Washougal River Swimming Holes
Swimming hole in Vancouver, Washington · River
Washougal River Swimming Holes is a river swimming hole. It is near Vancouver, Washington. Access is free. Best season: Summer (June to August) offers the best conditions for swimming, with warm weather and manageable river flows.
Typical season: Summer (June to August) offers the best conditions for swimming, with warm weather and manageable river flows
About Washougal River Swimming Holes
Washougal River Swimming Holes sits in Washington. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities.
Just a short drive from the towns of Washougal and Vancouver, these unofficial . The river winds through a corridor of towering Douglas firs and vine maples, its banks alternating between smooth basalt shelves, gravel bars, and stretches of soft sand. Each bend revealing something worth exploring. The Washougal River corridor feels genuinely wild, even though civilization is never far away. You'll drive through a canopy of green so dense it feels like a tunnel, emerging at pull-offs where the river sparkles in shafts of filtered light.
The geological character here is striking. Basalt rock formations carved by ancient volcanic activity create natural pools and ledges that beg to be jumped from. Wildlife is a constant companion; keep your eyes open for kingfishers, herons, and the occasional river otter working the current. The Sandy area is the most accessible. True to its name, it features a sandy beach that's welcoming for families and younger swimmers, with room to spread out towels and wade in gradually. Three Mile offers a more secluded, rugged character with fewer amenities and a more adventurous atmosphere.
Treat Washougal River Swimming Holes as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- River
- Water body
- Washougal River
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Vancouver
- State
- Washington
- Coordinates
- 45.62337, -122.33384
- Best season
- Summer (June to August) offers the best conditions for swimming, with warm weather and manageable river flows. Spring brings higher water levels, a strong choice for photography. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, while winter provides a serene, quiet atmosphere.
- Access difficulty
- Easy to moderate. Sandy is highly accessible with ample parking and facilities, while Three Mile requires a short drive and a parking fee, with fewer amenities available.
- Parking
- Roadside / pull-off
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- Developed camping at Battleground S. P. North of Washougal and at Dougan Falls Campground (see below).
- Land manager
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
- Activities
- Swimming, jumping
- Facilities
- Sandy features picnic tables, restrooms, and ample parking, while Three Mile offers a more rustic experience with limited amenities and a small parking fee.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer (June to August) offers the best conditions for swimming, with warm weather and manageable river flows. Spring brings higher water levels, a strong choice for photography. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, while winter provides a serene, quiet atmosphere.
- Access Easy to moderate. Sandy is highly accessible with ample parking and facilities, while Three Mile requires a short drive and a parking fee, with fewer amenities available.
- Facilities Sandy features picnic tables, restrooms, and ample parking, while Three Mile offers a more rustic experience with limited amenities and a small parking fee.
- Camping nearby Developed camping at Battleground S. P. North of Washougal and at Dougan Falls Campground (see below).
Highlights & features
- Crystal-clear waters for swimming
- Picturesque natural surroundings
- Family-friendly amenities at Sandy
- Secluded spots like Three Mile
- Opportunities for wildlife observation
- Diverse swimming spots ranging from sandy beaches to secluded rocky areas
- Rich historical and cultural significance tied to Indigenous heritage
- Stunning geological formations and basalt rock pools
How to get there
Washougal River Swimming Holes lies in Washington near Vancouver, Washougal. 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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Washougal River Location
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Washougal, Washington (near Vancouver, WA) Sandy ) Description
The Sandy . It can become very crowded on warm weekends, and parking may be limited during peak times. Driving Directions:
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From downtown Washougal, head north on Washougal River Road.
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Cross over the Washougal River.
After crossing the river, turn left onto Shepard Road. Continue on Shepard Road for about 0.7 miles. The park will be on your left.
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Parking Information
Parking is available at the park, but spaces can fill quickly on weekends. Consider arriving early to secure a spot. Coordinates for GPS: Latitude: 45.58881 Longitude: -122.36679 Google Maps Link Three Mile ) Description: Located near the 3-mile marker on Washougal River Road, this . It is surrounded by wooded scenery and offers excellent . Parking is available for a fee. Driving Directions:
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From downtown Washougal, head north on Washougal River Road.
Continue driving until you reach the 3-mile marker on Washougal River Road. The .
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Parking Information
This location requires a paid parking pass. Be prepared to pay upon arrival. Coordinates for GPS: Latitude: 45.58642 Longitude: -122.35360 Google Maps Link
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Helpful Tips
Both . Plan around peak times to avoid crowds. Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and any necessary supplies, as amenities may be limited beyond restrooms and picnic areas. Respect local regulations, including parking fees and wildlife area rules, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Plan your visit
Washougal River Swimming Holes works well as a day trip from Vancouver or Washougal. The Washougal River . Plan to arrive early on summer weekends. Combine the swim with camping at Cowlitz River or browse more Washington river spots in our directory. For the full list in Washington, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Both sites are unofficial swimming areas. The Sandy Hole has free parking that fills quickly on weekends. The Three Mile Hole requires a paid parking pass as it is part of a Fish and Wildlife area. Facilities are limited; restrooms are available at Sandy. No entrance fee for the water access itself.
Top picks for this trip
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What to pack for Washougal River Swimming Holes
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 Washougal River Swimming Holes?
Yes. Washougal River Swimming Holes near Vancouver and Washougal in WA is a river swimming spot on Washougal River. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Washougal River Swimming Holes 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 Washougal River Swimming Holes?
Washougal River Swimming Holes is in WA within day-trip range of Vancouver and Washougal. 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
The Washougal River holds deep significance for local Indigenous peoples, whose lives were intertwined with its waters. The name 'Washougal' reflects its historical identity as a place of rushing waters.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and staying on designated trails to minimize environmental impact.
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.