Sure, a day at the local swimming pool is a pretty good way to pass a summer day. However, why would you do that when our region of the Golden State is filled with natural swimming holes? There are hundreds of them just waiting to be uncovered, and one of the most spectacular is just a short hike away. The Oregon Creek Swimming Hole in Northern California is a little-known destination that makes for a wonderful summer adventure. This swimming hole hike is surprisingly easy to find so be sure to plan a day trip ASAP.

Northern California's Yuba River is chock full of amazing swimming holes. It's nearly impossible to name them all. However, one of the most heavenly is known as the Oregon Creek Swimming Hole and it should definitely be on your radar this summer.
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Located on the Middle Yuba River near Camptonville, this pristine northern California swimming hole comes complete with a waterfall and is completely surrounded by stunning forestry and granite slabs. Despite the fact that it's relatively easy to access, the swimming hole feels secluded and retains a hidden gem quality to it.
Camille C/Google
The Oregon Creek Day Use Area has everything you could possibly need for a day filled with summer fun. The main section of the Day Use Area is packed with sandy beaches, picnic areas, and plenty of shade. It can get pretty popular, but there's a region of it that remains a delightful secret.
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To get there, you'll cross the bridge over the Middle Yuba River and pass the main Oregon Creek Day Use Area. Approximately a mile past the bridge, you'll come across a small car pull-out on the side of Highway 49. You can park here and make your way down a dirt path to Oregon Creek.
Mary West/Google
Once you get to the swimming hole, you'll be in total awe. The place is absolutely beautiful. Surrounded by lush foliage, the swimming hole can be found at the bottom of a small waterfall, the Oregon Creek Waterfall. The boulders surrounding it create natural water slides and mini-Jacuzzis.
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A rope swing has even been fastened to a nearby tree branch and is perfect for launching yourself into the pool. Additionally, there is plenty of space to simply sit back and soak while taking in the gorgeous landscape. Not to mention, the water is perfectly refreshing!
Vagelis Vossos/Google
Summer simply isn't complete without a visit to a waterfall swimming hole in northern California, and this is one of our region's best and most pristine swimming holes. There are many to choose from, but the Oregon Creek Swimming Hole in northern California is definitely one of the state's top contenders for the award for the best! Witness its beauty for yourself and you'll see what we mean!
Naneko E/Google

There’s nothing quite like finding the perfect northern California swimming hole! Have you accomplished this specific swimming hole hike? For another must-visit natural swimming hole in northern California, check out Bear Hole, located near Chico, California.

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Oregon Creek Swimming Hole In Northern California

Christy Articola | May 30, 2022

What else is there to do in this area?

Oregon Creek Day Use Area and swimming hole is kind of out there, but you're only 30 minutes from Grass Valley to the south and about 30 minutes from Downieville to the north. Grass Valley is a great place for a weekend getaway. This town is cute and historic and there are lots of great restaurants and shops to check out. Downieville only has a population of about 400, but it's a great place to explore if you want to see the true heart of this part of the state!

Where can I stay when visiting the Oregon Creek swimming hole in northern California?

There are lots of great campgrounds in this part of northern California to try but if you're looking for a really unique accommodation experience, you might consider staying in a houseboat on Bullard's Bar Reservoir! This unique campground-on-the-water is full of houseboats that sleep between 10 and 18 people. You'll love sleeping on the water while enjoying the pine forests that surround the reservoir. There are also lots of fish in the reservoir if you'd like to spend some time fishing, too!

Where else can I go swimming in northern California?

There are dozens of incredible swimming holes in northern California! You could try a different one almost every day of the summer and have new experiences all summer long. Check out our previous article with seven remarkable swimming holes to help you get started.

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Featured Addresses
Oregon Creek Day Use Area, CA-49, Camptonville, CA 95922, USA