in.
Both reservoirs can reach low levels toward late summer or during dry spells. Check water level status online prior to making the trip to ensure the reservoir is ready for you.
Directions: Both reservoirs can be found driving east on state Highway 126 from Eugene. Blue River Reservoir, about 45 miles away, is located on Forest Road 15, turning left off the highway and continuing up to the day use area. Cougar Reservoir is a few miles farther up Highway 126, turning right at Aufderheide Drive, right again at the fork in the road and continuing up to the reservoir.
Salmon Creek Falls Day Use Area
This beautiful spot is located just outside of Oakridge and showcases Salmon Creek Falls, a roaring waterfall with a deep blue pool at the bottom. Reminiscent of a miniature gorge, the water is crisp, cold and offers several nooks and crannies in the bedrock for cooling off.
Smaller than most, the Salmon Creek Falls Campground only has 14 sites, and day use parking can fill up quickly on hot days. Vault toilets are available on site, but there is no potable water, so be sure to bring your own.
Directions: Coming from Eugene, it is about an hour drive to the falls. Take a left at the only stoplight in the town of Oakridge and turn right at the four-way intersection onto East First Street, which will turn into Forest Road 24. Salmon Creek Falls will be on your right in 3.7 miles.
This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Eugene Oregon swimming holes lakes reservoirs to visit in summer 2025