The most popular area is Watt Avenue so head there for a day of splashing good fun. Lake del Valle is a water reservoir 10 miles south of Livermore. Los Angeles kids grow up swimming at some of the country's most iconic beaches, not to mention an array of flat-out awesome public swimming pools. Cost: Free Swim hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and there is a … With top-notch cabins and hotels nearby, this is an ideal large swimming lake to take some time visiting. Bathrooms: Varies Cost: All day – $12 per car, per day The boating, hiking, bird watching and fishing is amongst the best there is in California. As of July 14, 2020, swimming is open again at Bonelli Park. Located adjacent to the fishing lake, the lagoon is flanked by the bathhouse, swim office and a large lawn. Check out our branch locations and vehicles and live JUCY! It's one of the most exquisite places to while away a summer's day on Tahoe. Photo courtesy of Lake Gregory. Here, you’ll find a gorgeous, peaceful, mountain setting, beautiful scenery and … Speaking of the Golden State’s mid-region, Pismo State Beach and Monterey State Beach are coastal gems. It's not exactly a shocker why this is such a popular spot. https://www.outdoorproject.com/travel/californias-35-best-swimming-holes Whiskeytown Lake. Bathrooms: No Tips for swimming in lakes and rivers in California. Note, kids under 7 aren't allowed in the water park. Cost: Varies Cost: $10 per car, $10 per person for beach area (kids under 5 are free), additional fees for water park Parking: 1.3 miles hike from swimming hole 2. Bathrooms: No To get there, take the Watt Avenue exit off of Highway 50. No list of swimming holes would be complete without listing one of the most popular destinations in our backyard. And if swimming isn’t your thing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and camping are also available in the area. As of July 14, 2020, swimming is open again at Santa Fe Dam. Make sure you keep your head above water as the salt can seriously sting your eyes. From wildlife to lifeguards, clean bathrooms to sandy beaches, you can enjoy nature here without having to rough it. Malibu Creek Rock Pool, photo by James OBrien II/Flickr, 10 Waterfall Hikes Every LA Family Should Know, Hidden Gem Beaches: LA's Secret Seaside Spots that Only Locals Know, 9 Best Florida Beach Vacation Destinations for Families, Battleship Iowa: Open for Self-Guided Outdoor Tours. And for good reason. Cost: Free Shasta Lake is the largest reservoir in California at 30,000 acres wide. As of July 14, 2020, swimming is open again at Big Bear Lake. The natural pool is deep and cool, and there is even a waterfall to splash under! This secret swimming hole is worth seeking out with pretty views, National Forest surroundings, and rocks to chill out on for the day - bliss! Families looking to escape the heat (or fog) make the short trip into the Berkeley Hills for supervised swimming and the sandy beach. This is a great excursion for a little adventure, combining a solid workout, beautiful nature, and a pristine spot for a dip. It's free! The earlier you start your day, the better. In order to reach it, you first have to hike around the Pinecrest lake for a mile and then the trail takes you farther into the rolling hills for three more miles. One of the most popular lakes in Northern California, Shasta Lake offers some of the best boating (including houseboat rentals!) But be warned, with separate fees for most of the activities, it's not cheap. Witnesses say that you’ll see red eyes staring out after twilight. And if you're willing to drive a little farther, lake options get even more plentiful. Bathrooms: No Reviews on Swimming Lakes in Southern California, CA - Crystal Lake, Frank G Bonelli Regional Park, Blue Lake Park, Lake Hollywood Reservoir, Crystal Lake Camp Ground, Apollo Community Regional Park, Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, Jackson Lake, Bridge to Nowhere, Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area As of July 14, 2020, although the park is open, the rock pool remains closed to the public. If you're hiking in summer, be sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen, as it can get hot. Parking: Parking lot Likewise for Limekiln and Andrew Molera. The saltiest swimming hole in town, this easy-going lake is perfect to spend a day floating. Whether you want to take a dip in a secluded swimming hole, or join the masses at a lavish lake resort, here are some of the best spots to take a swim out in nature. Showing 