Lithia Park
Swimming hole in Ashland, Oregon · Lake
Lithia Park is a reservoir/creek/pond swimming hole. It is at Winburn Way / Lithia Park, Ashland, OR. Fee notes: Free city park day-use (Ashland Parks & Recreation). Best season: Summer weekdays after checking water-quality results.
Typical season: Summer weekdays after checking water-quality results
About Lithia Park
Lithia Park is Ashland’s signature 90+ acre city park in downtown Oregon. lawns, trails, Japanese garden vibes, and two summer water spots: the **Granite Street swimming reservoir** at the south/upper end and creek wading near the playground. Access is **free**. The city tests water quality weekly in season (roughly late May/June through September). check Swim Guide / Ashland Parks alerts before dunking after storms. There are **no lifeguards** at the reservoir. Hours are typically dawn to dusk. Pair a swim with Oregon Shakespeare Festival downtown walks. South-end reservoir parking is up Granite Street where it turns to gravel. Reconfirm hours, fees, and access rules the morning you go. local managers change postings faster than travel blogs. Reconfirm hours, fees, and access rules the morning you go. local managers change postings faster than travel blogs.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Address
- Winburn Way / Lithia Park, Ashland, OR 97520
- Water type
- Reservoir/creek/pond
- Water body
- Ashland Creek
- Fee
- Free city park day-use (Ashland Parks & Recreation)
- Nearest town
- Ashland
- State
- Oregon
- Coordinates
- 42.18819, -122.71650
- Best season
- Summer weekdays after checking water-quality results.
- Access difficulty
- Easy park walks; short drive/walk to upper reservoir.
- Parking
- See facilities notes
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Dogs allowed
- Yes
- Camping
- Not in Lithia Park; lodging downtown Ashland.
- Activities
- Swimming, creek play, walking, picnics, gardens
- Facilities
- Restrooms, picnic areas, playground, trails, free parking zones.
- Listing last updated
- July 15, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitSummer weekdays after checking water-quality results.
- AccessEasy park walks; short drive/walk to upper reservoir.
- FacilitiesRestrooms, picnic areas, playground, trails, free parking zones.
- Camping nearbyNot in Lithia Park; lodging downtown Ashland.
Highlights & features
- Accessible from downtown Ashland
- Swimming reservoir at park's south end
- Enchanting Fairy Ponds upstream
- Vibrant wildlife and flora
- Year-round scenic beauty
- Blend of landscaped gardens and wild canyonland
- Historical design by John McLaren
- Lithium-rich creek water
How to get there
Downtown Ashland / Lithia Park trails begin near Winburn Way by the plaza. For the swim reservoir:
1. From I-5 Exit 14 or 19, follow signs into downtown Ashland.
2. For Granite Street Reservoir, take Granite Street south until pavement turns to gravel; reservoir is on the left with parking ahead.
3. For creek play near the playground, use Winburn Way / lower park lots and walk.
4. Swim only if no water-quality advisory is posted.
5. Leave by dusk; pack out picnic trash. Confirm reservoir status after high heat/algae or post-storm runoff.
Plan your visit
Lithia Park works well as a day trip from Ashland. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at The Quarry (about 16 mi away) or browse more Oregon creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Oregon, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via Granite Street in Lithia Park. Parking is limited near the reservoir and along the street; arriving early is advised. The fee status is unknown. The path to Fairy Ponds is an unmarked, uneven trail alongside the creek.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lithia Park Ashland?
Yes at the Granite Street swimming reservoir (and casual creek wading near the playground). There are no lifeguards — supervise children closely.
Is Lithia Park free?
Yes. It is a free City of Ashland park. Special event permits or fire-pit permits are separate.
Where is the Lithia Park swimming hole?
The main designated swim spot is the Granite Street Reservoir at the upper/south end of Lithia Park on Granite Street.
Is the water at Lithia Park clean?
Ashland tests weekly in summer. Check current Swim Guide / parks postings — bacteria can spike after storms.
Are dogs allowed in Lithia Park?
Leashed dogs are common in many park areas — keep them out of designated swim water and follow posted lawn rules.
When is the best time to swim at Lithia Park?
Warm afternoons June–September when testing shows a pass and the reservoir is open. Early mornings are quieter.
Are there bathrooms at the reservoir?
Restrooms are available in Lithia Park; the upper reservoir area typically has facilities near the swim lawn — confirm on arrival.
Is Lithia Park the same as Lithia Springs Florida?
No. This listing is Ashland, Oregon’s city park. Lithia Springs, Florida is a different place.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
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Map & location
Culture & history
Lithia Park reflects Ashland’s blend of natural splendor and cultural richness, with its origins tied to the city’s historical development and artistic heritage.
Conservation
Visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and avoid disrupting natural habitats.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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