Natural swimming hole
Opal Pool, Opal Creek
Creek · Oregon
About this swimming hole
The jewel of Opal Creek Wilderness, where the creek pours through a small emerald chasm into strikingly clear pools. Reaching it requires a few miles of hiking through old-growth forest past Jawbone Flats, which keeps the scene wilder than most valley swim spots.
Good to know
| Water type | Creek |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50-55 in summer |
| Depth | deep emerald chasm pools |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | NW Forest Pass at trailhead |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | daylight hours |
| Parking | trailhead lot; very busy; road rough |
| County | Marion County |
| Nearest town | Mehama |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; icy water; cliff-jumping hazards; remote with no services |
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Opal Pool, Opal Creek?
Yes — Opal Pool, Opal Creek is listed as a natural swimming spot in Oregon. Reported water temperature: 50-55 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; icy water; cliff-jumping hazards; remote with no services. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Opal Pool, Opal Creek require reservations?
No reservations are required at Opal Pool, Opal Creek based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Opal Pool, Opal Creek?
Reported fee info: NW Forest Pass at trailhead. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Opal Pool, Opal Creek?
The best season is typically July-September.