Natural swimming hole
Middle McCloud Falls
Waterfall · 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
Middle McCloud Falls is the tallest and widest of the trio, a 40-foot curtain of water dropping into a basalt bowl on the upper McCloud River. A quarter-mile path from the overlook descends to the pool, where scrambling over boulders rewards swimmers with a dramatic setting. It draws fewer crowds than Lower Falls despite being the most photogenic of the three.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50s-60s even in summer |
| Depth | deep pool at base |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Middle Falls parking area off the McCloud River loop road |
| Amenities | overlook, vault toilets |
| County | Siskiyou County |
| Nearest town | McCloud |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; cold spring-fed water; boulder scrambling required |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Middle McCloud Falls?
Yes — Middle McCloud Falls is listed as a natural swimming spot in California. Reported water temperature: 50s-60s even in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; cold spring-fed water; boulder scrambling required. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Middle McCloud Falls require reservations?
No reservations are required at Middle McCloud Falls based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Middle McCloud Falls?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Middle McCloud Falls?
The best season is typically July-September.