The most incredible way to cool off on a hot summer day is to take a dip in a beautiful swimming hole. Oregon is home to numerous stunning, crystal clear swimming spots that’ll blow you away. Perhaps the most enchanting of all is the gorgeous Three Pools, located deep in the Opal Creek Wilderness. Add a swim at this lovely hidden gem to your summer bucket list:
Located on the north fork of the beautiful Santiam River, Three Pools is a unique swimming hole with pristine turquoise water.
flickr/ Christopher Somes
The river is carved through dramatic basalt rocks, dotted with deep glittering pools where you can swim or, if you’re feeling adventurous, cliff jump.
flickr/ SerenityRose
Unlike many of Oregon’s swimming holes, Three Pools is actually quite easy to access. Take the Little North Santiam Road (just off HWY 22) and pull into the Three Pools Day Use parking lot and take a very short walk down to the river.
flickr/ Thomas Shahan
Upstream, you’ll find amazing basalt ledges, deep pools, and small cascades pouring between large rocks. Downstream the water is calmer and more family friendly.
flickr/ Christopher Somes
If you want to stay the night, you can pitch your tent right up the road at the lovely Shady Cove campground.
flickr/ jason McHuff
On summer weekends, the pools can be quite busy, so you may want to try to go during the week. No matter when you decide to go, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty of this place and the forests surrounding it.
flickr/ Thomas Shahan
As always, be careful and keep an eye out for dangers. The water is very cold and, in some spots, fast-moving, which has caused drownings in the past. Also, make sure to pack out anything you bring in and follow the Leave No Trace policy.
flickr/ Christopher Somes
flickr/ SerenityRose
flickr/ Thomas Shahan
flickr/ jason McHuff
There’s a small parking fee, so be sure to bring cash. Get directions to Three Pools using this interactive Google Map.
Have you been to Three Pools before? Where’s your favorite swimming hole in Oregon? Let us know in the comments.
Find out about more awesome swimming holes in Oregon here.
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