Summer’s here and the temps are rising this week! ☀️ As much as I love the long, sunny days of summer, you’ll most likely find me in the quieter, cooler spots tucked away around Portland. I crave those peaceful places where you can hear the sound of water rushing over rocks, not someone’s Bluetooth speaker on full blast.
Sure, everyone knows about Blue Lake or the Sandy River at Oxbow Park—but what about the hidden gems only the locals whisper about?
Here’s your personal guide to some of the lesser-known, lightly-trafficked, and deeply-loved swimming holes within 90 minutes of Portland—perfect for spontaneous weekday dips or quiet weekend escapes.
1. Dougan Falls (Washougal, WA)
Why locals love it: A gorgeous waterfall empties into a large, swimmable pool surrounded by smooth rocks and shady evergreens. Feels like your own natural waterpark.
Directions: Dougan Falls Day Use Area – just past the bridge on Washougal River Road
Tip: Go early to snag a parking spot. Washington Discover Pass required. Cell service is limited—plan ahead.
Why locals love it: A gorgeous waterfall empties into a large, swimmable pool surrounded by smooth rocks and shady evergreens. Feels like your own natural waterpark.
Directions: Dougan Falls Day Use Area – just past the bridge on Washougal River Road
Tip: Go early to snag a parking spot. Washington Discover Pass required. Cell service is limited—plan ahead.
2. Three Pools (Detroit, OR – with side trail)
Why locals love it: Stunning turquoise pools and sun-warmed rocks. Side trails lead to quieter spots.
Directions: Three Pools Day Use Area
Tip: Visit on a weekday. Northwest Forest Pass may be required. Pack out all trash—this place is under watch due to past closures.
Why locals love it: Stunning turquoise pools and sun-warmed rocks. Side trails lead to quieter spots.
Directions: Three Pools Day Use Area
Tip: Visit on a weekday. Northwest Forest Pass may be required. Pack out all trash—this place is under watch due to past closures.
3. Dodge Park (Gresham, OR)
Why locals love it: Where the Sandy and Bull Run Rivers meet. Great for a mellow dip or shaded riverside picnic.
Directions: Dodge Park on Google Maps
Tip: Dog-friendly and family-friendly. Bring your own shade—no big trees on the beach itself.
Why locals love it: Where the Sandy and Bull Run Rivers meet. Great for a mellow dip or shaded riverside picnic.
Directions: Dodge Park on Google Maps
Tip: Dog-friendly and family-friendly. Bring your own shade—no big trees on the beach itself.
4. The Narrows – Molalla River Recreation Corridor
Why locals love it: Secluded spots with cliffs, canyons, and clear, deep water.
Directions: Navigate to Hardy Creek Trailhead, then explore upriver
Tip: Limited signage, but beautiful. Early arrival is key. No cell service—download maps ahead.
Why locals love it: Secluded spots with cliffs, canyons, and clear, deep water.
Directions: Navigate to Hardy Creek Trailhead, then explore upriver
Tip: Limited signage, but beautiful. Early arrival is key. No cell service—download maps ahead.
5. Wilson River Pull-Offs (Tillamook Forest)
Why locals love it: A choose-your-own-adventure stretch of river with calm pools and sunbathing rocks.
Directions: Start at Jones Creek Day Use Area or drive Hwy 6 between mile markers 20–27
Tip: Look for small gravel pull-outs—some of the best spots are unmarked. Go with a buddy, especially if you’re trying a new access point.
Why locals love it: A choose-your-own-adventure stretch of river with calm pools and sunbathing rocks.
Directions: Start at Jones Creek Day Use Area or drive Hwy 6 between mile markers 20–27
Tip: Look for small gravel pull-outs—some of the best spots are unmarked. Go with a buddy, especially if you’re trying a new access point.
Bonus: Don’t Forget Your Hammock + Water Shoes
Most of these spots require a little scramble or a short hike in. Bring:
Most of these spots require a little scramble or a short hike in. Bring:
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Water shoes for slick rocks
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A packable towel
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Extra water (always)
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A hammock if you’re planning to stay a while
Safety & Stewardship Tips
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Leave no trace: Pack out everything—even if it’s compostable.
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Respect closures & fire restrictions.
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Keep dogs close and safe in fast-moving water.
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Be chill. Locals protect these spots for a reason.
Wishing you an amazing summer filled with sunshine, serenity, and secret swimming holes—you just might run into True and me cooling off at one of them. As always, we’re here for all your summer real estate adventures and are so grateful to be part of your journey.
PS. If you’d like the REALLY secret swimming spots, please give me a call.
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