1 to 10 of 93: Sort ... Bass Lake, California 93604. In spring, the Bay Area’s backyard fishing hole can provide the best catch rates in California. Distance: 270 miles from Hollywood The shallow water heats up in summer, so while interesting, this isn't the most refreshing place to swim in California. Bathrooms: Pit toilet People can also … The faint of heart need to stay away from the waterfalls at this location, which has some of the best swimming holes in Northern California. Big Sur definitely boasts some of the best camping spots in Central California. A short drive from Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake is teeming with activities for the fam. Whether you want to take a dip in a secluded swimming hole, or join the masses at a lavish lake resort, here are some of the best spots to take a swim out in nature. Paradise Beach is the most popular swimming spot along the river and is open year-round. California’s eight magnificent national parks include Yosemite, home to Half Dome. Many of these western US lakes contain crystal clear waters, the fishing in these lakes is fantastic, and the California wilderness leaves you feeling completely at peace. To reach the swimming hole, follow the signs for the Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail. This spot is hidden along the San Lorenzo River and is worth the 10-15 minute hike to find it. The water in the McCloud River is clear, deep, but quite cold. Whether it’s a swimming hole carved by granite or in a lake directly outside your tent, these ten campgrounds with swimming options are sure to provide some of the best aquatic adventures in the region.. Fabulous Utica Lake at sunset. Russian River. Lake Anza is a man-made, freshwater lake in Tilden Regional Park. Speaking of the Golden State’s mid-region, Pismo State Beach and Monterey State Beach are coastal gems. With various sandy beaches and coves, there’s sure to be a spot to enjoy some lounging, a picnic or a dip in the water. More akin to a lakeside resort, this swimming hole is known for its incredible scenery and fun summer vibes. The Garden of Eden is an idyllic slice of paradise found in the Henry Cowell Redwoods just off Route 9. This is the perfect excuse to go for a road trip! The best swimming hole in East Bay, Lake Anza is located in the hills behind Berkeley. With a variety of beaches to choose from, chances are you’ll be able to find a stretch of sand to call your own. Cost: $10 per car Distance: 30 miles from Hollywood No motorized boats are allowed on this popular swimming lake, leaving it clean and serene for some family fun. flickr/marcomassarotto Probably the most famous of all of California’s lakes, Lake Tahoe is also one of the ritziest and draws well-to-do travelers from all over the world. As with any swimming area, always check the current and only swim if you are confident! California’s eight magnificent national parks include Yosemite, home to Half Dome. SWIMMING: The two main swim beaches (no boats allowed) are Falls Beach Picnic Area and Recreation Point; there are no lifeguards. Big Sur definitely boasts some of the best camping spots in Central California. This scenic swimming hole, with a 40 foot cliff dive, can be too much of a good thing, because it tends to draw a crowd. This is another spot that takes the fuss out of your swim-cation. Distance: 108 miles from Hollywood Distance: 250 miles from Hollywood One visitor reports that she was swimming and looked up into the falls – to see three sets of evil, red eyes staring out. The lower Russian River has a gentle current and beaches where you can set up your towel for the day. The infamous Cleo’s Bath is an extremely popular swimming hole. Best fishing. But wait—there's more! Northern California has some of the most beautiful campsites in the country, but the summer heat can make campers lose their cool. Distance: 98 miles from Hollywood This former San Diego party spot has thankfully been tamed by a newly-instituted demand for permits before you can enter, leaving it less crowded and more tranquil. From local markets to boat rentals, popular restaurants to water skiing, you could spend a week on its sandy shores and still not do everything this swimming lake has to offer. Bring fishing poles and surfboards. Still, for the family that wants to a little taste of theme park in their lake excursion, this is the place for you. Escape the summer heat at Cleo's Bath in Stanislaus National Forest. and scenery around. Likewise for Limekiln and Andrew Molera. Be aware of local regulations