Forest Glen
Swimming hole in Eureka, California · River
Forest Glen is a river swimming hole. It is near Eureka, California. Access is free. Best season: Summer months (June-August) for warm temperatures and stable water levels.
Typical season: Summer months (June-August) for warm temperatures and stable water levels
About Forest Glen
Forest Glen lies in California, where South Fork Of The Trinity River moves through a wooded corridor. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access.
Here, the South Fork of the Trinity River winds through a landscape of towering conifers, mossy boulders, and fern-draped banks. A world apart from the noise of everyday life. Whether you're a weekend camper or a day-tripper chasing cool water on a hot summer afternoon, Forest Glen delivers an experience that feels genuinely wild without demanding anything extreme of you.
The South Fork of the Trinity River runs with a clarity that stops you in your tracks. Standing on the bank, you'll look down into water that shifts from pale jade to deep emerald depending on the light and the depth. The campground hugs the river's edge, so the transition from camp chair to cool water takes all of thirty seconds. Ancient Douglas firs and pines press in from all sides, casting dappled shade across the rocky shoreline, while the scent of pine resin and river mist mingles in the warm summer air. In spring, wildflowers erupt across the surrounding hillsides in waves of color.
No lifeguards patrol Forest Glen. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- River
- Water body
- South Fork of the Trinity River
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Eureka
- State
- California
- Coordinates
- 40.37702, -123.32694
- Best season
- Summer months (June-August) for warm temperatures and stable water levels; Spring (April-May) for vibrant wildflowers; Autumn (September-November) for stunning foliage.
- Access difficulty
- Easy to moderate. The . Water shoes recommended for navigating rocky terrain.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Camping at site.
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Swimming, Snorkeling
- Facilities
- Forest Glen Campground provides restrooms, picnic areas, tent and RV camping options, and easy access to the .
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer months (June-August) for warm temperatures and stable water levels; Spring (April-May) for vibrant wildflowers; Autumn (September-November) for stunning foliage.
- Access Easy to moderate. The . Water shoes recommended for navigating rocky terrain.
- Facilities Forest Glen Campground provides restrooms, picnic areas, tent and RV camping options, and easy access to the .
- Camping nearby Camping at site.
Highlights & features
- Clear emerald waters
- Set within Shasta-Trinity National Forest
- Perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Accessible from nearby towns
- Camping facilities available onsite
- Blend of rugged isolation and accessibility
- Natural clarity of the South Fork Trinity River
- Rich wildlife and plant life diversity
How to get there
Forest Glen lies in California near Eureka, Fortuna, and Redding. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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Starting Point: Eureka, CA
Begin your journey by heading south on US Route 101 from Eureka. Drive about 20 miles.
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Take Exit 685 for State Route 36 (CA-36) and turn left to head east on CA-36.
Continue on CA-36 for about 62 miles. Along the way, you will enter the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Be prepared for winding roads and scenic views as you drive through the forested area. Look for signs directing you to the Forest Glen Campground. The campground lies off CA-36 and will be clearly marked.
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Parking and Final Approach
Once you arrive at Forest Glen Campground, parking is available within the campground area. Follow the designated parking signs to ensure you are in an appropriate spot. The . From the parking area, walk towards the riverbank. There are no formal trails, but the river is easily accessible from the campground.
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Helpful Tips
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the river. Bring any supplies you may need, as amenities in the area are limited. Check current weather and road conditions before your trip, as CA-36 can be challenging to navigate during inclement weather. Have a safe visit to Forest Glen and the refreshing !
Plan your visit
Forest Glen works well as a day trip from Eureka or Fortuna. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Humboldt Redwoods Swimming Holes or browse more California river spots in our directory. For the full list in California, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, natural swimming area with no designated supervision or lifeguards. Parking is within the Forest Glen Campground. All facilities are limited to those available at the campground. There is no stated fee for day use, but campground fees may apply for overnight stays.
Top picks for this trip
Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
A do-everything bottle that holds ice through a full hot day at the water.
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Willit Rashguard Swim Shirt UPF 50+
The best all-around sun shirt for swimming holes — light enough to swim in, dry enough to hike out in.
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What to pack for Forest Glen
Gear we compare side by side for river swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Forest Glen?
Yes. Forest Glen near Eureka, Fortuna, and Redding in CA is a river swimming spot on South Fork of the Trinity River. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Forest Glen free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Forest Glen?
Forest Glen is in CA within day-trip range of Eureka, Fortuna, and Redding. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Forest Glen’s history as a seasonal retreat for Forest Service cabin owners reflects its longstanding appeal as a place of tranquility and natural beauty.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, avoid littering, and respect local wildlife to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.