11 Little Known Swimming Spots In Northern California That Will Make Your Summer Awesome
×
Jill S.
Author
Summer is practically here. If you’re looking for some neat places to swim that aren’t your local — and likely crowded — pool, then these lesser-known swimming spots in Northern California are perfect. Take the day off, gather the family and dive into an unforgettable day of fun in the sun.
Gualala is a tiny town completely surrounded by breathtaking beauty that offers plenty of great places to swim and play. Brave the chilly water of the Pacific Ocean or dip into the turquoise water of the Gualala River. The unique coastal and forested climate here is really something else. It's the meeting of two unlikely landscapes that makes Northern California such an adventurer's playground. Learn More Here.
Have you ever gone for a swim in an underground cavern? The water flows through a hollow cave, and you can swim or float the short distance from one end to the other. It’s a really great way to cool off in the hot foothill heat. Learn More Here.
Advertisement
The McCloud River skirts around the Mount Shasta area and is a beauty to behold. There are 3 waterfalls, the upper, middle and lower, that each make great swimming holes in the summer months. The lower that is probably the most accessible and popular place to cliff jump and swim. The Lower McCloud falls is loved by visitors and locals alike. On a hot day, many people gather here to cool off and take a breather. Learn More Here.
Advertisement
For something completely different and out of the ordinary, visit the Sierra Hot Spring in Sierraville. It’s a lovely facility that channels the naturally warm water of a nearby spring into pools and tubs. The site of the Sierra Hot Springs has had some form of resort here for the last 150 years. You can chose to relax in the cooler, but still warm, larger pool or hop in one of the hotter tubs. Learn More Here.
Shasta Lake is an amazing vacation destination here in Northern California, but few people have heard of the natural water slide located just a 20 minute hike from the lake’s shores. Known as Little Backbone Creek, this gorgeous swimming hole should be on everyone’s bucket list.The hike in only takes about 20 minutes. Learn More Here.
Related Stories
There's Nothing Better Than Northern California's Natural Lazy River On A Summer's Day
The Northern California Beach That Is Unlike Any Other In The World
This Northern California Lake Is An Outdoor Lover's Paradise
Meek’s Bay is a stunning beach with the whitest, most pristine sand. It will quickly become your new favorite spot along the lake. The lake is known for its deep blue water that looks turquoise in some of the more shallow areas.This beach and the surrounding resort and campground offer endless opportunities for biking, swimming, hiking, and boating. Learn More Here.
Orr Hot Springs is a peaceful resort tucked in the rolling hills of the Mendocino Coastal Range. The pool is an area where springs flourish on 27 acres at the headwaters of Big River. The fresh and rejuvenating waters of the hillside feed the pool. There are several small springs, unaltered by chemicals, that flow directly into the pool.Learn More Here.
Castle Lake is located within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and it is a great place to spend a few nights camping or just visit for an afternoon. In addition to swimming, kayaking, row boating and rafting are also popular activities at Castle Lake.Learn More Here.
Advertisement
Other parts of the country have the oldest bookstore, the oldest airport, the oldest who knows what, but here in Northern California, we have the oldest lake in North America. Pretty cool, right? I bet you didn’t know Clear Lake is nearly a half million years old! And that’s not the only interesting thing about it.
Clear Lake is about 68 square miles, making it one of the largest lakes in the state... and the most fun to swim in! Learn More Here.
Clear Lake is about 68 square miles, making it one of the largest lakes in the state... and the most fun to swim in! Learn More Here.
High in the remote Lassen Volcanic National Park is the bluest lake you will ever see. It’s fed by snow run off and is located in one of the most pristine national parks out west. Lake Helen’s sparkling blue waters are definitely a must see for any Northern California.
It's waters are chilly, but so beautiful you will be hard pressed not to jump in. Learn More Here.
Donner Lake is a magical mountain retreat during all four seasons of the year. It’s a cozy and comfortable lakeside community that has a nostalgic mountain town vibe. It's also particularly fun in the summer, when you can lounge for hours on the docks and take in the mountain air. Learn More Here.
Have you been to any of these places before? What other little-known swimming spots in Northern California would you recommend? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.