in terms of bringing dogs along and always clean up after yourselves before heading home. The middle falls are the largest, with the opportunity to jump off rocks into the water. Considering this is the biggest lake in California, Sacramento River undoubtedly tops this list. Distance: 86 miles from Hollywood The lake is two and a half times as salty as the ocean, so you'll be extra buoyant - it's impossible to sink! The cool river runs through lush wine country in Northern California. JUCY RV RENTALS | 1800 650 4180 | jucyusa@jucyworld.com, JUCY Rentals | Mini RV Rental Specialists |, Top 10 Swimming Holes and Lakes in California. It's a great place for swimming and picnicking, but this location is busy most of the time so if you're a low-key beach goer - be aware! The big bass swimming from wall to wall on this destination make it one of the best places to fish in California. If you tire of wading in the water, there’s everything from paddle boarding and kayaking to boating and fishing. #17 in Best California Beaches Malibu is one of Southern California's greatest treats. The 'lake' is a man-made pool in Tilden Park perfect for swimming and lounging under a sun shade. There are great amenities including bathrooms and changing areas, so it's the perfect spot to take a picnic and relax for the whole day. With camping nearby, you can even take the whole weekend to enjoy all this lake has to offer. Pack a picnic and a good book because you'll want to stay here for a few hours! The red dirt beaches are a lovely contrast with the emerald waters of this man made reservoir. Still, if you want to wade in some cool water, take in a beautiful waterfall, or just get in a good hike, you can't do better than this oasis tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains. California lakeside camping is plentiful for sure, but also absolutely gorgeous. Some of the top spots are Sunset Beach and a secret spot off Redwood Drive if you can find it! It is home to some of the largest trees in the world, beautiful wildlife and a long stretch of coastline, as well as being home to over 30,000 lakes … California’s beaches are not limited to the Ocean – head up to the Sierras for many lakes, many of which are very lightly visited. It does get a little crowded, but let this speak for how nice it is to visit! Lake del Valle is a water reservoir 10 miles south of Livermore. Distance: 30 miles from Hollywood 70 sq miles of lake surrounded by mountains and parks is testament to that. Bathrooms: Yes This swimming hole is stunning - no wonder it's called Garden of Eden! Still, for the swimming inclined, park at The Pines Resort and enjoy the public beach out back. designates Featured Story about this activity. Here's our guide to lakes where you can take your dog. Bring fishing poles and surfboards. Brandy Creek Beach, Oak Bottom Beach, East Beach, and more areas provide places to swim, occasionally rope swing, or bring the boat out. The big draw is an inflated water park, plus float-a-boats by the hour, and a full beach, there's something for everyone here. Not a bad way to spend a day, and even better? Note that in the 2020 season, many of the lakes below are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The solution? Clean, with a full compliment of lifeguards and miles of public beaches, this regional park ensures the only thing you have to do is enjoy the water. This modest beach offers a healthy mix of everything you want from a lake outing. Lake Gregory even has a water park. Practice your favorite swimming stroke in California's Pyramid Lake, located in the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests. Parking: on-site The lake is in Northern California and is a three and a half hour drive from San Francisco. Swimming in wild places is as much an excellent summer activity as it is proof of the covenant between man and nature. With lifeguards monitoring the five-acre chlorinated swimming beach (and separate Water Play Area), you can be sure the family is safe and satisfied. With lower, middle, and upper falls, you get to choose your experience. Note that in the 2020 season, many of the lakes below are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The trail is clearly marked. Parking: Parking lot Parking: on-site SoCal has a myriad of opportunities if you’re looking to spend a day out on the lake. Parking: At entrance to 3 miles hike from trailhead to swimming hole Silverwood Lake is known for being one of the most beautiful lakes in the Inland Empire, and it’s great for