Swimming in Del Norte County

Crescent City

Fred Endert Municipal Swimming Pool
1000 Play Street
Crescent City, CA 95531
707-464-9503

At Beachfront Park, this indoor public pool is open year round.

Smith River

The wild and scenic emerald green Smith River is one of the last free-flowing river systems in America. Pristine and crystal clear, the river offers superb swimming holes in the summer.

South Fork

The best swimming holes are far upstream, accessible via South Fork Road. There are frequent turnouts on this road, with primitive steep trails providing access to swimming holes. The best swimming hole is located at the second bridge.

• McClendon Ford Trail - An easy 2-mile hike through a Douglas fir forest. This is perfect for hot days, as there is a secluded swimming hole on the Smith River. Drive 14 miles on South Fork Road and turn right at an unsigned junction. Travel 3 miles to a sign indicating the trailhead and turn left, continuing for 2 miles.

Middle Fork

There are several good swimming holes just off Highway 199. The best spots on the Middle Fork are:

• The Forks - the confluence of the Middle Fork and South Fork features a deep, calm swimming hole available in the summer. Access is just downstream from the bridge north of Hiouchi.
• Panther Flat picnic area
• Mary Adams Peacock Bridge