When summer hits the Rose City, Portlanders flock to refreshing swimming spots along the Willamette River and Columbia River Gorge. From the sandy shores of Broughton Beach to the tree-lined banks of Sellwood Riverfront Park, cooling off is a quintessential PDX summer ritual.
The region’s swimming holes offer more than just relief from the heat. Oxbow Regional Park’s pristine waters provide a wilderness escape, while Moulton Falls’ dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear pools create the perfect backdrop for a Pacific Northwest adventure.
Dive into Portland’s best swimming spots below!
Featured Swimming Spots in Portland
- Oxbow Regional Park (Gresham)
- Moulton Falls Regional Park (Yacolt)
- Broughton Beach Park
- Sellwood Riverfront Park
- Willamette Park
Natural Swimming Spots in Portland
Broughton Beach Park
What to Expect
Scenic Columbia River views
Description
Broughton Beach Park is a scenic natural swimming spot along the Columbia River, offering a tranquil atmosphere with stunning views of Mount Hood. It features a long sandy beach, picnic areas, restrooms, and a boat launch. The beach is popular for swimming, fishing, and water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. While it lacks lifeguards, it provides a peaceful retreat with minimal traffic and is dog-friendly on leashes.
Where: Portland | More Info: Broughton Beach Park
Moulton Falls Regional Park (Yacolt)
What to Expect
Waterfall swimming hole
Description
Moulton Falls Regional Park offers a serene natural swimming spot at the base of its picturesque waterfall. The park features hiking trails, an elegant wooden arch bridge, and access to the East Fork Lewis River. It is particularly noted for its clear, cool water and scenic surroundings, making it a popular destination for summer swimming and relaxation. The park's trails are mostly flat, providing an accessible hike for visitors of all skill levels.
Where: Yacolt | More Info: Moulton Falls Regional Park
Oxbow Regional Park (Gresham)
What to Expect
Sandy River access
Description
Oxbow Regional Park offers natural swimming spots along the Sandy River, featuring scenic views and old-growth forests. The park includes a boat ramp and multiple access points to the river, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. With 12 miles of trails, visitors can explore the ancient forests and observe wildlife like deer, osprey, and elk. Features a sandy beach area during summer.
Where: Gresham | More Info: Oxbow Regional Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
What to Expect
Sandy beach along the Willamette River
Description
Sellwood Riverfront Park offers a natural swimming spot with a long, sandy beach just north of the Sellwood Bridge. It provides a scenic area for sunbathing and diving, making it a popular spot for those seeking a natural swimming experience in Portland.
Where: Portland | More Info: Sellwood Riverfront Park
Willamette Park
What to Expect
Riverfront swimming with regular water quality testing
Description
Willamette Park offers a picturesque setting along the Willamette River, providing a natural swimming environment. It is one of the city's popular recreational sites where water quality is regularly tested to ensure safety. The park is part of Portland's efforts to enhance riverfront accessibility, making it suitable for swimmers who are aware of the river's currents and depth variations.
Where: Portland | More Info: Willamette Park
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