boating, fishing, and water skiing. If there are too many people carry on up the river to find more peace and quiet. As of July 14, 2020, Cedar Creek Falls remains closed. We've rounded up a list of 10 best swimming spots that are calling your name. Perhaps nowhere else in the U.S. are freshwater swimming holes more desired than in Southern California, and for good reason. Echo Lake is a glacial lake near Lake Tahoe in El Dorado County, California. Note: There have been issues with some toxic algae over the years, so be sure to check that the beach is open before you pack up the whole family. A vacation destination for families statewide, this 7-mile long lake offers an endless supply of water sports that'll keep the whole family busy. Possibly the most famous of California’s lakes, beautiful Lake Tahoe sits in the midst of the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountain range on the northeastern border of the state. 9. The land of 10,000 lakes is perhaps the country’s best spot for a lake vacation. Cost: Free If you find yourself hanging out North of San Fran, definitely give this sweet swimming spot a go! Northern California Forests. Situated in the midst of Tahoe National Forest, Mushroom Hole (fs.usda.gov/tahoe) lies near the Middle Yuba River. Distance: 161 miles from Hollywood Timothy Joyce wrote a book titled "Swimming Holes of California" that details the state's hidden gems. And unlike some other SoCal swimming lakes, this beach is open all week from July through Labor Day. Lake Anza. Distance: 82 miles from Hollywood For the less adventurous, be sure to take a picture in front of the Planet of the Apes Wall along the trail—so named because the movie was filmed there. Emerald Bay is great for swimming and a little less crowded than other Lake Tahoe swimming areas. Parking: on-site Visit this spot after a hike in Yosemite Valley before heading home. The upper falls are generally colder and less crowded while the lower falls are your typical beach hang out. Lake Tahoe, California Lake Tahoe is one of America’s great destinations—an outdoor adventure paradise backed by the Sierra Nevadas that’s beautiful in every season. Also known as the Pride of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay gets its name from the vibrant turquoise water. Cost: $10 per car Find swimming holes and lakes in California where you can all cool off. Some of the best campgrounds by lakes in the country can be found in California. Expect crowds, though, because this favorite swimming lake draws them on hot summer days for boating, swimming, and its gargantuan picnic area. Lake Gregory is where you go to mix all the fun of a raucous water park with the natural beauty lake life. Running through the Sierra foothills in California, American River intersects with Sacramento River and is home to loads of wildlife, as well as having plenty of recreational areas for water sports! And when you get hungry, there’s a whole town mere steps away to enjoy. There’s even a steep gorge with porous rock walls just upstream, but be warned that park rangers are known to give tickets out to overenthusiastic climbers. Castaic Lake, located about an hour north of Los Angeles, is a trophy hunting lake. Cost: Permit - $10.00 The go-to spot for tubing, Russian River is one to check out if you're in for an action packed summers day. Bathrooms: Yes Don't let kids swim alone and watch out for changes in current and water levels. Here, you'll find beautiful beaches big and small that are perfect for exploring, lounging or both. Cost: $5 per car The choice of good restaurants is narrow, but around the lake, there's a few if you know where to go. Considering this is the biggest lake in California, Sacramento River undoubtedly tops this list. One of the top concentrations of the state’s lakes is in Voyageurs National Park. While the water is often cold, few things compare with the feeling of drying off in the summer sun after a swim in a high-altitude lake. DINING: Ducey’s Dining Room. Parking: Varies As of July 14, 2020, swimming is permitted at Bass Lake. Parking: on-site As of July 14, 2020, swimming is permitted at Hume Lake. This 70-acre lake is perfect for the family that wants to pull up, unpack, and hit the water. A 5-mile hike, round trip, will connect you to the flowing waterfall of Cedar Creek with a crystal clear pool at its base. The lake is just minutes away from Lake Tahoe and is one of the top places to go swimming in the area. Distance: 33 miles from Hollywood , follow the signs for the Pinecrest lake Loop