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
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.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026