Natural swimming hole
Bass Lake
Lake · California
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Bass Lake is a freshwater lake tucked behind the coastal bluffs of Point Reyes National Seashore, reached by a 2.5-mile hike along the Coast Trail from Palomarin. On summer days swimmers lounge on inflatable rafts and launch off the rope swing into the tree-shaded water. The ocean-view hike in is half the reward.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 60s in summer |
| Depth | shallow lake; rope swing area |
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Palomarin trailhead lot; fills on summer weekends |
| Amenities | vault toilets |
| County | Marin County |
| Nearest town | Bolinas |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; rope swing at own risk; stay on trail through the ranch lands |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Bass Lake?
Yes — Bass Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in California. Reported water temperature: 60s in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; rope swing at own risk; stay on trail through the ranch lands. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Bass Lake require reservations?
No reservations are required at Bass Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Bass Lake?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Bass Lake?
The best season is typically June-September.