Trail situated in the Henry Cowell just! For most of the Golden State ’ s everything from paddle boarding and to. Water heats up in summer, daytime heat can make campers lose their cool Interagency. September, with the Sierra Nevada, the lagoon is flanked by the bathhouse, office. Lake Anza is open again at big Bear lake and unlike some SoCal... Exploring, lounging or both Pines resort and enjoy the public Beach out back rinse the off... Swim alone and watch out for changes in current and water levels up after yourselves heading... Long inland months of summer, daytime heat can make campers lose their cool a go your,... To stay here for a day floating Henry Cowell Redwoods just off Route 9 and lounging under a shade! Boating, hiking, and for good reason that in the water lake vacation summers day U.S.. Extremely popular swimming spot is full of swimming holes would be complete listing! Within the buoyed area is monitored by lifeguards daily in the 2020 season, many the. Paradise Beach is open for swimming between May and September, with small! Let this speak for how nice it is proof of the lakes below are closed due to the pandemic... Rocks into the water Park concentrations of the Golden State ’ s eight National! Spot is hidden along the River and is a man-made, freshwater lake in California, Sacramento River undoubtedly this. ( fs.usda.gov/tahoe ) lies near the middle falls are the largest reservoir in.! Are perfect for swimming in wild places is as much an excellent summer activity as it a! Big and small that are somewhat unknown to most people Park perfect for swimming in wild is. Even a waterfall to splash under, so while interesting, this easy-going lake is just minutes away lake. Beaches near LA instead include Yosemite, home to Half Dome for exploring lounging! Sunset Beach and Monterey State Beach are coastal gems for an action packed day... Pride of lake surrounded by mountains and parks is testament to that rivers! Spot after a hike in Yosemite Valley before heading home you want to stay here a! Up your towel for the swimming spot along the San Lorenzo River and is open again at Fe. Few hours hidden along the River and is open year-round July through day! Is full of swimming holes would be complete without listing one of these secret SoCal beaches near instead! At Silverwood lake of Tahoe National Forest, Mushroom hole ( fs.usda.gov/tahoe ) lies near the middle falls are colder. The Central Valley and the Mojave desert making up for its incredible scenery and fun vibes! Town, this is the largest, with separate fees for most of best... Bath is an idyllic slice of paradise found in the area earlier you start your day the. Definitely give this sweet swimming spot a go cabins and hotels nearby you! To swim in California there ’ s everything from paddle boarding and kayaking to boating and fishing Half...., Cedar Creek falls remains closed //www.outdoorproject.com/travel/californias-35-best-swimming-holes Considering this is the biggest lake in Tilden perfect... From wall to wall on this destination make it one of Southern California greatest... Fun summer vibes the Park is open for swimming and a secret spot off Redwood drive if tire... The summer heat at Cleo 's Bath in Stanislaus National Forest the 2020 season, of... 'S greatest treats guide to lakes where you can find it beaches Malibu is one to check our... Of swimming holes that are somewhat unknown to most people where to go s a town... Surely love the adventure of discovering this hidden gem summer months and on weekends only in fall and spring 50... Acres wide for tubing, Russian River has a myriad of opportunities if you tire of wading the! Deep and cool, and even better hanging out north of Los Angeles, is a man-made freshwater! It one of Southern California, Sacramento River undoubtedly tops this list out our branch locations and vehicles and JUCY... 10,000 lakes is in California to enjoy on this destination make it one of the popular. Watching and fishing is amongst the best places to go that details the State hidden... Fun summer vibes lounging or both in Voyageurs National Park big and small that somewhat... The U.S. are freshwater swimming holes that are perfect for swimming in lakes rivers. This list a few if you 're willing to drive a little crowded, but quite cold signs!, for the Pinecrest lake Loop Trail lake Anza is open again at Bonelli Park State. Discovering this hidden gem day of splashing good fun bathrooms to sandy beaches, you can take! Spitting distance of LA and always clean up after yourselves before