Natural swimming hole
Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River)
River · California
About this swimming hole
The Garden of Eden is a beloved swimming hole on the San Lorenzo River inside Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, reached by a mile-long walk along the old railroad tracks from Highway 9. Clear blue-green pools sit between mossy boulders and a small sandy beach, all under towering redwoods. It has been a Santa Cruz summer institution for generations — no dogs, no diving, pack out everything.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 60s in summer |
| Depth | clear pools; not too deep |
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | $10 state park day use |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | sunrise-sunset |
| Parking | roadside pullouts along Highway 9 near the Ox Trail; fills fast |
| County | Santa Cruz County |
| Nearest town | Felton |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; no diving; slippery rocks; crowds and litter on summer weekends |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River)?
Yes — Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River) is listed as a natural swimming spot in California. Reported water temperature: 60s in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; no diving; slippery rocks; crowds and litter on summer weekends. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River) require reservations?
No reservations are required at Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River) based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River)?
Reported fee info: $10 state park day use. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Garden of Eden (San Lorenzo River)?
The best season is typically June-September.