Forest Glen

Tucked into the heart of Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the swimming hole at Forest Glen Campground is one of Northern California's quiet treasures. 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 Setting and Landscape

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. By autumn, the canyon walls ignite with gold and amber, making this one of those rare spots that earns a return visit in every season.

Swimming and Snorkeling

The river here is approachable enough for families but rewarding enough for adventurers. You'll find pools of varying depth tucked between smooth granite boulders — shallow enough near the edges for kids to wade and splash, deeper toward the center for those who want to fully submerge. The water is cold and bracingly clear, the kind of mountain river water that makes your skin tingle and your spirits lift immediately. Snorkelers will appreciate the visibility, which reveals the stony riverbed and whatever small creatures make their home in the current. Water shoes are strongly recommended: the river bottom is rocky and uneven, and the right footwear lets you explore freely without watching every step. Note that this is an unofficial swimming spot with no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise caution, especially with children and during higher spring flows.

Plan Your Visit

Forest Glen Campground sits within Shasta-Trinity National Forest, and camping is available directly on site — meaning you can wake up twenty feet from the water and spend the whole day in and out of the river. Facilities are available at the campground, and there is currently no fee to visit, making this an exceptional value for families and budget-conscious travelers. Summer months from June through August offer the warmest temperatures and the most stable water levels, making them the prime window for swimming and snorkeling. The nearest towns include Eureka and Fortuna to the west and Redding to the east, all of which offer fuel, groceries, and lodging if you prefer a base camp with more amenities. However you arrive, Forest Glen rewards those who make the effort with one of the Trinity region's most unspoiled riverside escapes.

Directions to Forest Glen Swimming Hole Starting Point: Eureka, CA Begin your journey by heading south on US Route 101 from Eureka. Drive approximately 20 miles. 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 is located off CA-36 and will be clearly marked. 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 swimming hole is located in the river that runs through the campground. From the parking area, walk towards the riverbank. There are no formal trails, but the river is easily accessible from the campground. 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. Enjoy your visit to Forest Glen and the refreshing swimming hole!

Forest Glen Campground sits within Shasta-Trinity National Forest, and camping is available directly on site — meaning you can wake up twenty feet from the water and spend the whole day in and out of the river. Facilities are available at the campground, and there is currently no fee to visit, making this an exceptional value for families and budget-conscious travelers. Summer months from June through August offer the warmest temperatures and the most stable water levels, making them the prime window for swimming and snorkeling. The nearest towns include Eureka and Fortuna to the west and Redding to the east, all of which offer fuel, groceries, and lodging if you prefer a base camp with more amenities. However you arrive, Forest Glen rewards those who make the effort with one of the Trinity region's most unspoiled riverside escapes.

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.

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.

Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, avoid littering, and respect local wildlife to preserve the area’s natural beauty.