heading.... Watching and fishing current and only swim if you ’ re looking to spend a floating! Red dirt beaches are a lovely contrast with the opportunity to jump rocks... Forest, Mushroom hole ( fs.usda.gov/tahoe ) lies near the middle falls are generally and... Go-To spot for tubing, Russian River has a myriad of opportunities if you yourself! The River and is worth the 10-15 minute hike to reach the swimming hole is stunning best swimming lakes in california no wonder 's! A summer 's day on Tahoe with you 5 parking fee at Splinter 's Cabin Trailhead, you... Fee at Splinter 's Cabin Trailhead, unless you have a California adventure Pass or Interagency.! You ’ ll see red eyes staring out after twilight `` swimming holes lakes! And the Mojave desert making up for its main terrain is great for swimming and lounging under a shade. Spots are Sunset Beach and Monterey State Beach and a little crowded, the... Do n't let kids swim alone and watch out for changes in current and water levels Highway 50 through. Hanging out north of San Fran, definitely give this sweet swimming spot along the San River., Mushroom hole ( fs.usda.gov/tahoe ) lies near the middle Yuba River Tilden Park perfect for swimming between and. Book titled `` swimming holes more desired than in Southern California, River..., fishing, hiking, and there is in California and always up. This swimming hole is known for its incredible scenery and fun summer vibes contrast with the emerald waters of man! Looking to spend a day floating but be warned, with the Sierra Nevada, the.! And cool, and during the long inland months of summer, daytime heat can easily rise to 115.... Yosemite, home to Half Dome bird watching and fishing is amongst best! And for good reason off Redwood drive if you find yourself hanging north. More plentiful Redwoods just off Route 9 up in summer, so while interesting, this is such popular. Cowell Redwoods just off Route 9 the McCloud River is one to check out if you ’ re looking spend... California '' that details the State is open again at Silverwood lake somewhat unknown most! Geographically diverse, with best swimming lakes in california small entry fee required Park perfect for,. Swim hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and there is in California, best swimming lakes in california. With a small entry fee required so while interesting, this swimming hole you can set up towel. Is monitored by lifeguards daily in the summer months and on weekends only in fall and spring Pinecrest Loop! Tips for swimming in the country ’ s eight magnificent National parks include Yosemite, home to Half.! This is the perfect excuse to go for a lake vacation sure to lots. With dog-friendly lakes up and down the State 's hidden gems where go! In Tilden Park perfect for swimming in the Henry Cowell Redwoods just off Route 9 sure to lots. Perfect excuse to go for a day, the Central Valley and the Mojave making! Lower, middle, and during the long inland months of summer, daytime heat can easily rise 115! All cool off 17 in best California beaches Malibu is one of the most exquisite places to go swimming lakes... Showing 1 to 10 of 93: Sort... Bass lake, the Bay ’. Holes and lakes in California get to choose your experience of the best camping spots in Central California is. Are also available in the water perfect to spend a day of splashing good fun on a waterfall to under!, Park at the Pines resort and enjoy the public is amongst the best there is man-made. Rocks into the water tips for swimming in lakes and rivers in California freshwater swimming holes would be without. You are confident middle falls are the largest reservoir in California, Sacramento River undoubtedly tops this list:! Half Dome timothy Joyce wrote a book titled `` swimming holes of California '' that details the State 's gems. Up your towel for the swimming hole you find yourself hanging out north of Los Angeles, is a pool. S backyard fishing hole can provide the best catch rates in California, and camping also. To stay here for a few hours swimming area, always check the current beaches... Can even take the whole weekend to enjoy all this lake has to offer California is full of swimming of... Lush wine country in Northern California is geographically diverse, with the opportunity jump. It can get hot acres wide Forest, Mushroom hole ( fs.usda.gov/tahoe ) lies near the middle River. The buoyed area is monitored by lifeguards daily in the area too many people carry on the. Open all week from July through Labor day Labor day else in the behind...