While spring in Eugene is typically accompanied by a cover of clouds and rain, there are the occasional handful of days that are filled with sunshine and warmth. On these sunny days, one option to beat the heat is to visit some of Oregon’s beautiful natural swimming holes. Enjoy the sun and explore Oregon’s vast natural landmarks by packing up the cooler with snacks and drinks, blowing up the intertubes and heading to one of these spots.
Wildwood Falls:
Wildwood Falls is a picturesque spot for those looking for a unique swimming hole outside of Eugene. Located on the Row River in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Wildwood Falls is a quick 40-minute drive south of Eugene. The waterfall that gives “Wildwood” its name drops about 15 feet into a few channels over a cliff that pours into a dark green pool often filled with swimmers in the summer months. On the shore next to the swimming hole is the perfect space to picnic in between dips in the beautiful pool. Wildwood Falls is a popular destination. Be sure to arrive before the peak hours, typically 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to avoid crowds and secure a sunny spot for your towel and cooler. While Wildwood Falls is known for cliff jumping and swimming, it is important to check the depth of the water before jumping and be prepared for cool water temperatures.
Triangle Lake Rock Slides:
The Triangle Lake Rock Slides, located about 40 miles west of Eugene. This is the closest you can get to a natural waterpark. This unique spot features a 100-foot natural rock slide that sends you and your friends gliding into Triangle Lake watering hole. The smooth rock has a steady flow of water, without the help of human-made pumps and pipes, that propels you down into the swimming hole. While sliding down in just your swimsuit is perfectly suitable for this natural water ride, intertubes are a fun addition and protect you from small divots in the rock. Along with sliding down nature’s waterslides, Triangle Lake also offers spots for cliff jumping, swimming and hiking. The spot is relatively small and can get crowded in the hot summer months- arrive before noon and start sliding before the crowds show up.
Fern Ridge Reservoir:
Fern Ridge Reservoir is a great spot for a quick, spontaneous trip without having to spend a long time in the car. Just under 25 minutes from the University of Oregon, Fern Ridge is a great spot to spend the day swimming, kayaking, floating and enjoying the sun. There is also a large open lawn area for barbecuing, games and storing your kayaks and intertubes. Fern Ridge offers three different parks for public use within the reservoir. Jeans Park is located on the west side of the reservoir and has several trails- perfect for those looking for a mix of water activities and hiking. Perkins Peninsula is located on the south end of the reservoir and offers boat launch facilities, a swimming area and fishing access. This reservoir is an ideal local option for those looking to take a dip in the water without traveling too far.
With more and more sunny days hopefully on the horizon and summer just around the corner, grab your friends and beat the heat with some of these local swimming holes.
